How much does a Software Quality Assurance (SQA) Lead Tester make in the United States?
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The average Software Quality Assurance (SQA) Lead Tester salary in the United States is $179,967 as of May 01, 2026. The range for our most popular Software Quality Assurance (SQA) Lead Tester positions (listed below) typically falls between $159,347 and $200,587. Keep in mind that salary ranges can vary widely depending on many important factors, including position, education, certifications, additional skills, and the number of years you have spent in your profession. With more online, real-time compensation data than any other website, Salary.com helps you determine your exact pay target.
Software Quality Assurance (SQA) Lead Tester's Annual Base Salary
| Job Title | Salary | Hourly Rate | Location | Date Updated |
| Software Quality Assurance Tester | $48,396 | $23.27 | United States | May 01, 2026 |
| Software Quality Assurance Tester I | $50,608 | $24.33 | United States | May 01, 2026 |
| Software Quality Assurance Tester III | $66,704 | $32.07 | United States | May 01, 2026 |
| Software Quality Assurance Tester IV | $82,222 | $39.53 | United States | May 01, 2026 |
| Software Quality Assurance Tester II | $57,534 | $27.66 | United States | May 01, 2026 |
| Software Quality Assurance Lead | $93,327 | $44.87 | United States | May 01, 2026 |
| Quality Assurance Tester | $47,881 | $23.02 | United States | May 01, 2026 |
| Software Quality Tester | $46,881 | $22.54 | United States | May 01, 2026 |
| Software Lead Tester | $65,631 | $31.55 | United States | May 01, 2026 |
| Senior Quality Assurance Tester | $54,530 | $26.22 | United States | May 01, 2026 |
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A Software Quality Assurance Tester is responsible for ensuring that software products and applications meet the highest standards of quality and reliability. They are responsible for testing software to identify and resolve any defects or issues, and for ensuring that the software meets all functional and performance requirements. This may involve creating and executing test plans, identifying and documenting bugs, and working closely with software developers and other team members to ensure that all issues are addressed and resolved. The Software Quality Assurance Tester plays a critical role in ensuring that software products are of the highest quality and meet the needs and expectations of end users. View Software Quality Assurance Tester Salary
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Software Quality Assurance Tester I manually tests features of new software releases using pre-defined test plans and cases to identify defects, bugs, and usability issues. Utilizes standardized testing procedures to ensure consistent and accurate diagnosis. Being a Software Quality Assurance Tester I executes tests on a variety of devices, browsers, and operating systems to ensure optimal user experience and functionality across platforms. Documents test results and uses designated systems and tools to track and report outcomes. Additionally, Software Quality Assurance Tester I performs follow-up rounds of testing as needed to ensure defects are resolved. Requires an associate degree. Typically reports to a supervisor. The Software Quality Assurance Tester I works under the close direction of senior personnel in the functional area. Possesses a moderate understanding of general aspects of the job. May require 0-1 year of general work experience. View Software Quality Assurance Tester I SalaryAlternate Job Titles:Software Quality Manual Tester I, Software Quality Testing Specialist I, Software Tester I
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Software Quality Assurance Tester III manually tests features of new software releases using pre-defined test plans and cases to identify defects, bugs, and usability issues. Utilizes standardized testing procedures to ensure consistent and accurate diagnosis. Being a Software Quality Assurance Tester III executes tests on a variety of devices, browsers, and operating systems to ensure optimal user experience and functionality across platforms. Documents test results and uses designated systems and tools to track and report outcomes. Additionally, Software Quality Assurance Tester III performs follow-up rounds of testing as needed to ensure defects are resolved. Requires an associate degree. Typically reports to a supervisor. The Software Quality Assurance Tester III works independently within established procedures associated with the specific job function. Has gained proficiency in multiple competencies relevant to the job. To be a Software Quality Assurance Tester III typically requires 3-5 years of related experience. View Software Quality Assurance Tester III SalaryAlternate Job Titles:Software Quality Manual Tester III, Software Quality Testing Specialist III, Software Tester III
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Software Quality Assurance Tester IV manually tests features of new software releases using pre-defined test plans and cases to identify defects, bugs, and usability issues. Utilizes standardized testing procedures to ensure consistent and accurate diagnosis. Being a Software Quality Assurance Tester IV executes tests on a variety of devices, browsers, and operating systems to ensure optimal user experience and functionality across platforms. Documents test results and uses designated systems and tools to track and report outcomes. Additionally, Software Quality Assurance Tester IV performs follow-up rounds of testing as needed to ensure defects are resolved. Requires an associate degree. Typically reports to a supervisor. The Software Quality Assurance Tester IV independently performs a wide range of complex duties under general guidance from supervisors. Has gained full proficiency in a broad range of activities related to the job. To be a Software Quality Assurance Tester IV typically requires 5-7 years of related experience. View Software Quality Assurance Tester IV SalaryAlternate Job Titles:Software Quality Manual Tester IV, Software Quality Testing Specialist IV, Software Tester IV
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Software Quality Assurance Tester II manually tests features of new software releases using pre-defined test plans and cases to identify defects, bugs, and usability issues. Utilizes standardized testing procedures to ensure consistent and accurate diagnosis. Being a Software Quality Assurance Tester II executes tests on a variety of devices, browsers, and operating systems to ensure optimal user experience and functionality across platforms. Documents test results and uses designated systems and tools to track and report outcomes. Additionally, Software Quality Assurance Tester II performs follow-up rounds of testing as needed to ensure defects are resolved. Requires an associate degree. Typically reports to a supervisor. The Software Quality Assurance Tester II works under moderate supervision. Gaining or has attained full proficiency in a specific area of discipline. To be a Software Quality Assurance Tester II typically requires 1-3 years of related experience. View Software Quality Assurance Tester II SalaryAlternate Job Titles:Software Quality Manual Tester II, Software Quality Testing Specialist II, Software Tester II