Are IT Testers Still Needed? Requirements, Career Path, and Salaries

It is commonly accepted that IT Tester is one of the few IT professions in which IT knowledge is not required. Is this really the case? Who exactly is an IT Tester and what are their responsibilities? Check whether you have a chance to be employed in this position and what earnings you can expect.

Who is an IT Tester? What are their responsibilities? 

An IT Tester is a specialist responsible for checking and evaluating the quality of software before it is released to the market. Their main task is to detect errors, inconsistencies, and ensure that the software works as expected by users. 

Main Tasks of an IT Tester: 

• Conducting tests on various types of software, such as mobile applications, websites, and desktop software, to ensure they meet quality standards. 

• Reporting any detected errors so that developers can fix them, documenting test results and progress. 

• Verifying that errors have been corrected and retesting to ensure the software works correctly. 

• Testing usability and user experience to ensure the software is intuitive and easy to use. 

• Testing software performance to ensure it operates correctly under heavy load. 

Manual vs. automated testers: 

• Manual Tester: Executes predefined test scenarios manually, similar to how a real user would. While programming knowledge is not strictly necessary, it can be helpful. 

• Automated Tester: Writes scripts to automate tasks performed by manual testers, requiring programming skills and knowledge of automated testing tools. 

Who can become an IT Tester?

Employers look for certain traits and skills in IT Testers, such as attention to detail, interest in technology, and willingness to learn. English proficiency and the ability to read technical documentation are beneficial. Experience with tools like Jira or Confluence and a basic ISTQB certification can also be advantageous. 

Is IT testing a future-proof profession? 

Despite advancements in AI and automation, human testers remain crucial for ensuring software quality, especially in areas like user experience. The role of IT Testers is still essential in many industries. 

Where can an IT Tester find employment? 

IT Teters can find jobs in various sectors, including finance, new technologies, telecommunications, gaming, and banking. They are needed in any company with an IT department, participating in the introduction of new solutions and mobile applications. 

 What Range of Salaries Can an IT Tester Expect? 

Salaries for IT testers vary based on experience, location, and type of employment. Junior testers can expect around 8000 PLN, while more experienced specialists can earn between 13,000 and 16,000 PLN. Senior testers’ compensations is usually contained within 19,000 and 20,000 PLN range. Manual testers typically earn between 4000 and 8000 PLN, while automated testers can earn between 6000 and 12,000 PLN. 

Career Development Opportunities for IT Testers

 IT Testers can advance to managerial positions, such as test department manager or lead tester. They can also specialize in areas like mobile software testing, IT security testing, or performance testing, leading to higher-paying roles and more career opportunities. 

Summary  

An IT Tester’s job is to thoroughly check software for any errors and issues before it reaches users. They can work manually or create scripts for automated testing. IT Testers can find employment both domestically and internationally, often working remotely. The career offers a clear development path and competitive salaries.