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Test Analyst

Kaitātari Whakamātautau

Test analysts design and carry out tests for computer software and systems, analyse results, and identify and report problems. 

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Secondary education

A tertiary entrance qualification is required to enter further training. Useful subjects include digital technologies, maths, physics and English.

For Year 11 to 13 students, the Gateway programme is a good way to gain industry experience.

Study fields

Study levels

  • Bachelor's degree
  • Diploma
  • Certificate

Useful experience

Useful experience for test analysts includes:

  • work with computers or programming
  • research and analysis
  • quality control or assessment work
  • IT internships and graduate recruitment programmes.

What you will do

Test analysts may do some or all of the following:

  • design and develop tests for software and systems to detect faults
  • keep written records of defects and bugs that are discovered during testing
  • analyse the defects and bugs to identify what is causing them
  • develop or recommend solutions to fix any problems discovered during testing
  • track the success of the solutions
  • keep software and systems documentation up to date.

Skills and knowledge

Test analysts need to have knowledge of:

  • programming methods and technology
  • computer software and systems
  • project management.
Pay

Test analysts usually earn

$80K-$130K

per year

Test managers usually earn

$130K-$200K

per year

Job opportunities
Good
Chances of getting a job as a test analyst are good due to a shortage of workers.
Length of training
1-3
years of training usually required.

Industry

Information Technology

Test analysts design and carry out tests for computer software and systems, analyse results, and identify and report problems. 

Similar jobs in this industry

Entry requirements

There are no specific requirements to become a test analyst. However, you usually need at least one of the following:

  • a tertiary qualification in computer science, information systems or business computing
  • a relevant industry-based certification such as International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB) Certified Tester
  • on-the-job training through internships and graduate recruitment programmes
  • experience in related entry-level IT roles such as systems administrator or helpdesk/support technician.

You can also learn through online courses and tutorials, and work on your own projects.

Chances of getting a job

Test analysts in demand

Demand for test analysts is high because organisations rely on computer systems and networks.

These organisations need test analysts to make sure changes and  new software and networks work properly. 

Shortage of experienced test analysts

There are not enough experienced test analysts to meet demand. Nearly two thirds of IT employers report skills shortages, and there aren't enough information technology (IT) trainees.

As a result, software tester, ICT systems test engineer, ICT support engineer and ICT quality assurance engineer appear on Immigration New Zealand's long-term skill shortage list. This means the Government is actively encouraging skilled test analysts from overseas to work in New Zealand.

According to the Census, 2,283 test analysts worked in New Zealand in 2018.

Types of employers varied

Employers of test analysts include:

  • private companies including software and web-development companies that work with film, games, and animation
  • marketing and advertising companies
  • government departments
  • educational institutions.

Fifteen percent of test analysts are self-employed. 

Find out more about training

IT Professionals
0800 252 255 - info@itp.nz - www.itp.nz
NZTech
(09) 475 0204 - info@nztech.org.nz - nztech.org.nz

Progression and specialisations

Test analysts may progress to become lead testers or testing managers, or move into a general management role.

Working conditions

Test analysts:

  • usually work full time and often work evenings and weekends, or might be on call
  • work in offices in conditions that may be stressful because they sometimes work to strict deadlines
  • may travel locally or overseas to meet clients.

Physical Requirements

Test analysts spend a lot of time using computers, so it is important that they know how to use computer equipment properly to avoid occupational overuse syndrome (OOS).

Useful personal qualities

Test analysts need to be:

  • methodical, accurate and patient
  • able to work well under pressure, and meet deadlines
  • able to work well as part of a team, and with minimal supervision
  • skilled at problem solving
  • skilled at verbal and written communication.

Related Wintec courses

Industry

Information Technology

Test analysts design and carry out tests for computer software and systems, analyse results, and identify and report problems. 

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