### Bureau of Labor Statistics U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Software Developers, Quality Assurance Analysts, and Testers Summary
                        
            
                                                        
                                                                
                        
            
            
            
                            
                                                
                                                
                                                
                                                
            						
							
				                                                
                                            




            			software developers imageSoftware developers design computer programs.							
						Quick Facts:     Software Developers, Quality Assurance Analysts, and Testers2023     Median Pay
            						$130,160     per year
										$62.58     per hourTypical Entry-Level Education
                                    Bachelor's degreeWork Experience in a Related Occupation
                                    NoneOn-the-job Training
                                    NoneNumber of Jobs, 2022
                                    1,795,300Job Outlook, 2022-32
                                    25% (Much faster than average)Employment Change, 2022-32
                                    451,200What Software Developers, Quality Assurance Analysts, and Testers Do
                                                
                        
                        
Software developers design computer applications or programs. Software quality assurance analysts and testers identify problems with applications or programs and report defects.
            
                        Work Environment
                        
Many software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers work in computer systems design and related services, in manufacturing, or for software publishers. They often work in offices and on teams with other software developers or quality assurance analysts and testers.
            
                                                How to Become a Software Developer, Quality Assurance Analyst, or Tester
                                                
                        
Software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers typically need a bachelor’s degree in computer and information technology or a related field. Some employers prefer to hire developers who have a master’s degree.
            
                        Pay
                        												                            																				    														The median annual wage for software developers was $132,270 in May 2023.									                                														The median annual wage for software quality assurance analysts and testers was $101,800 in May 2023.									                                					
						
            
                        Job Outlook
                        						
												Overall employment							of software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers is projected to grow							 25 percent from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations.
						About 153,900 openings for software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers are projected each year, on average, over the decade.
            			
            			 Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.
						State & Area Data
                       Explore resources for employment and wages by state and area for software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers.
            
            
						
                        Similar Occupations
                        
                                                    Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers with similar occupations.
            
            
                        More Information, Including Links to O*NET
                        
                                               
                        Learn more about software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers by visiting additional resources, including O*NET, a source on key characteristics of workers and occupations.
 What Software Developers, Quality Assurance Analysts, and Testers Do 
            

			Software developersDevelopers create diagrams that help programmers write computer code.			
Software developers create the computer applications that allow users to do specific tasks and the underlying systems that run the devices or control networks. Software quality assurance analysts and testers design and execute software tests to identify problems and learn how the software works.
Duties
Software developers typically do the following:
Analyze users’ needs and then design and develop software to meet those needs
Recommend software upgrades for customers’ existing programs and systems
Design each piece of an application or system and plan how the pieces will work together
Create a variety of models and diagrams showing programmers the software code needed for an application
Ensure that a program continues to function normally through software maintenance and testing
Document every aspect of an application or system as a reference for future maintenance and upgradesSoftware quality assurance analysts and testers typically do the following:
Create test plans, scenarios, and procedures for new software
Identify project risks and recommend steps to minimize those risks
Implement software testing, using either manual or automated programs and exploratory testing, and evaluate results
Document and report defects or problems with software
Provide feedback to software developers and stakeholders regarding usability and functionalitySoftware developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers are involved in the entire process of creating a software program. Developers may begin by asking how the customer plans to use the software so that they can identify the core functionality the user needs. Software developers also determine other requirements, such as security. They design the program and then work closely with programmers, who write computer code. However, some developers write code themselves instead of giving instructions to programmers.
Software quality assurance analysts and testers design and execute systems to check the software for problems. As part of their testing, these workers document and track the software’s potential defects or risks. They also assess its usability and functionality to identify difficulties a user might have. After completing testing, they report the results to software or web developers and review ways to solve any problems they found.
After the program is released to the customer, a developer may perform upgrades and maintenance. Quality assurance analysts and testers run manual and automated checks to look for errors and usability problems once the software is released and after any upgrades or maintenance.
The following are examples of types of software developers:
***Applications software developers*** design computer applications, such as games, for consumers. They may create custom software for a specific customer or commercial software to be sold to the general public. Some applications software developers create databases or programs for use internally or online.
***Software engineers*** take a broad view of a project’s system and software requirements, planning its scope and order of work. These workers may direct software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers.
***Systems software developers*** create the operating systems for the public or specifically for an organization. These operating systems keep computers functioning and control most of the consumer electronics in use today, including those in cell phones and cars. Often, systems software developers also build the interface that allows users to interact with the computer.
Developers who supervise a software project from the planning stages through implementation sometimes are called information technology (IT) project managers. These workers monitor the project’s progress to ensure that it meets deadlines, standards, and cost targets. For information on IT project managers who plan and direct an organization’s IT department or IT policies, see the profile on computer and information systems (CIS) managers.
 Work Environment
			Software developersDevelopers may oversee a team of people during the software development process.			

