A QA tester is a professional responsible for maintaining the quality of software by running tests to identify bugs, performance issues, or non-compliance with requirements. They work with developers to fix issues, create reports, and help make sure the software meets user needs before it’s released.
What are the duties of a QA tester?
A QA Tester ensures the quality of software by verifying that it functions as expected and remains stable, even when faced with unexpected or invalid inputs. Their role is to guarantee that the software meets user expectations and handles all scenarios without failure.
Key responsibilities include:
- Running Tests on New Software: Conduct tests on software to ensure it meets specifications, identify issues, and run debugging programs to fix them. Retest after fixes to ensure readiness for release.
- Recording Defects and Creating Reports: List flaws, generate detailed reports, and maintain logs to track issues and their resolutions for future reference.
- Assisting Developers in Design Processes: Work together with developers early in the design phase to identify likely problems, assess risks, and address issues before software completion.
What are the skills of a QA tester?
A skilled QA tester combines essential technical and soft skills to ensure software quality. Key technical skills include understanding the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC), creating and executing test cases, and proficiency in both manual and automated testing tools like Selenium and JIRA. Basic programming knowledge and the ability to use bug-tracking systems are also important. On the soft skills side, strong attention to detail, effective communication, and problem-solving abilities are crucial. These skills enable QA testers to identify issues accurately, collaborate with development teams, and contribute to delivering reliable and high-quality software products.
