Is Quality Assurance A Good Career Path In 2021?

09 October 2021

Is Quality Assurance A Good Career Path in 2021? How many jobs are available in the quality assurance industry? What are the best paying jobs in the quality assurance sector? Let’s discuss these in detail.

Quality control officers may also be referred to as samplers, inspectors, and testers. A rise in the demand for software products has given a lift to tech businesses like never before. Individuals who are specialized in quality assurance can be guaranteed a steady and reliable job.

The job of quality assurance is to prevent bad software from being seen by customers or users. Quality assurance engineers are responsible for making sure the code other developers write is up to a certain standard. Let’s discuss the same in detail.

What Is Quality Assurance?

Quality assurance is the process of evaluating a product to determine its ability to meet requirements. Those individuals who work in quality assurance discover a process for creating and testing products before production or release.

Businesses either small or big, need quality assurance experts in order to meet the needs of the audience. A good quality product can increase your brand visibility and trust in the long run.

Popular firms who are willing to stay ahead in their business cannot afford the absence of quality assurance experts. So they make sure that other developers meet their deadlines and inform other developers of issues in their code.

What Is Quality Assurance Used For?

The main objective of quality assurance is to distinguish bugs and potential problems within the software. The primary role of QA engineers is to:

Document test cases
Track test results
Perform manual and Automated Testing
Identify any issues that users may encounter
Create policies and standards to ensure high-quality code
Discover problems or bugs within a program
Create software test plans
Code automated tests

Types Of Quality Assurance

Quality assurance engineers oversee feature testing and system testing. If you are willing to grow your career path in quality assurance, then you must consider the following types of quality assurance engineers and their duties:

i). Usability Testing

Quality assurance engineers test the usability of the product before its release. This test lets the team view how well the product is received and make all the end changes before the product is launched. Moreover, this test makes sure that the product functions in the way a customer expects.

ii). Feature Testingsting

Feature testing is done before an application is updated. The engineers who are performing this work must find any problems or bad user experiences that come from the updated software.

iii). Integration Testing

Integration testing is another type of Quality assurance that explores the several components of an application. At first, it evaluates how the individual component works and how it is tested as a whole. This is usually done before system testing.

iv). System Testing

This testing is a form of quality assurance that is done on a full project. It is actually the last test done before the product is released into the market. Moreover, it ensures all components of the software function properly.

Is Quality Assurance A Good Career Path In 2021

The answer to this question is an absolute Yes. Quality assurance is a good career path in the long run because this testing is in high demand, and testers get good pay.

If you have good experience in the quality assurance industry, you can upgrade your profile as well as your skills. It is also relatively easy to come back after a career gap. These specialists are very important in an organization because they help in making the reputation of a brand grow and prove its dedication to excellent goods and services.

If you have decided to become a quality assurance, then the first thing you need to consider is how much education you need. You may discover that other jobs can also help you to become a quality assurance.

How Many Jobs Are Available in Quality Assurance Industry?

According to our research, about 55k openings for quality control inspectors are projected each year, despite declining employment. Moreover, demand for Software Quality Assurance Engineers and Testers is expected to go up with an expected more than three lakhs jobs filled by 2029.

Now, let’s discuss the best paying jobs in the quality assurance industry in 2021.

i). Test Engineer

A test engineer develops assessments that firms use for all production processes. They also create effective plans for evaluation with the design and testing team.

These engineers develop proper documentation guidelines in order to make sure that the teams can replicate results.

ii). Project Manager

Project Manager is another best paying job in the quality assurance sector. These managers oversee the entire production process.

They develop a project plan, goal, requirements, and necessary resources to meet the company’s objectives. At the same time, they monitor their progress, assign project tasks, and plan to their team.

iii). Quality Assurance Tester

A Quality Assurance Tester performs evaluations to identify defects in a product.

They use debugging programs to help identify issues in thousands of lines of code and communicate results to the rest of the team to get the solutions.

iv). Quality Assurance Analyst

Quality Assurance Analyst is one of the best paying jobs in this sector. These individuals oversee the complete testing process for products.

