Localisation QA/QA Analyst

Alternative job titles for this role

• Quality assurance analyst
• Software quality analyst
• Test analyst
• SQL backend test analyst

Introduction

Quality assurance analysts test programmes, games and any software to make sure they are reliable, fully functional, and user-friendly before they are released to the public. He or she uses a test plan to inspect thousands of lines of code to make sure they are entirely error-free. They look for flaws and weaknesses in the programme, such as an unappealing interface and report back to the developers on their findings. They may also fix any system problems or glitches and make suggestions about how to make a software programme work better. They must also ensure that the software is right for the market in which it will be released, is translated in to the local language and is culturally compatible.

What the job involves

• Create a test plan
• Use the plan to assess functionality, performance, reliability, stability and compatibility with other systems
• Use the plan to hunt down and fix software bugs
• Look for ways to prevent bugs from occurring in the first place
• Guard against incorrect language usage, truncated text and incorrect formatting
• Ensure product is culturally compatible with target market
• Some localisation analysts are responsible for translation work
• Rebuild the corrected software application

How your career can develop

Experienced quality assurance analysts have several paths for career advancement, especially in a large company. With experience, they can progress to supervisor over an entire quality control and assurance division. With further education, they can move into a top administrative or executive position.

Skills

• Knowledge of a broad range of software applications
• Strong programming knowledge
• A good understanding of business
• Ability to think in the abstract and see how small details fit in to the bigger picture
• A creative mindset – able to approach a problem creatively
• Good communications skills both written and verbal
• Strong IT skills and knowledge including hardware, software and networks
• A meticulous approach to work
• Ability to use logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of IT systems

Typical employers

• Game developers
• Software localisation companies
• Social media platforms
• Travel companies and airlines
• Entertainment companies

Typical salary

• Graduate/Starting: €25,000 to €65,000 with experience
• Senior/Potential: up to €90,000 for test managers

Typical qualifications

Most employers look for a third level degree in software engineering, computer science, programming, software development or related fields or a diploma.

Further information

Irish Software Association: www.software.ie

Irish Computer Society: www.ics.ie