Why Software Quality Assurance Engineers Should Consider Switching Careers

Author: Shiblu Ahmad, Inventor of Private Bootcamp

Date: November 02, 2024

As a Software Quality Assurance (SQA) Engineer, you play a critical role in ensuring software products meet high standards of quality. You understand the importance of manual and automation testing, Agile Scrum, and delivering a product that works seamlessly for users. But with rapid advancements in technology, especially with the rise of artificial intelligence (AI), the SQA role is evolving—and not necessarily in your favor.

If you’re an SQA Engineer today, you may have noticed how the landscape of your career has shifted. Manual testing, once at the core of the job, is slowly being overshadowed by automation. However, the push for faster delivery, the lack of focus on automation, and the increasing demands from management are making it harder for many SQA Engineers to keep up. This, combined with the rise of AI, is leading to many SQA Engineers being underutilized, replaced, or even laid off.

So, the question you might be asking yourself is: Is it time to switch careers?

Why SQA Engineers Are Struggling

In many companies, SQA Engineers are still relied on for manual testing—clicking through applications, checking forms, buttons, and processes. While this work is important, it is often seen as repetitive and less valuable than automation testing. Automation, which is essentially coding, can replicate the actions of manual testers but at a much faster pace. However, the problem arises when SQA Engineers are expected to handle both manual and automation testing without enough time, training, or resources.

The shift toward backend API-driven testing further complicates the role of an SQA Engineer. Many QA teams are now required to focus on automating backend systems rather than traditional GUI interfaces. But if you’ve been mostly focused on manual testing, you may not have the experience or the tools needed to make that transition smoothly.

In reality, many SQA Engineers are juggling too many tasks: writing and executing test cases, collaborating with developers, attending meetings, and now, trying to automate everything. Without a dedicated team for automation, these expectations are unrealistic.

The AI Disruption: Should You Be Worried?

The rise of AI is the biggest disruptor for SQA Engineers today. AI is now capable of writing test cases, generating test documentation, and even preparing presentations. This automation reduces the need for manual input, which means the role of an SQA Engineer is being diminished.

For example, AI can now do in hours what used to take days. It can write detailed test cases from requirements, generate reports from screenshots, and even automate the coding of test scripts. Many companies are opting to use AI solutions instead of paying high salaries to manual testers. This shift is leading to job cuts and the outsourcing of QA roles to offshore teams where labor costs are lower.

The truth is, if you’re an SQA Engineer who hasn’t embraced AI or automation, your position is at risk.

The Case for Switching Careers

If you’ve been feeling the pressure in your SQA role, you’re not alone. The demand for manual testers is declining, and the expectations on QA professionals are increasing every day. The good news is that you have skills that are highly transferable to other roles. Here’s why you might want to consider switching careers:

1. High Demand for Automation and Development Roles: If you enjoy coding or automation, now is the time to transition into a full-time development or automation role. These positions are in high demand, and they offer better job security and higher salaries.

2. AI and Data Roles Are Growing: With the rise of AI, data science, and machine learning, there is a growing need for professionals who understand both quality assurance and AI tools. If you’re willing to upskill, these areas offer exciting opportunities.

3. Project Management and Leadership: Your experience working with developers, managing testing processes, and following Agile methodologies makes you a strong candidate for project management or leadership roles. These positions allow you to step away from day-to-day testing and focus on broader strategic goals.

4. Cybersecurity and Compliance: With your background in quality assurance, transitioning to cybersecurity or compliance testing is a natural next step. Both fields are rapidly growing, and your attention to detail and understanding of software vulnerabilities will be highly valued.

How to Make the Switch

If you’re considering a career switch, here are a few steps you can take:

? Upskill in Automation and AI: Learn automation tools like Selenium, Postman, or Cypress if you haven’t already. Take courses in AI or machine learning to understand how these technologies are transforming the industry.

? Look Into New Roles: Explore opportunities in related fields like DevOps, cybersecurity, or project management. These roles often require similar skill sets but offer better long-term prospects.

? Leverage Your Experience: Don’t forget that your experience as an SQA Engineer has given you valuable insights into software development, project management, and quality assurance. These skills are transferable to many other roles.

Conclusion: The Future Is Yours to Shape

As an SQA Engineer, you have already built a strong foundation in the tech industry. But with the rise of AI and automation, it may be time to explore new career opportunities. The good news is that your skills are highly transferable, and with the right mindset and upskilling, you can transition into a role that offers more growth, stability, and future-proof success.

Now is the time to take control of your career. Watch for my next post, where I’ll share actionable tips on how you can make a successful transition into new roles.

Thank you,

Shiblu Ahmad?

Inventor of Private Bootcamp?

Founder, TS4U IT Engineering Bootcamp?

Founder, Bootcamps Hub

Founder, PMCRM Hub