Job Description
The network software testing professional has to ensure that all the systems are functioning as required. He/she is also responsible for using the correct network testing software, devising the testing procedure, using appropriate programming methods etc to test the functionality of the system. The results derived are analyzed by the tester; then, he/she recommends that action to be implemented in order to correct the anomalies and make the necessary changes.
Requirements
Education: A bachelor's degree is desired; if not required, in disciplines such as information technology, computer science or related subjects.
Experience: Most employers will require two to five years of network software testing experience; the tester will also need to be well versed with the intricacies of designing test plans and writing test cases. Experience in using network testing software is also required.
Skill set: Apart from technical expertise, network software testing professionals also have to be savvy communicators because they are required to communicate with the external clients as well as the programming team.
Additional responsibilities: Apart from testing network software etc, many testers are also expected to take on additional responsibilities related to the functionality and usability of the system. So, they may also have to get involved in the software or system design process from the very beginning to its conclusion.
Remuneration
The average salary of software testing professionals is in the range of $70,000 to $74,000 per annum.
How to get the job of a systems tester?
If you are interested in software or system testing jobs, start by enrolling in an educational institution that offers courses on computer programming and information technology. You can start with a computer class at the freshmen level and then build your way up the ladder with a focus on subjects such as computer engineering, programming, defect tracking etc. You may also want to take additional classes in network communication, TCP/IP, C/C++, Java programming and stack processing. A four year degree; although not required, will put you in the front row of candidates desirous of procuring software testing jobs
Gather all the information that you can about the network testing software being used by industry experts such as Win Runner, Clear Quest, Test Director and Quick Test Pro. You can hone your skills further by performing enhancement and maintenance jobs on IT systems that are automated.
You will also need to learn the proper handling of electronic testing equipment such as spectrum analyzers, power meters, noise figure, vector network analyzers and oscilloscopes. You will need to master the techniques required for working on wired as well as wireless networks.
Start collecting valuable experience by applying for a job n the computer science department of your college or a help desk at the campus. Even if you have a degree from a reputable educational institution, you will still need proven software testing experience to get a job.
Broaden your range of contacts by attending computer related seminars and conferences where you may get the opportunity to hobnob with industry experts and insiders. Make it a point to join email lists so that you can get access to various engineering events such as conferences on systems networking practices and seminars on the future of software testing. There are several websites that offer information on such events.
With a four year degree and relevant experience in hand, you are now ready to write your resume. Make sure that you high light the fact that you are proficient in computer programming. Since software testing jobs entail communication with internal and external clients and comprehending their needs, you should also demonstrate that you have exceptional interpersonal and communication skills and that you are a team player. A wide array of service related skills will add weight to your resume.
Additional qualification that can make you stand out
As a software tester, you will not only be responsible for debugging network systems and software but also you will need to have relevant experience in designing software tests and documenting them. If you would like your skill sets to stand out, couple these qualifications with programming knowledge in at least 2 to 3 languages and Windows NT.
Since you will need to be an excellent communicator, any courses or training sessions that you may have attended on interpersonal skills, people management and team building will also help greatly.
