Job Responsibilities
I am a software testing consultant specialising in automated
software testing. I write test strategies, test plans and test
scripts most of the time (around 3 days in 5 a week). The rest
of the time is spent developing automated test scripts for
performance testing using the LoadRunner test tool and enhancing
it with C code, and working with business analysts, developers,
technical architects and DBA's.
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Job Requirements
The requirements for hiring was a degree in Software Engineering
or a numerate degree such as engineering with a minimum class of
2i. My degree is in Mechanical engineering which was mostly
about applied mathematics and not practical enough for
engineering in the real world. The degree was very demanding and
80% of the content was not useful in industry.
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Uppers
The main advantage is the variety in working on different projects for various,
quality clients in different industry sectors. This keeps my job interesting as
each new assignment is a fresh challenge. I also get to work with different
people and different technologies which is very interesting.
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Downers
The travelling required when working on assingment away from
home and being away for months has an impact on my personal life
where, most of the weekend is lost travelling. The short notice
given for new assignments and last monute changes in decisions
by clients and companies can be very annoying, especially when
trying to make travel and accomodation arrangements.
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Lifestyle
A lot of travelling around the country and sometimes, international travel is
required so, flexibility and mobility is a must and makes the working week
longer. This is not a job for people who like routine. The working hours, dress
code and social events vary according to the client you are working with. Because
of the variety, you tend not to form lasting relationships with people you work
with.
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Compensation
I get a basic salary of ??31K plus a daily bonus for every day I
am utilised (doing fee earning work) which brings my salary to a
total of ??38K annually if I'm utilised the whole year. I receive
an annual bonus and stock options as well, but no company
pension, healthcare scheme or company car.
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Advice to Jobseekers
I would suggest that people with many years experience go into
consulting rather than new graduates who are better off joining
a graduate scheme at a blue-chip company in a particular
industry sector. Also, consulting is best suited to people who
are flexible and mobile. It is not recommended for people with
family commitments as it involves being away from home. Beware
that in big consultancies, there is a lot of politics and your
progression depends on who you know, not what you know. Also,
everything depends on how senior you are rather than your
abilities and talent.
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