A QA (quality assurance) engineer typically works in developing, prototyping, improving processes or analysis of an environment, service or product. Because this profession involves testing in a variety of areas, most QA engineers require strong academic abilities in mathematics and science and at least an associate's degree, but sometimes a bachelor's degree. Depending on the field, additional training and certification may be required.
Computer Techology
Quality assurance professionals in the computer technology field typically work with computer systems or software. They test and evaluate systems or software for usability. Because systems and software are so complex, quality assurance personnel will use a variety of test procedures to evaluate quality. Quality evaluation in computer technology can include speed, functional abilities, ease of use and in some cases the product or systems ability to withstand certain environments.
Computer and software quality assurance professionals are required to have a bachelor's degree in a computer-related discipline. Average salaries can range from $55,000 a year to $85,000 a year depending on the complexity of the systems or software they're analyzing.
Engineering Fields
Quality assurance in engineering professions include inspecting products and processes, conducting tests and collecting data to improve quality. QA professionals in engineering may assist in product design, development or production in a manufacturing environment. They also may be required to conduct experiments to test the durability of a product. In an engineering profession, most quality assurance personnel will have at least an associate's degree in engineering technology. Average salaries can range from $31,000 a year to $55,000 a year depending on experience and environment.
Scientific Fields
Quality assurance professionals in the scientific industry usually use mathematical and scientific theories to solve problems in development and research. In a manufacturing environment, they monitor processes to ensure quality of products. Scientific quality assurance personnel keep careful records, and continue research to find ways to constantly improve a product, service or environment.
Scientific quality assurance personnel can work in agricultural, geological, chemical, biological, environmental and nuclear industries. Rather than focusing on a product, they continuously find new ways to improve processes and environments. In most cases, scientific quality assurance professionals are required to have an associate's degree in applied science or science technology and in some industries, they're required to have a bachelor's degree. Wages range from $15.00 per hour to $42.00 per hour.
Production Fields
QA engineers in production fields typically are involved with continuous process improvement to streamline and evaluate production activity. Their overall function is to cut costs and improve product production flow and processing. Because this profession typically is involved with overall profitability, salaries can range from $72,000 a year to $100,000 per year. Some organizations may offer a bonus structure depending on the company's revenues.
Outlook
QA engineers can be in high demand due to the nature and profitability of their work. Some organizations will accept new graduates to move into this role. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, QA engineering is an emerging career because of the constant changes in technology and the need to streamline processes and improve overall functions of any organization.
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