They prepare for possible external audits and executes internal auditing tests. Also, they make sure that the products produce the right results.

The Final Verdict

Is Quality Assurance A Good Career Path In 2021? You have now got an answer to this question with top reasons why you should pursue this industry in the long run. Quality assurance professionals are required by all manufacturers to make sure that all products are of premium quality.

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How Many Jobs Are Available in Consumer Services in 2024?

How many jobs are available in consumer services? There are multiple types of jobs in consumer services, and you will have various career opportunities in the industry. Apart from that, most industries in this field offer many opportunities for job growth. Moreover, the US BLS states that there is much potential for new jobs in these areas. In this article, you will learn about how many jobs are available in consumer services. Apart from that, you will also learn about the major job options in this industry. This article also gives you a brief description of the major jobs in this field. Hence, to learn more, read on to the end of the article. What are Consumer Services? According to Indeed.com, “The consumer services field is a sector that focuses on assisting individuals rather than organizations or other businesses. Experts in this field can use human resources, computers, and information technology (IT) to assist customers.” From a business perspective, consumer services have changed their meaning a bit. Here, it includes strategies and processes that a business uses to offer goods and services to people. Here, the transaction is B2C and not B2B. In these cases, businesses do not offer goods and services to other businesses. Basically, the major aim of consumer services is to ensure that the business meets the needs and demands of its customers. Actually, there are a variety of industries that offer consumer services to businesses. These include: Retail Healthcare Hospitality Finance Education Most consumer service companies fall under these industries. Major Industries That Involve Consumer Services The following are the major industries that involve consumer services: Retail Businesses Food and restaurants Transportation and Logistics Travel and Hospitality ECommerce Finance, Insurance, and Banking Telecom Industry Requirements to Work Within Consumer Services Here are the major skills you must have if you want to work within consumer services: Effective communication Problem-solving abilities Active listening Basic technical and software skills Conflict resolution Ability to remain calm under pressure Impact of Automation on Consumer Services: Pros and Cons The following are the major pros and cons of the impact of automation in consumer services: Pros Here are the major pros of automation that benefits consumer services: Better customer experience Higher productivity and efficiency Low chances of human error Cost reduction Customer support even after employee hours Lower pressure on customer service teams Cons Here are a few cons of the automation that negatively impacts consumer services: Job displacement and unemployment Lack of human interaction Technical glitches A lot of dependence on technology Cost of initial implementation How Many Jobs Are Available in Consumer Services in 2024? According to the BLS, employment in consumer services will decline from 2021 to 2031. This is mainly due to the introduction of AI in multiple business processes. However, there are still huge job openings in the industry. For instance, the sector has an average job opening of 390K annually (approx.) However, these are projected openings. Generally, they come from the need to replace employees transitioning out of the industry. Or it includes the ones who are retiring from the workforce. Apart from that, there are some consumer services fields and roles where you will find differences in occupational outlooks. For instance, when it comes to roles like customer service and sales reps, you will see a growth of 4% in the coming decade. On the other hand, sales management roles will see an increase of 5%. On the other hand, professionals who work in the consumer services fields like digital marketing advertising, and promotion expect a 7% increase in jobs. Top 5 Jobs in Consumer Services If you are someone who is looking for jobs in consumer services, the following positions integrate people and money. The following are some of the most popular and important jobs that you will find in consumer services: 1. Concierge Generally, you will find concierges across the hospitality industry and in other sectors as well. However, you will commonly find them in hotels, lodging, travel, and tourism. Basically, a concierge helps guests in tourist centers and hotels. Actually, they will assist customers with lodging and dining reservations. Apart from that, they are also common in transportation services, event planning, and activities. On the other hand, concierges also ensure visiting guests are comfortable. Also, they ensure enjoyable experiences when they stay. Average salary: $41,349 per year 2. Retail Sales Associate You will find retail sales associates assisting customers and providing support in a retail setting. Apart from that, they also answer customer questions. Basically, they play a massive role in customer service. This is to help their stores increase customer satisfaction and sales. According to Coursera, “A retail associate helps customers while they shop, answers questions, and assists in daily store operations. In this role, you serve as a representative of the retail brand and play an important role in the store’s overall success. Retail associates might also be referred to as sales associates or representatives.” Generally, these professionals can also advance in managerial roles. In such roles, they supervise their teams, which interact with their customers regularly. Average salary: $43,169 per year 3. Technical Support Specialist In general, a technical support specialist oversees different customer service tasks. These include answering customer questions and offering solutions to tech problems. Oftentimes, they work for tech companies and offer technical and computer support to customers. On the other hand, tech support professionals also specialize in niche areas. These include software, network, and data security. Average salary: $54,916 per year 4. Academic Adviser Indeed explains, “Academic advisers provide counseling services that help students determine the best academic studies and educational programs to meet their goals. They help students choose and plan out educational coursework, evaluate academic preparedness and provide guidance for academic success.” As the name suggests, academic advisers help students in their admission and placement processes. Generally, they work with admission offices and ensure students receive the necessary educational support. Actually, they work in a public or a private institution and essentially help students assess their career plans. While academic advisers help high school students and others offer guidance to college students. Average salary: $44,719 per year 5. Social Worker According to Coursera, “A social worker is a trained professional who works with all types of vulnerable people, groups, and communities to help them learn to live better lives. Social workers tend to work with populations suffering due to poverty, discrimination, or other social injustices.” Social workers have an important role in ensuring the safety and health of communities. You will find them often working with mental and health care professionals. Apart from that, they also help families and individuals to cope and overcome various challenges. These include illnesses, traumatic experiences, addiction, and disabilities. On the other hand, a social worker also works as a support system for families and individuals. They help them make lifestyle improvements and work towards healthy social goals. Average salary: $58,939 per year Getting a Job in Consumer Services: The Way Forward How many jobs are available in consumer services? Hope this article was helpful for you to get a better understanding of the number of jobs. If you want to work in consumer services, consider working towards your networking and communications skills. This way, you can increase your chances of selection. Do you have more information to share about consumer services? Please share them in the comments section below. Read Also: In Demand Jobs 2024: 11 Roles That Are Skyrocketing In The Job Market Copywriting Jobs 101: Essential Steps To Become A Copywriter

