Information systems testing technicians put test plans in place to make sure that software applications and information and telecommunications systems work.
Source: Estimated median employment income based on 2021 Job Bank median hourly wage rate (median annual salary = hourly wage rate x 40 (hours per week) x 52.14 (weeks per year))
Note:Estimated median employment income based on 2021 Job Bank median hourly wage rate (median annual salary = hourly wage rate x 40 (hours per week) x 52.14 (weeks per year))
Source: 2021 Job Bank Wage Report
Source: B.C. Labour Market Outlook
10 year expected job openings: 830
N/A - Data not available
Information systems testing technicians perform some or all of these duties:
Information systems testing technicians typically work a 40-hour work week. Sometimes overtime or additional work hours may be needed to take care of unexpected technical problems or to meet deadlines to launch new products or services.
Information systems testing technicians work in an office or computer lab. They spend a great deal of time on their computer and this may cause eyestrain, back pain, and hand and wrist problems, such as carpal tunnel syndrome. Ergonomic workstations and processes are often put in place by the employer to help people avoid these health issues.
People in this career can work in both the private and public sectors. They are typically part of information technology departments or divisions, or they may be employed by a company that develops software or designs computer and telecommunication systems.
Source: 2016 Census
Information systems testing technicians usually need to complete a college or university program in computer science, computer programming or network administration. Entry-level training programs in computer science, computer programming and network administration are eight months to two years long.
In addition, one to two years’ experience in the information technology industry and specific job experience in this area are often needed to get a job in this field. It’s also important for people with this job to take courses throughout their careers to keep their skills up to date.
Completion of a post-secondary program and at least two years of industry work experience can lead to certification as a technologist or technician with the Applied Science Technologists and Technicians of British Columbia (ASTTBC). Certification is not necessary, but it may increase job opportunities. For more information, visit the ASTTBC website at www.asttbc.org
People with this career should have good computer skills. They must be able to find what works and what needs to be improved. Attention to detail is important for this job. Information systems testing technicians should have a clear understanding of what the end user needs so they can make sure their expectations are met.
Patience is a good skill to have for this job. Information systems testing technicians should be able to solve problems, make decisions under pressure and keep working towards a solution, no matter how difficult. It’s also helpful if they can communicate well with people who have technical skills and to explain the process to those who do not.
For more information about programs offered specifically for this career, visit EducationPlannerBC.
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It is expected that most opportunities in this career will come from the creation of new jobs. Unfortunately, because of the ability to work remotely, some of these jobs may be given to people who do not live in B.C. or in Canada. Some companies hire people from other countries where it costs less to provide these services.
An increase in the use of computer and telecommunications systems, such as wireless email and broadband internet, along with more complicated software applications, means that there will be a growing need for information systems testing technicians. Computer security, gaming and electronic commerce are three areas that are seeing strong growth. In addition, automation technology and computer ordering systems in the manufacturing industry are areas that need information systems testing technicians. An increase in elements such as Agile or Lean methods in software development are being put into place. This means this position may also include activity in Test Driven Development (TDD) and Behaviour Driven Development (BDD) testing.
People in this job may need to test for accessibility. This includes making sure that people with visual disabilities, such as those who cannot see or have limited vision, are considered when testing how the system or software works.
Information systems testing changes often as computers and software programs are improved. Information systems testing technicians must keep up with these changes and develop new programs and policies to manage this.
Career paths
Moving into computer programming, interactive media development, web development or systems analysis is possible with experience. Information systems testing technicians that have worked for several years may be able to find more senior jobs in areas such as project management and in supervisory or quality assurance management positions.
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