Software inspectors perform various tests to ensure that programs work properly and meet the appropriate quality assurance requirements. They look for bugs within programs and work with other programmers and software testers to fix any errors that affect the program's performance. The software testing process is complex, so the job requires you to possess detailed knowledge of how programs work. Some software inspectors also must write testing scripts to automate the error-tracking process. If you want to become a software inspector, you will likely need a college degree, extensive programming and software testing skills and, possibly, a certification from a software testing company.
A technical college degree is a common requirement if you want to become a software inspector, because it introduces you to programming, databases, system analysis and other skills. Computer science and computer engineering are especially common degrees for software testing jobs, because they involve learning the fine details of computer programming and testing. A solid college program also will teach you how to use software testing tools and will include group projects that simulate the working environment. Although it's not always required, some software inspectors may hold a certification from a software testing company. An advantage of gaining a certification is that you'll learn more efficient testing processes and may have better job opportunities.
To become a software inspector, you will need additional skills beyond knowing how to write and test programs. Writing and analytical skills are critical, because you will have to appropriately document each problem you find and fix. You also will need to be motivated and able to concentrate while looking for a single bug in many lines of programming code. Software testing jobs are usually in teams, so interpersonal skills and the ability to cooperate with a diverse group of co-workers also will help you do your job more effectively and efficiently.
Some employers hire recent colleges graduates for entry-level software testing jobs, but others prefer that the candidate has a year or two of experience in programming or quality assurance testing. There also are alternate routes if you want to become a software inspector, including internships and volunteer work. Some software companies let users participate in software beta tests, which can help you gain experience in testing software. Although many beta tests do not offer monetary compensation, some may give you a free copy of the final software or a trial period for a related service.