	    
				
	
	
	
	
	
	
	    					 Software developers held about 1.6 million jobs in 2022. The largest employers of software developers were as follows:
        Computer systems design and related services
                33%Software publishers
                11Finance and insurance
                10Manufacturing
                8Management of companies and enterprises
                5Software quality assurance analysts and testers held about 200,800 jobs in 2022. The largest employers of software quality assurance analysts and testers were as follows:
        Computer systems design and related services
                32%Finance and insurance
                11Software publishers
                10Manufacturing
                7Administrative and support services
                7Developing software is usually a collaborative process. As a result, developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers work on teams with others who also contribute to designing, developing, and programming successful software.
Work Schedules
Most software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers work full time.
 How to Become a Software Developer, Quality Assurance Analyst, or Tester

			Software developersSoftware developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers typically need a bachelor’s degree.			
Software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers typically need a bachelor’s degree in computer and information technology or a related field. Some employers prefer to hire developers who have a master’s degree.
Education
Software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers typically need a bachelor's degree in computer and information technology or a related field, such as engineering or mathematics. Computer and information technology degree programs cover a broad range of topics. Students may gain experience in software development by completing an internship, such as at a software company, while in college. For some software developer positions, employers may prefer that applicants have a master’s degree.
Although writing code is not their primary responsibility, developers must have a strong background in computer programming. They usually gain this experience in school. Throughout their career, developers must keep up to date on new tools and computer languages.
Advancement
Software developers can advance to become project management specialists or computer and information systems managers, positions in which they oversee the software development process.
Important Qualities
***Analytical skills.*** Software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers must evaluate users’ needs and then design software to function properly and meet those needs.
***Communication skills***. These workers must be able to give clear instructions and explain problems that arise to other team members involved in development. They must also be able to explain to nontechnical users, such as customers, how the software works and answer any questions that arise.
***Creativity.*** Software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers must be innovative in their approaches to designing, identifying problems with, and improving computer software.
***Detail oriented.*** These workers often need to concentrate on many parts of an application or system at the same time, and they must pay attention to detail when looking for potential areas of user error.
***Interpersonal skills.*** Software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers must be able to work well with others who contribute to designing, programming, and testing successful software.
***Problem-solving skills.*** Because these workers produce software from beginning to end, they must be able to solve problems that arise throughout the design process.
 Pay

			



	
 
                                                     
            
    
                        Software Developers, Quality Assurance Analysts, and TestersMedian annual wages, May 2023Software developers$132,270  Software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers$130,160  Computer occupations$104,420  Software quality assurance analysts and testers$101,800  Total, all occupations$48,060Note: All Occupations includes all occupations in the U.S. Economy.Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics
 

	
	



		
	
	
	
The median annual wage for software developers was $132,270 in May 2023. 


The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $77,020, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $208,620.The median annual wage for software quality assurance analysts and testers was $101,800 in May 2023. 


The lowest 10 percent earned less than $58,740, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $164,520.





		
	    					 In May 2023, the median annual wages for software developers in the top industries in which they worked were as follows:	
        Software publishers
                $143,210Manufacturing
                138,100Finance and insurance
                132,900Management of companies and enterprises
                131,370Computer systems design and related services
                127,880In May 2023, the median annual wages for software quality assurance analysts and testers in the top industries in which they worked were as follows:	
        Manufacturing
                $123,100Software publishers
                100,780Finance and insurance
                100,580Computer systems design and related services
                100,370Administrative and support services
                99,840Most software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers work full time.
 Job Outlook

   
        
    
          
        
    
                        Software Developers, Quality Assurance Analysts, and TestersPercent change in employment, projected 2022-32Software developers26%  Software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers25%  Software quality assurance analysts and testers20%  Computer occupations14%  Total, all occupations3%Note: All Occupations includes all occupations in the U.S. Economy.Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections program
            
            
			 
	
	
	

			Overall employment				of software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers is projected to grow				 25 percent from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations.
			
			About 153,900 openings for software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers are projected each year, on average, over the decade.
			
			 Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.
			Employment
	
			
Increased demand for software developers, software quality assurance analysts, and testers will stem from the continued expansion of software development for artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), robotics, and other automation applications.
In response to concerns over threats to computer security, organizations are expected to increase investment in software that protects their electronic networks and infrastructure. This investment could result in an increased demand for developers to create security software and for quality assurance analysts and testers to create and execute software tests.
Software developers, software quality assurance analysts, and testers are likely to see new opportunities because of the increasing number of products that use software. For example, software systems continue to be built for consumer electronics and other products, including IoT-connected devices and electric vehicles.

