What is Quality Assurance?

Quality Assurance professionals are responsible for conducting tests to identify any errors or issues in products, services, or systems. They create and execute test plans, analyze test results, and report any defects to the development team. Their main goal is to ensure that products meet the required quality standards and are ready for release to the market.

Where does a Quality Assurance work?

Quality Assurance professionals can work in various industries such as software development, manufacturing, healthcare, and finance. They are usually employed by companies that produce and deliver products or services, where their role is to ensure that these products or services meet the required quality standards.

What are the requirements to become a Quality Assurance in Oregon?

To become a Quality Assurance professional in Oregon, you will typically need a combination of education and experience. While there is no specific degree requirement for this role, most employers prefer candidates with a bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, or a related field. Additionally, having relevant certifications such as Certified Software Quality Engineer (CSQE) or Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) can enhance your job prospects.

In terms of legal requirements, some employers may require you to pass a background check or drug test before hiring you for a QA position. It's also important to have good communication and problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work well in a team.

Where can I find Quality Assurance classes in Oregon?

If you're looking to gain the necessary skills and knowledge to become a Quality Assurance professional in Oregon, Dreambound is the largest platform for students to find and compare vocational training programs. They offer a comprehensive Quality Assurance training program in Portland, OR, which covers all the essential aspects of QA.

How do I get my Quality Assurance certification?

If you're interested in pursuing a career in Quality Assurance (QA), obtaining a certification can be a great way to validate your skills and knowledge in the field. While certification is not always required for QA roles, it can give you a competitive edge and open up additional career opportunities. In this section, we'll explore the steps you can take to get your Quality Assurance certification.

Step 1: Research certification options

There are several organizations that offer Quality Assurance certifications, each with its own requirements and areas of focus. Some of the most well-known certifications include:

• ISTQB Certification: The International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB) offers a range of certifications for software testers, including the Foundation Level, Agile Tester, and Advanced Level certifications.

• ASQ Certification: The American Society for Quality (ASQ) offers certifications for quality professionals, including the Certified Quality Auditor (CQA) and Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) certifications.

• Six Sigma Certification: Six Sigma is a methodology that focuses on process improvement and reducing defects. Obtaining a Six Sigma certification can be beneficial for QA professionals, as it demonstrates a strong understanding of quality management principles.

Take the time to research these certifications and determine which one aligns best with your career goals and interests.

Step 2: Meet the eligibility requirements

Once you've chosen a certification, you'll need to ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements. These requirements may vary depending on the certification you choose. For example, the ISTQB Foundation Level certification has no prerequisites, while the Advanced Level certifications require a certain level of experience and knowledge.

Make sure to carefully review the eligibility requirements for your chosen certification and ensure that you meet all the necessary criteria before proceeding.

Step 3: Prepare for the certification exam

Preparing for a certification exam is crucial to increase your chances of success. There are several resources available to help you study and prepare for your QA certification exam. Some of the most common study materials include:

• Official Study Guides: Many certification organizations provide official study guides that cover the exam syllabus and provide sample questions. These study guides are a great starting point for your exam preparation.

• Training Courses: Consider enrolling in a training course specifically designed to help you prepare for your certification exam. These courses often cover the exam syllabus in-depth and provide hands-on practice.

• Practice Exams: Take advantage of practice exams to familiarize yourself with the format and types of questions you may encounter. This will help you identify areas where you need to focus your studying.

Step 4: Schedule and take the exam

Once you feel confident in your knowledge and preparation, it's time to schedule and take the certification exam. Most certification exams are computer-based and can be taken at designated testing centers. Some organizations also offer the option to take the exam online from the comfort of your own home.

Make sure to review the exam requirements and guidelines provided by the certification organization. This will ensure that you have all the necessary documentation and are familiar with the exam rules and procedures.

Step 5: Maintain your certification

After successfully passing the certification exam, you'll need to maintain your certification by meeting the organization's continuing education requirements. These requirements may include earning a certain number of professional development units (PDUs) or participating in ongoing training and education.

It's important to stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends and best practices to maintain the relevancy of your certification. This can be done through attending conferences, workshops, and webinars, as well as reading industry publications and participating in online forums or communities.

How do I get a job as a Quality Assurance?

Now that you have your Quality Assurance certification, you may be wondering how to land a job in the field. The demand for QA professionals is steadily growing, making it an opportune time to pursue a career in this field. In this section, we'll explore some steps you can take to increase your chances of getting a job as a Quality Assurance professional.

Step 1: Gain relevant experience

While certification can boost your chances of landing a QA job, having relevant experience is equally important. Look for opportunities to gain hands-on experience in quality assurance, such as internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer work. Even if these positions are not specifically QA roles, they can still provide valuable experience in areas such as software testing, quality control, or process improvement.

Step 2: Build a strong resume

A well-crafted resume can significantly increase your chances of getting noticed by potential employers. Highlight your QA certification, relevant experience, and any specific skills or tools you have worked with. Be sure to tailor your resume to each job application, emphasizing the skills and experience that are most relevant to the position.

Consider including a summary or objective statement at the top of your resume to briefly highlight your qualifications and career goals. Additionally, provide specific examples of your accomplishments and contributions in previous roles to showcase your abilities.