Benefits that Employees Actually Look For

As company culture is changing across US workplaces, potential employees are being more choosy about the things they’re looking for from an employer. Employees needs are different today, and so are the benefits people are looking for. To attract top talent, you’ll want to offer a strong benefits package with benefits employees are actually looking for. Recruiters are working harder to find top talent by helping companies create more attractive benefits offerings. Benefits Offerings Should Change With the Times In a recent survey by GlassDoor, approximately 60% of those asked said they strongly consider benefits and perks before accepting a job offer. A full 80% said they would prefer better benefits over a bump in pay and feel valued when employers offer good benefits. Job seekers are looking for a robust benefits package, that includes at least some of these. Benefits that Employees Actually Look For: Flexible Work Schedule: This might mean the ability to work from home or adjust your work schedule on occasion. The goal is for employees to achieve a better work-life balance, especially those with children. Companies like Netflix are leading the industry in employee flexibility, giving workers autonomy to create a schedule that works for them, while still being productive. It may mean that parents of young children come in earlier than their co-workers and leave earlier to pick their kids up. This flexibility also allows for self-care and a sense of independence and helps companies attract and retain top talent. Good Health Benefits: Employees are not interested in bare-bones, fall down and break something insurance policies or those with high deductibles. More businesses are listening and offering more benefit-rich insurance, with the option for Flexible Spending Accounts or a wider variety of plans to choose from. Employers can also opt to cover a portion of employee’s coverage as a benefit. Health insurance may be the most expensive perk that you can offer employees, but it is one of the most important. Better Vacation Time: Employees want to be able to take time off as needed. Americans are notoriously bad at using vacation days and leave $224 billion dollars in vacation time behind annually. More companies are beginning to adopt open, or unlimited, vacation policies. This can be a win-win for both employers and workers, saving an average of $1,898 per employee annually. Companies save time and money by no longer having to track employee vacation or having to pay out unused vacation days. Employees benefit by taking days as they need them, delivering more flexibility and autonomy. It sends a message to employees that the company trusts them to make their own decisions, so long as their work is not affected. Other Perks: Things like paying for parking, offering tuition assistance or a free gym membership also rank high on the list for employees. Small gestures like free snacks go a long way with employees, making them feel valued. If you aren’t working hard to create meaningful personal connections with your employees, you are making a mistake. Showing genuine interest in them, and their families if applicable, goes a long way. By offering meaningful benefits for your employees, you’ll boost morale, and retain a better workforce. Read Also: Is Your Company Offering Enough To Potential Employees? 5 Major Tips To Increase Employee Engagement In A Call Centre Industry

