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Meet our QA Tester community
Braintrust is a user-owned talent platform created by and for the world’s top talent. This includes a talented network of experienced QA Testers available for hire.
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Aksam Ali Khalid
- REST API
- Selenium
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- Java
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Arima Sharma
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How to hire Top QA Testers
Overview
Hiring a QA tester (quality assurance tester) or quality assurance engineer involves seeking a professional who has the right balance of technical skills, analytical mindset, communication abilities, adaptability, and a passion for delivering high-quality products. The hiring process often involves a thorough review of the candidate's skills and experiences, behavioral and technical interviews, and sometimes, practical assessments to gauge the tester's capabilities.
At a startup, a QA tester often wears multiple hats due to the small team size. In this setting, they might be involved in all stages of the product lifecycle, from design discussions to post-release support. Therefore, a QA tester at a startup needs to be adaptable, proactive, and comfortable in a fast-paced and ever-changing environment. They should also be comfortable with both manual and automated testing, as resources for specialized roles might be limited.
At a larger company, QA testers usually have more defined roles within a larger team, focusing on specific areas like manual testing, automation, performance testing, etc. The structure is typically more hierarchical, with a more significant focus on processes and protocols. Testers in larger companies might need to have deeper specialized skills and might work on more complex systems.
Regarding employment type, full-time QA testers are typically hired for long-term, ongoing projects. They become part of the team, understanding the product inside and out over time, which can provide more consistent testing. However, they also represent a fixed cost and a long-term commitment for the company.
On the other hand, hourly or contract-based QA testers can be a flexible option, particularly suitable for short-term projects, busy periods, or when a company needs to quickly scale its testing capacity. They are paid for the actual hours they work, which can save costs when testing requirements fluctuate. However, the potential downside can be their unfamiliarity with the system or product, which might affect the quality of testing initially.
Regardless of the company size or employment type, the most critical factor when hiring a QA tester is to ensure that they have the necessary skills and attitude to ensure the delivery of a high-quality product. The right QA tester can significantly contribute to improving the product's quality, enhancing user satisfaction, and ultimately, contributing to the company's success.Technical Skills
A QA tester must have a strong understanding of various aspects of software development and testing lifecycle. This includes a solid grasp of coding in programming languages like Java, Python, or C++. Some testers might also need experience with HTML, CSS, or JavaScript if they're testing web applications as well as app testing on android or ios mobile apps. A tester should also be familiar with automation tools such as Selenium, Postman, or JMeter, which help automate the testing process and improve efficiency. Understanding of bug tracking systems such as Jira or Bugzilla is essential as they're commonly used to manage and report software defects. A knowledge of SQL and databases can help testers probe deeper into issues and gain more context. Additionally, they should understand different operating systems, platforms, and browsers to simulate user scenarios effectively. In the modern cloud-based environment, understanding technologies like Docker and Kubernetes can also be beneficial.
Understanding of Different Testing Methods
A proficient QA tester needs to have a good grasp of different types of testing methodologies. Functional testing, which ensures each function of the software application operates in conformance with the requirement specification, is the bedrock of testing. System testing, where the entire system is tested as per the requirements, is another vital approach. Regression testing is necessary to confirm that a recent code change has not adversely affected existing features. They should also understand different testing strategies like black box (testing without knowledge of the internal workings), white box (testing with knowledge of the internal structure), and grey box testing (a combination of both). Automated testing skills are becoming increasingly critical as it allows for quicker, more efficient, and repeatable tests; thus, understanding tools like Selenium, Appium, or Test Complete can be highly beneficial.
Analytical Skills
In the context of a QA tester, strong analytical skills refer to the ability to break down complex software systems into smaller, manageable components, scrutinize each part meticulously, and understand their interconnectivity. This ability to analyze and understand software allows testers to predict potential problem areas or the impact of a particular change, often before they become an issue. Analytical skills also extend to understanding user behavior and creating test cases that simulate all possible user actions and sequences. With the rise of data-driven decision making, having a basic understanding of data analysis tools like SQL, Excel, or even more advanced tools like Python's pandas library or R, can help testers make more informed decisions and provide better insights.
Detail-Oriented
Being detail-oriented means having the capacity to focus on every minute aspect of a situation or problem. For a QA tester, this trait is critical because even the smallest detail in a software application or web apps could be the difference between it working as expected or causing a system failure. It's not just about finding bugs and errors, but also about documenting them in a way that they're understandable and replicable by developers. This involves capturing the right screenshots, logs, and steps to reproduce the issue. It also requires an understanding of how different software elements work together so that they can recognize when something isn't working as it should, even if it's not immediately obvious. This trait becomes even more crucial when performing tasks like usability testing, where attention to the finer aspects of the user interface and user experience is required. Being detail-oriented, in essence, is about ensuring that nothing falls through the cracks.
Communication Skills
In the role of a QA tester, communication skills are indispensable. Testers need to document and report their findings clearly and concisely to facilitate quick and effective bug fixes. This includes the ability to describe technical details in a way that is easy for others to understand. They must be able to communicate the specific steps needed to replicate a bug, provide accurate descriptions, and often include visual aids such as screenshots or video captures. Proficiency in tools like Jira for bug tracking, Confluence for documentation, or Slack for team communication can be advantageous. A tester’s communication skills are not just required for reporting issues, but also for coordinating with multiple team members and stakeholders, including developers, project managers, and sometimes even clients. They also need to provide constructive feedback and present alternative solutions, demanding both diplomacy and assertiveness.
