Systems Tester

Developing and implementing software applications and information and telecommunication systems involves a great deal of testing for bugs (errors or faults), reprogramming to correct bugs and testing again to make sure the new programming works and has not created new bugs. Complex applications require several testing cycles because different types of testing are needed at different stages of development and implementation. For example, a system may be tested to determine first how it works on its own, then how it works in a network environment.

Duties and responsibilities vary from one job to another but, in general, systems testers:

• review and analyze development documents
• develop test plans, test scenarios and testing schedules
• prepare test cases, test scripts and test data
• run tests and do some exploratory testing
• coordinate testing teams
• ensure that software specifications are met and the software doesn't crash (stop working) even when it is used in ways developers may not have anticipated (for example, if users click on inappropriate areas of the screen)
• document results (keep detailed records about what they did that resulted in an error message so programmers can replicate the problem and figure out what caused it).

They also may:

• prepare for testing by installing computer hardware and software (including operating system software) 
• conduct audits to ensure specifications are accurate 
• look for bugs in any automated testing tools they use.

Systems testers usually work closely with other computer specialists such as system developers (see the Computer Programmer occupational profile) and quality assurance analysts (see the Information Systems Quality Assurance Analyst profile).

Systems testers work standard office hours in office environments. Evening or weekend work may be required to meet project deadlines.

Systems testers need the following characteristics:

• the ability to think logically and analytically
• the ability to follow instructions and pay close attention to detail
• the ability to simplify and explain complex concepts in clear, understandable language
• tact
• strong communication skills
• strong problem solving skills
• the ability to work well in teams and on their own.

They should enjoy taking a methodical approach to tasks requiring precision, analyzing information to solve problems and consulting with others.

Systems testers are employed wherever software applications, information systems and telecommunication systems are developed and implemented.

Experienced testers may move into quality assurance analyst or supervisory positions.

Systems testers are part of a larger 2011 National Occupational Classification 2283: Systems Testing Technicians. In Alberta, 76% of people employed in this classification work in the following industries:

• Professional, Scientific and Technical Services (PDF)
• Information, Culture and Recreation (PDF)
• Finance, Insurance, Real Estate and Leasing (PDF)
• Wholesale Trade (PDF)

The employment outlook in this occupation will be influenced by a wide variety of factors including:

• trends and events affecting overall employment (especially in the industries listed above)
• location in Alberta
• employment turnover (work opportunities generated by people leaving existing positions)
• occupational growth(work opportunities resulting from the creation of new positions that never existed before)
• size of the occupation.

Employment turnover is expected to increase as members of the baby boom generation retire over the next few years.

Canadian Information Processing Society (CIPS) website: www.cips.ca

Information and Communications Technology Council (ICTC) website: www.ictc-ctic.ca

For more information on career planning, education and jobs, visit the Alberta Learning Information Service (ALIS) website, call the Alberta Career Information Hotline toll-free at 1-800-661-3753 or 780-422-4266 in Edmonton, or visit an Alberta Works Centre near you.