The What, Why, & How To Of Being A Phlebotomist In 2024?

Phlebotomists, also known as phlebotomy technicians, use venous or skin punctures to draw blood. These specialists are essential to the healthcare industry, especially when it comes to the diagnosis and treatment of illnesses. Phlebotomy services can be used by patients to receive transfusions, donate blood or plasma, or test for medical conditions. In addition, phlebotomy technicians have strict guidelines to follow when labeling biological samples, handling needles and other tools, and entering patient data into databases. These workers must execute their duties carefully and safely since they deal with biological samples. Engaging with patients and making a difference in their care is a rewarding experience for many phlebotomists. Phlebotomists who are kind can ease patients' anxieties about having their blood drawn, as many patients find the procedure uncomfortable. These technicians can also discuss the significance of blood collection Phlebotomist employment prospects appear to be favorable. According to BLS projections, employment in this field will increase by 22% between 2020 and 2030, while jobs in healthcare will grow by 16% and all occupations by 8% during the same period. Here is everything you need to know about how to become a phlebotomist. How to Become a Phlebotomist? Becoming a phlebotomist does require specialized training. Fast-paced work environments and frequent client interaction necessitate that professionals in the field possess the following qualities: Although phlebotomists are frequently employed in laboratory environments, some have more flexibility in their work environment when they work for ambulatory services. They might still have to put in overtime or on the weekends, for example, if they work in a lab. Learn more about how to become a phlebotomist in this article, along with the procedures for obtaining national certification and education. Requirements on How to Become a Phlebotomist Before getting into the details of how to become a phlebotomist let us clear up the basics. Candidates must earn a GED or complete their high school education. It could be beneficial to take science and anatomy classes in high school. After that, people can enroll in phlebotomy programs, which typically leads to certification after 4–8 months of training. Community colleges, technical schools, and trade schools all offer these kinds of programs. To practice, phlebotomy graduates in California, Louisiana, Nevada, and Washington must obtain certification. To improve their chances of finding work, professionals in other states should still think about obtaining a postsecondary credential. Phlebotomists have access to a range of certifications, such as: Certified Phlebotomy Technician I: Trains medical personnel to take blood samples via venous and skin punctures. Certified Phlebotomy Technician II: Trains medical personnel to perform venous, arterial, and skin punctures to collect blood. Limited Phlebotomy Technician: Someone who trains medical professionals to take blood via skin punctures. Certification and Licensure Acquiring certification to become a phlebotomist requires a written and practical exam. The test will include about 300 questions. The clinical component will include a demonstration of sample labeling, skin, and venous blood draws, and sanitization procedures. Phlebotomists can then acquire the certification from different organizations, such as: American Society for Clinical Pathology National Center for Competency Testing American Certification Agency for Healthcare Professionals American Medical Technologists National Healthcareer Association National Phlebotomy Association American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians To stay up to date in their field, phlebotomists—especially those who need to renew their certification—must complete continuing education. The requirements for ongoing phlebotomist training vary by state, but most professionals must earn roughly six credits of continuing education annually. To fulfill these requirements, phlebotomists might be able to enroll in classes at community colleges or vocational schools or attend conferences. Training to Become a Phlebotomist Learning how to become a phlebotomist involves taking crucial courses and earning certification. Both laboratory experience and classroom instruction are prerequisites for certification programs. Topics including anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology, are typically covered in courses. Students may need to take prerequisite coursework if they are unable to demonstrate algebraic or mathematical proficiency at the high school level. While it's uncommon, some people with a high school or GED opt for on-the-job training rather than phlebotomy school. Phlebotomists are required by state regulations to follow certain guidelines regarding certification and ongoing education, regardless of their educational background. What Does a Phlebotomist Do? Before you want to know about how to become