It is quite common knowledge that software testing plays an important role throughout the software development lifecycle. Testing procedures are inherently bug-finding and bug-fixing. However, the rapid advancement of DevOps and Agile methodologies have necessitated software testers to improve their skills continuously. In other words, testing has become a crucial skill in today’s fast-paced technology world, where rapid development and continuous deployment have become increasingly complicated.
Testers, therefore, need advanced technical skills. They also need to learn new things to stay current continuously. A competent tester should be able to perform various tasks, such as probing requirements, understanding product details, and communicating with the client.
To secure the most coveted testing positions, you must possess the appropriate skills. The following article covers ten essential skills you need to earn the best QA jobs in USA.
10 Must-Have Testing Skills To Grab The Best Testing Jobs In USA
Software testers need specific technical skills to obtain a top-notch testing job. From Agile and DevOps to automation, dive into the following skills to become the best tester.
1. DevOps & Agile methodology
The iterative and collaborative nature of Agile and DevOps have made them indispensable elements of software development today. The constant pressure to meet deadlines and collaborate with cross-functional teams has compelled testers to acquire Agile and DevOps skills.
DevOps methodologies help cross-functional teams work through the development phase, analysis, and Quality Assurance to develop a high yielding end-product faster. Similarly, being hands-on with Agile methodology can help speed up your test projects. Using these methodologies, teams can handle phase-wise development of applications and contribute to continuous releases by eliminating role rigidity.
Also Check: Top 10 MNC Companies in India For a Brighter Future
2. Automation Testing
Manual testing is a daunting task for highly complex applications and those that come with several integrations. Testing for browser compatibility, database management, integration layers, and performance is best accomplished with automated testing tools that offer unmatched accuracy.
The logic and technicalities inherent in these testing methods contribute to their accuracy. Furthermore, automated testing tools support customized testing plans tailored to specific requirements in a fast and easy manner.
3.The SDLC
Contrary to popular belief, an SDLC is not a project management method but a framework that defines activities that must be performed at each stage of software development.
Testers need to be familiar with SDLC to understand the application development stages better and plan their testing cycles accordingly. Sound knowledge of the SDLC will enable them to predict the complexity of the application well in advance and plan their testing strategy.
4. Web and mobile technologies
Understanding web technologies and mobile applications are crucial for testers. Testers can use the knowledge of these technologies to determine a suitable testing approach based on their build and scalability features.
Additionally, testers must remain current with all advancements in web and mobile technologies to stay on top of application architecture and deliver results effectively.
5. Bug reporting techniques
Bug reporting is the core responsibility of the software tester. Hence, it goes without saying that testers must possess knowledge of various testing techniques and tools. Testers should also be proficient in all types of testing, including white-box, black-box, system, unit, and other prominent testing concepts, regardless of the application’s domain.
Knowledge of different bug reporting tools like automation tools, test management tools, GUI testing tools, or bug tracking tools is an advantage for testers. Having these skills allows testers to do testing jobs across a wide range of industries, regardless of the complexity and diverse requirements of the projects.
6. Analytical and decision-making skills
Testing requires good decision-making and analytical skills. This allows testers to break down applications into smaller components and to understand them better. Consequently, they can design tests more efficiently. A tester’s logical judgment is vital when testing as an end-user. A tester with this skill can think of all possible outcomes.
- Management skills
While technical aspects of testing are the most talked-about skills, project and time management skills play an equal role in making a tester’s job more efficient. While testing is their core competency, management skills become crucial for testers in the long run. An adequate understanding of business processes and other details can foster better problem-solving skills in testers.
- Planning and documentation skills
Test planning and documentation are core skills essential for testing jobs in USA. Proper documentation helps testers track test processes and changes in requirements. It also helps to trace deviations in the project and enables detailed error logging and reporting. Such documentation can help testers and enterprises to plan and allocate budgets and resources for a project.
- Communication skills
Testing requires good communication skills since testers are required to write, listen, and speak well with stakeholders about the progress of a project. This includes communicating issues to the developers, updating the status to clients, converting requirement specs into test cases, informing requirements to the team, and preparing reports for management.
10. Reporting
Reporting is the final and one of the most important skills the testers must possess. These skills are crucial in preparing status reports to stakeholders, sharing information to the management team about the test executed, releasing timelines, or informing them about bugs encountered.
The testing process runs throughout the entire software development life cycle, from development to post-production.
Thus, testers must be continuously trained with skills and knowledge essential for the job. Make sure you have the skills mentioned in this post to land the best QA jobs in USA. Stay tuned to Careeradvice4u if you wish to explore more such career options in the IT sector.
Leave a Reply