QA analyst job description.

What does a QA analyst do?

 

A QA analyst ensures that digital products and systems meet quality standards before they go live. They write test cases, execute manual testing, log bugs, and work with developers to confirm fixes. Their role is focused on maintaining functionality, usability, and consistency.

 

They work closely with product managers and developers to understand requirements and test user flows. QA analysts may also be involved in regression testing and providing feedback on edge cases or usability concerns.

 

In smaller companies, QA analysts may cover multiple products or environments. In larger teams, they focus on testing specific modules or areas, often as part of a wider test or release team.

 

Key responsibilities of a QA analyst.

 

QA analysts are responsible for ensuring products meet quality and usability standards. Their responsibilities typically include:

• Reviewing requirements and writing test cases or test scripts

• Conducting manual testing across browsers, devices, or systems

• Reporting and tracking bugs using tools like Jira or TestRail

• Collaborating with developers to troubleshoot and validate fixes

• Participating in sprint planning and QA sign-off processes

• Supporting regression and exploratory testing

• Ensuring test coverage across new features or product updates

• Documenting defects and test outcomes clearly and accurately

• Validating UX consistency and content accuracy

• Escalating issues that impact user experience or performance

This role blends functional testing with clear communication and process support.

 

Skills and requirements for a QA analyst.

 

QA analysts identify issues and verify functionality before release. Employers typically look for:

• 1–3 years of experience in quality assurance or software testing

• Experience writing test cases and executing manual test plans

• Basic understanding of bug tracking and defect management tools

• Familiarity with Jira, TestRail, or similar QA platforms

• Ability to document bugs clearly and provide reproduction steps

• Strong attention to detail and critical thinking

• Comfortable testing web, mobile, or software platforms

• Ability to work closely with developers and product teams

• Understanding of agile or scrum delivery cycles

Most QA analysts come from junior testing or support roles, ensuring consistent product quality.

 

Average salary for a QA analyst.

 

In the UK, the average salary for a QA analyst typically ranges from £28,000 to £40,000, depending on testing coverage, automation tools, and platform experience.

• Mid-level QA analysts earn between £28,000 and £34,000

• Senior analysts managing complex test suites may earn between £35,000 and £40,000

• Roles with automation testing (e.g. Selenium, Cypress) often attract higher pay

London and tech-first product companies typically offer stronger salary packages.

 

Career progression for a QA analyst.

 

A QA analyst ensures digital products meet quality standards through manual testing and documentation. It’s an entry-to-mid-level role that progresses into automation, leadership, or specialist QA functions. A typical career path includes:

 

Junior QA analyst / tester

 

Performs manual tests, logs bugs, and supports user acceptance testing (UAT) efforts.

 

QA analyst

 

Creates test plans, works with dev teams, and manages functional and regression testing.

 

QA engineer

 

Introduces automation testing tools, scripts, and integrates with CI/CD pipelines.

 

QA lead

 

Manages test strategy, coverage, and team planning. Oversees release cycles.

 

QA manager / director of QA

 

Owns quality frameworks, team leadership, and cross-departmental coordination to maintain product excellence.