a phlebotomist, here is what you should know about what a phlebotomist does. A phlebotomist, another name for a phlebotomy technician, is a medical professional qualified to take blood samples from people. They might also help with blood drives and transfusions, depending on where they work. Apart from extracting blood from patients, they also process blood samples for analysis, gather patient data, and assist patients who might feel uneasy with needles. The main responsibility of a phlebotomist is to take blood samples from patients as directed by a physician or other healthcare provider. On the other hand, your practice might also involve labeling vials, checking vital signs, chatting with patients about the blood draw procedure, and maintaining a sterile and clean work area. During your shift, you might also be required to carry out the following tasks, depending on where you work: Gather data and make updates to patient medical records. Fill out the paperwork and mark the vials. Make patients more at ease while having their blood drawn. Place a supply order Arrange the necessary vials, needles, and other supplies in the work area. Joining a professional organization can benefit your career in the long run, even though most charge a membership fee. These organizations give you a route to certification, facilitate networking, and assist you in keeping up with new methods or regulations. National Phlebotomy Association The National Phlebotomy Association (NPA) provides workshops, training courses, and professional certifications, such as a credential for phlebotomy instructors, to facilitate continuing education. For full- and part-time jobs in phlebotomy and other allied health fields, the organization maintains a job board. American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians, Inc. The American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians, Inc. (ASPT) certifies both graduates of recognized programs and employed phlebotomy technicians. Members of NHA, ASCP, and AMT are eligible to receive benefits from the organization. Members have access to nonprofit events, cross-training workshops, and opportunities for ongoing education. Additionally, ASPT offers an EKG fundamentals program and a phlebotomy refresher course. There is a $65 exam fee and a $35 membership fee for phlebotomy technicians. National Healthcare Association (NHA) NHA offers phlebotomy technicians immersive learning opportunities in addition to professional certification. Practice drills, interactive games, and quizzes are among the available resources intended for educators and students. For allied health professionals, NHA offers a job board, resume review services, and career planning guidance. By showcasing and improving your skills, obtaining a professional certification can increase your marketability even if your state or employer does not require it. Examine the prerequisites for the following three popular certifications. Technician in Phlebotomy (PBT) There are various ways to become certified in PBT offered by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP). Candidates must possess one year of full-time clinical experience or have finished an authorized phlebotomy program within the previous five years. Programs must fulfill minimum instruction requirements, be approved by the California Department of Public Health, or accredited by NAACLS. In addition to paying a $145 application fee, candidates must pass an 80-question exam. Certified Technician in Phlebotomy (CPT) Candidates must successfully finish a phlebotomy training program or one to two years of supervised phlebotomy technician experience to be eligible for the National Healthcareer Association's CPT distinction. Blood collection, patient preparation, and safety and compliance are all covered in the two-hour certification exam. The exam is $125, and you can buy a study guide or practice test to get ready. Every two years, CPTs need to renew their certification by paying $179 and completing continuing education requirements. Colleges That Offer Phlebotomy as a Course Since phlebotomy students must acquire practical skills in blood withdrawal and collection, phlebotomy programs are typically offered on campus at educational institutions. The programs that prospective phlebotomists can find in the United States are listed below. However, keep in mind that this is just a small selection of all the programs that are offered all over the country. When you want to know how to become a phlebotomist, the college you must go to is an equally important aspect to consider. Abrams College The didactic component of Abrams College's phlebotomy program is offered over two weeks, on Saturdays and Sundays from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM and on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM in Modesto, California. This equates to 48 hours of classroom instruction. To proceed to the externship experience, students must pass all tests and complete all skill station requirements. The 40-hour externship takes place