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Software Test Engineer Job Description: Top Duties and Qualifications

A Software Test Engineer, or Software Testing Engineer, implements testing procedures on software programs. Their duties include developing testing procedures, carrying out the software testing and creating reports on the software’s performance.

Software Test Engineer duties and responsibilities

Software Test Engineers need to be problem-solvers with attention to detail. The purpose of a Software Test Engineer is to test the software product thoroughly to ensure it performs as expected. Common daily Software Test Engineer job duties include:

  • Creating testing procedures to evaluate the performance of the software
  • Building software testing programs that automate testing processes
  • Running the software testing procedures to evaluate the software
  • Documenting all testing procedures
  • Reporting bugs and making recommendations to improve the software product
  • Collaborating with other Test Engineers, Software Programmers and other team members
  • Retesting software after bugs are fixed to ensure the program works properly
  • Attending meetings with the development team, clients and other groups

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Software Test Engineer Job Description Examples

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What does a Software Test Engineer do?

A Software Test Engineer creates and runs various testing procedures on software products, using both manual and automated testing methods, to ensure they work properly. They work on new software that’s being developed to look for bugs that prevent the software from functioning as expected, and they might also test existing software to look for ways to improve it. Software Test Engineers typically work for software development companies and work on all types of software used in various industries. They work closely with the rest of the software development team, giving them feedback and reporting bugs they find to work together to improve the product.

Software Test Engineerskills and qualifications

Successful Software Test Engineers need certain skills and qualifications. When creating your job description, consider including the following requirements:

  • Strong technical abilities and comfort working with various software programs
  • Knowledge of various programming languages, depending on the project
  • Understanding of various database types
  • Problem-solving skills
  • Written and verbal communication skills to successfully share their testing results and make recommendations
  • Ability to work well as part of a software development team
  • Familiarity with testing processes, including creating a test plan and opening bugs
  • Ability to handle fast-paced environments with tight deadlines

Software Test Engineer experience requirements

Many companies prefer candidates who have at least a few years of experience in a software testing environment. For example, you might look for someone who was a Junior Software Tester with experience executing some software test procedures. You might prefer someone who has work experience using the specific programming language, testing software, database type and operating system you use for an easier transition into the role.

Software Test Engineereducation and training requirements

The educational requirements for Software Test Engineer careers can vary based on the company’s preferences, but many organizations want candidates with at least a bachelor’s degree in software engineering, computer science, information technology or something similar. Some companies will hire Software Test Engineers with an associate’s degree in a related field, especially if they have work experience in software testing. No certification or licensing is required for Software Test Engineers, but there are many industry certifications candidates can earn.

Software Test Engineer salary expectations

According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a Software Test Engineer is $91,593 per year, plus a yearly $5,000 cash bonus. Specific salaries vary based on where you’re located and the experience of the selected candidate.

Software Test Engineer salary expectations

2025-09-0132000.00120551.60266000.00YEARLY
  • Common salary: 120551.60 YEARLY
  • Typical salaries range from 32000.00 - 266000.00 YEARLY
  • Find more information on Indeed Salaries

*Indeed data – 2025-09-01

Job description samples for similar positions

If a Software Test Engineer isn’t the right position for your company, here are additional job descriptions for similar positions:

Software Test Engineer job description FAQs

What is the difference between a Software Test Engineer and a Software Engineer?

Software Engineers design software programs. Software Test Engineers run tests on the product the Software Engineers make to ensure the code is correct and the software works as expected. The Software Engineer will then fix bugs and make recommended changes based on feedback from the Test Engineers. These roles work closely together as part of the overall software development team.

Do Software Test Engineers have different responsibilities in different industries?

Software Test Engineers work on software products in all types of industries. The functionality of the software might vary significantly by industry, but general software testing processes are similar. All Software Test Engineers develop testing processes, execute the testing and report bugs and recommendations to the development team. The testing might vary somewhat based on what the software is expected to do.

What qualities make a good Software Test Engineer?

A good Software Test Engineer is analytical yet creative to look at software products from different angles. They need to develop thorough testing procedures to test every aspect of the software program. Software Test Engineers need to be comfortable with technology and understand how things should work. They need the confidence to speak up when something doesn’t look right and to suggest ideas that might make the product better. Working together well with other team members is also crucial for success.

What makes a good Software Test Engineer job description?

Job candidates want to know the specifics of the software projects they’ll encounter on the job. Explain the type of software you develop, including the programming languages and operating systems you use. Keep the job description easy to read by providing the key details without extra fluff. Describing what sets your software development company apart from competitors can also help you attract candidates.

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Job Description Examples

Need help writing a job description for a specific role? Use these job description examples to create your next great job posting. Or if you’re ready to hire, post your job on Indeed.

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