			

                        Employment projections data for     software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers, 2022-32
                Occupational Title
                        SOC Code
                        Employment, 2022
                        Projected Employment, 2032
                        Change, 2022-32
                        Employment by IndustryPercent
                        NumericSOURCE: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections program**Software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers**
			—
			1,795,300
			2,246,500
			25
			451,200
			—**Software developers**
			15-1252
			1,594,500
			2,004,900
			26
			410,400
			Get data**Software quality assurance analysts and testers**
			15-1253
			200,800
			241,600
			20
			40,800
			Get data
 State & Area Data **Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS)** The Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) program produces employment and wage estimates annually for over 800 occupations. These estimates are available for the nation as a whole, for individual states, and for metropolitan and nonmetropolitan areas. The link(s) below go to OES data maps for employment and wages by state and area. Software developers
					Software quality assurance analysts and testers **Projections Central** Occupational employment projections are developed for all states by Labor Market Information (LMI) or individual state Employment Projections offices. All state projections data are available at www.projectionscentral.com. Information on this site allows projected employment growth for an occupation to be compared among states or to be compared within one state. In addition, states may produce projections for areas; there are links to each state’s websites where these data may be retrieved. **CareerOneStop** CareerOneStop includes hundreds of occupational profiles with data available by state and metro area. There are links in the left-hand side menu to compare occupational employment by state and occupational wages by local area or metro area. There is also a salary info tool to search for wages by zip code.
 Similar Occupations This table shows a list of occupations with job duties that are similar to those of software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers. Occupation
                Job Duties
                ENTRY-LEVEL EDUCATION
                2023     MEDIAN PAY**Computer and Information Research Scientists**
            Computer and information research scientists design innovative uses for new and existing computing technology.
            Master's degree
            $145,080**Computer and Information Systems Managers**
            Computer and information systems managers plan, coordinate, and direct computer-related activities in an organization.
            Bachelor's degree
            $169,510**Computer Hardware Engineers**
            Computer hardware engineers research, design, develop, and test computer systems and components.
            Bachelor's degree
            $138,080**Computer Network Architects**
            Computer network architects design and implement data communication networks, including local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and intranets.
            Bachelor's degree
            $129,840**Computer Programmers**
            Computer programmers write, modify, and test code and scripts that allow computer software and applications to function properly.
            Bachelor's degree
            $99,700**Computer Support Specialists**
            Computer support specialists maintain computer networks and provide technical help to computer users.
            See How to Become One
            $60,810**Computer Systems Analysts**
            Computer systems analysts study an organization’s current computer systems and design ways to improve efficiency.
            Bachelor's degree
            $103,800**Database Administrators and Architects**
            Database administrators and architects create or organize systems to store and secure data.
            Bachelor's degree
            $117,450**Data Scientists**
            Data scientists use analytical tools and techniques to extract meaningful insights from data.
            Bachelor's degree
            $108,020**Information Security Analysts**
            Information security analysts plan and carry out security measures to protect an organization’s computer networks and systems.
            Bachelor's degree
            $120,360**Mathematicians and Statisticians**
            Mathematicians and statisticians analyze data and apply computational techniques to solve problems.
            Master's degree
            $104,860**Postsecondary Teachers**
            Postsecondary teachers instruct students in a variety of academic subjects beyond the high school level.
            See How to Become One
            $84,380**Web Developers and Digital Designers**
            Web developers create and maintain websites. Digital designers develop, create, and test website or interface layout, functions, and navigation for usability.
            Bachelor's degree
            $92,750
 Contacts for More Information
								
For more information about software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers, visit
Association for Computing Machinery
Association for Software Testing
IEEE Computer Society
Computing Research Association
CompTIA
For information about opportunities for women pursuing information technology careers, visit
National Center for Women & Information Technology
CareerOneStop
For career videos on software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers, visit
Software developers, applications
Software quality assurance analysts and testers

                                                
                                                        
                                                                                                    O*NET
                                        Software DevelopersSoftware Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
 Suggested citation: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S.  Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Software Developers, Quality Assurance Analysts, and Testers, 
        	 at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/software-developers.htm (visited *May 21, 2024*).
 **Last Modified Date:**
                        Wednesday, April 17, 2024


**U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics**
Office of Occupational Statistics and Employment Projections 
PSB Suite 2135 
2 Massachusetts Avenue NE  
Washington, DC 20212-0001 Telephone:1-202-691-5700 

www.bls.gov/ooh
Contact OOH