Test lead | Average UK Salary & Outlook

Test leads plan and co-ordinate the testing programmes when new computer systems and applications are being developed or upgraded.

Typical task
Working hours
Attractive values

Design test plans, scenarios, scripts, or procedures.
Document software defects, using a bug tracking system, and report defects to software developers.
Identify, analyze, and document problems with program function, output, online screen, or content.
Develop testing programs that address areas such as database impacts, software scenarios, regression

Design test plans, scenarios, scripts, or procedures.
Document software defects, using a bug tracking system, and report defects to software developers.
Identify, analyze, and document problems with program function, output, online screen, or content.
Develop testing programs that address areas such as database impacts, software scenarios, regression testing, negative testing, error or bug retests, or usability.
Participate in product design reviews to provide input on functional requirements, product designs, schedules, or potential problems.
Document test procedures to ensure replicability and compliance with standards.
Plan test schedules or strategies in accordance with project scope or delivery dates.
Conduct software compatibility tests with programs, hardware, operating systems, or network environments.
Test system modifications to prepare for implementation.
Monitor bug resolution efforts and track successes.
Review software documentation to ensure technical accuracy, compliance, or completeness, or to mitigate risks.
Provide feedback and recommendations to developers on software usability and functionality.
Update automated test scripts to ensure currency.
Create or maintain databases of known test defects.
Install, maintain, or use software testing programs.
Install and configure recreations of software production environments to allow testing of software performance.
Monitor program performance to ensure efficient and problem-free operations.
Identify program deviance from standards, and suggest modifications to ensure compliance.
Develop or specify standards, methods, or procedures to determine product quality or release readiness.
Design or develop automated testing tools.
Investigate customer problems referred by technical support.
Conduct historical analyses of test results.
Perform initial debugging procedures by reviewing configuration files, logs, or code pieces to determine breakdown source.
Evaluate or recommend software for testing or bug tracking.
Coordinate user or third-party testing.
Collaborate with field staff or customers to evaluate or diagnose problems and recommend possible solutions.

Average salary
55,908 GBP *
per year

Average salary for Test lead

Big gender gap

58,417 GBP
47,704 GBP

Average salary for part-time Test lead

Average salary for full-time Test lead

Showing:

28,610 GBP
25,538 GBP

55,908 GBP
47,704 GBP
58,417 GBP

Salary over time for Test lead

Salary for this role has increased over time

50,293 GBP
49,579 GBP
51,557 GBP
52,737 GBP
51,961 GBP
52,736 GBP
55,908 GBP
53,525 GBP
55,346 GBP

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Future outlook for Test leads

Very good outlook

171 000+ jobs available

Balanced outlook

1% yearly wage growth (on average)

Very good outlook

24% chance of automation in the future

Which qualifications do I need?

Find out what you need to know in order to become a Test lead and the highest average level of education for people in this role.

In terms of people already doing this job:

70% of people in this role have a Bachelor's degree
15% of people in this role have a Diploma of Higher Education or equivalent
7% of people in this role have a post-secondary qualification such as a Higher National Diploma

You could apply directly for jobs if you have 3 to 5 years’ experience in software testing and quality assurance. Experience in software development, systems engineering and project management could be helpful.

You’ll also find it useful to have professional certification from an industry organisation like The Chartered Institute for IT.

Get the right qualification to begin your journey to becoming a Test lead

Programming

Attention to Detail Job requires being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks. Analytical Thinking Job requires analyzing information and using logic to address work-related issues and problems. Dependability Job requires being reliable, responsible, and dependable, and fulfilling obligations. Adaptability/Flexibility Job requires being open to change (positive or negative) and to considerable variety in the workplace. Integrity Job requires being honest and ethical.

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Test lead | Average UK Salary & Outlook

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Future outlook for Test leads

Test lead - Your future job?

Which qualifications do I need?

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