Quality Assurance (QA) Engineer career guide
QA engineers ensure software meets quality standards by designing, executing and automating tests before products are released.
Career guide reviewed by Certyz · October 2026
Entry routes vary by employer and role. Compare the options below before deciding what to research next.
What does a Quality Assurance (QA) Engineer do?
QA engineers ensure software meets quality standards by designing, executing and automating tests before products are released.
- Office
- Hybrid working
- Remote working
- Agile teams
- Technology companies
- Software consultancies
- Financial services
- Government
- Retail businesses
How to become a Quality Assurance (QA) Engineer
QA engineers often begin through software development or testing apprenticeships before specialising in quality engineering.
Degree, Degree Apprenticeship or Software Testing Apprenticeship in Computing or Software Engineering.
- Degree apprenticeship
- Apprenticeship
- Direct employment or training
Skills and progression for Quality Assurance (QA) Engineer
- Software testing
- Automation
- Attention to detail
- Problem solving
- Communication
- Senior QA Engineer
- Automation Test Lead
- Quality Engineering Manager
- Head of Quality
- Engineering Director
Check current entry requirements before deciding
This Certyz guide is a starting point. Qualifications, registration rules and apprenticeship availability can change. Confirm the latest requirements with employers, course providers, relevant professional bodies and official careers guidance.
What could the outlook mean for you?
Career opportunities can look different depending on where you live, your preferred route and the subjects and activities you enjoy. Your report brings those factors together rather than giving you a generic answer.
- Regional vacancy and salary intelligence
- Your personal career-match reasoning
- Opportunity strength and market direction
- Alternative careers worth considering