in a hospital or clinical laboratory. Students who complete the program receive a certificate and should be qualified to apply for both state and national licensure. Cuyahoga Community College Cleveland, Ohio's Cuyahoga Community College provides a short-term certificate program in laboratory phlebotomy. Students are trained in blood collection, specific blood collection techniques, medical terminology, ethics, and other related areas through a skills-based didactic curriculum. Students also need to finish an eight-week clinical externship at a hospital or clinic. Graduates of this NAACLS-accredited program have completed it with a 100% job placement rate and a cumulative 95% pass rate on certification exams over the last three years. Furthermore, transfer programs are offered to students who wish to graduate with a bachelor's degree from an institution in partnership. Iowa Western Community College The phlebotomy program at Iowa Western Community College in Council Bluffs consists of 120 hours of clinical experience and 80 hours of classroom instruction. The students receive their clinical placement assignments during the sixth week of the program. After finishing, they ought to be qualified to take the American Society for Clinical Pathology national certification exam. Students must adhere to a rigorous professional dress code and present documentation of their vaccinations upon admission to the program. Santa Fe College Students can finish the two-semester phlebotomy certificate program at Santa Fe College in Gainesville, Florida. In the first semester, students attend 60 hours of classroom instruction, and in the second semester, they complete 105 hours of clinical phlebotomy rotations. Students must pass a background investigation and have all necessary vaccinations to be admitted. This course also includes instruction on bloodborne pathogens, HIPAA compliance, and CPR certification. The NAACLS is requesting approval for this program. South Arkansas Community College Students enrolled in the one-semester program at South Arkansas Community College in El Dorado, Arkansas, are prepared for careers in phlebotomy. Students can obtain their certification in phlebotomy by completing seven credit hours of coursework in phlebotomy, professionalism, patient relations, and medical technology. In addition to working at least 100 clinical hours in designated healthcare facilities, students must complete 100 successful unaided collections and maintain a grade of C or higher in all courses. The practicum is set up by the program director. This program is accredited by NAACLS, and there is a 14-student maximum per class. Cost of Courses in Phlebotomy Programs for phlebotomy are reasonably priced when compared to the potential earnings. The cost of a course can vary from $700 to $3,000, based on the training duration and school. Students who want certification also need to pay a test fee, which ranges from $90 to $200. States that demand licensing will also pay an additional $58 to $200. According to data from the BLS (May 2022), the average hourly wage in this field was $19.51, or $40,580 per year. Phlebotomists mean wages were higher in California, Massachusetts, Washington, D.C., New York, and California—all over $46,900. Wrapping Up It can take a year or less to become a phlebotomist, depending on the educational program and whether the student wants to pursue national certification. It could take longer in some states because of the various certification requirements for employment in those states. The duration of education programs varies based on the type of school and program students enroll in, ranging from eight weeks to less than a year. Programs at community colleges might require more time, while those at vocational schools might be quicker. To receive a certificate or diploma and land a job, completing the program's didactic and clinical hours is necessary. Although it's usually not necessary, national certification can be useful when applying for jobs. Depending on the student's exam preparation and certification motivation, this could take several months or longer to finish. Nonetheless, there are typically time constraints on when a learner can sit for national certification after completing a program. Few states require certification, so working as a phlebotomist can be accomplished in less than a year—especially if the student enrolls in one of the faster-paced programs. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask about how to become a phlebotomist, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! We also have more information if you want to know how to become a pediatrician, a therapist, an orthodontist, an anesthesiologist, a psychologist, or a physician assistant. Learn More About: Therapist Or Psychiatrist: Which One Is Right For You? Life with Braces: Tips from Surrey’s Orthodontic Experts What Does A Career In Anesthesiology Look Like? Click To Know

Is Quality Assurance A Good Career Path In 2021?

What Is Quality Assurance?

What Is Quality Assurance Used For?