Problem-Solving Skills
Problem-solving is at the core of a QA tester's role. When a bug is discovered, it's not enough to just report it. Testers should also be able to troubleshoot issues, identify their root causes, and provide or suggest potential solutions. This requires a deep understanding of the software or system they're testing and often an understanding of the codebase. Knowledge of debugging tools like Chrome DevTools for web applications or log analysis tools can be useful. Testers should be able to think outside the box and anticipate potential user behavior and system responses. They should also be adept at creating effective test scenarios and strategies to ensure comprehensive coverage. Ultimately, problem-solving for a QA tester revolves around how to improve the product's quality and user experience.
Adaptability
In the dynamic world of software development, adaptability is a crucial skill. Projects, requirements, and technologies can change rapidly. A good QA tester should have the flexibility to deal with these changes effectively. This might involve learning new technologies, adapting to a new project management methodology, or adjusting to an updated set of project requirements. It also involves the ability to shift focus quickly in response to urgent issues or bugs that need immediate attention. As software development increasingly embraces Agile and DevOps methodologies, testers must be comfortable with these practices, including continuous integration, continuous delivery, and rapid iteration. Testing tools like Jenkins for continuous integration, Docker for creating consistent development environments, and knowledge of Git for version control could be beneficial.
Passion for Quality
Ultimately, the most successful QA testers are those who are passionate about ensuring a high-quality product. This passion drives them to dig deeper, test thoroughly, and not stop until they are satisfied that all potential issues have been identified and addressed. A passion for quality also means staying updated with the latest testing methodologies, tools, and industry trends, thereby contributing to improving the organization's overall quality assurance process. They should not shy away from providing feedback or suggesting improvements, even if it means challenging developers or managers. Certifications like the ISTQB (International Software Testing Qualifications Board) can demonstrate a commitment to the profession and to quality. Above all, they should take pride in their role as the last line of defense before a product reaches the customer's hands.
Expert Resources for Hiring QA Testers
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to hire a QA Tester?
The cost to hire a QA tester can vary significantly depending on their years of experience, skills, location, and whether they are a full-time employee, part-time, or a freelancer. As a full-time employee, apart from their base salary, which according to Glassdoor ranges on average around $55,030 annually in the U.S., other costs include benefits like health insurance, paid leave, and retirement contributions. You might also need to consider equipment costs, training, and onboarding costs. For freelancers or contractors, costs can fluctuate based on their hourly rate and the project's duration. Always keep in mind these figures can change with time and the market demand.
Where can I hire a QA Tester?
There are several avenues to hire a QA tester. Job posting sites like LinkedIn, Indeed, and Glassdoor can help you reach a broad audience of potential candidates. Specialized tech job sites like Dice or Stack Overflow can also be helpful. If you're open to remote or contract work, platforms like Braintrust cater to freelance QA professionals. Networking in industry-specific groups or at events can also be fruitful. Don't forget to utilize your company's social networks for potential referrals, as great candidates can often come from your employees' networks.
How do I recruit a QA Tester?
Recruiting a QA tester starts with a clear and detailed QA tester job description outlining the responsibilities, skills, and experience required. Once the job is posted on relevant channels, the received applications are then screened, usually by HR, followed by an initial interview. Candidates who pass this stage then often take a technical interview with a senior tester or QA lead. Some companies include practical tests or assessments as part of their development process. After all rounds, successful candidates are given job offers. A robust recruitment process helps ensure that you're hiring a competent, well-qualified tester who will fit well with your QA team.
What is the salary of a QA tester?
The salary of a QA tester can vary significantly depending on the country, the tester's level of experience, the complexity of the product, and the industry in which they're working. According to Glassdoor, in the United States, the average salary for a QA tester is around $55,030 per year, but this can go up to $80,000 or more for experienced QA testers or those working in high-demand industries across time zones. For the most accurate and current information, please refer to a reliable job market data source.
Does QA require coding?
Whether or not QA requires coding depends on the type of QA testing being done. Manual testers may not need in-depth coding skills but should understand software development principles for test automation and creating test plans and testing services. On the other hand, automation testers often need to write scripts and code, so a solid understanding of programming languages like Java, Python, or C# is essential. Furthermore, for white box testing (where you test the internal workings of a mobile application), an understanding of code is crucial. Understanding code can also help QA testers in debugging, writing more detailed bug reports, and communicating effectively with developers.
Where do QA testers work?
QA testers work across a variety of industries—anywhere software is developed. This includes tech companies, software service agencies, video game companies, financial institutions, healthcare organizations, and more. They can be found in startups, where they may handle a broad range of integration testing tasks, to be in-house at large corporations, where they might specialize in a specific type of testing. With the rise of remote work, many QA testers also work from home or from any location, providing they have a good internet connection and the necessary equipment. They are a critical part of any software QA development team, whether in-office or remote.
How much does a QA Tester charge per hour?
The hourly rate for a QA tester can vary widely depending on factors such as their expertise, the complexity of the project, location, and whether they're freelancers or agency contractors. A QA tester in the U.S. could charge anywhere from $20 to $100 per hour. Offshore testers might charge lower rates. Remember, while cost is an important factor, it's essential to consider the tester's skills, experience, and the value they bring to ensure high-quality results. Always refer to the current rates in reliable market data sources for an accurate understanding.
Is QA tester an easy job?
The role of a QA tester is often complex and requires a unique set of skills. It's not merely about finding bugs; it's about understanding software applications, breaking them down, and finding potential weak points. It involves deep analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, keen attention to detail, and effective communication. QA testers also need to keep up with changing technologies and methodologies in software development. If you hire QA testers or hire QA engineers or hire software test engineers, they often have to work under tight deadlines, especially in agile development environments. The job can be both mentally and sometimes emotionally challenging, as QA testers often act as gatekeepers of software product quality amidst pressures to release products quickly.
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