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Software Tester Jobs in Federal Way, WA (NOW HIRING)

Software Test Engineer

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$60 - $78/hr

Perform manual testing of our applications * Create and execute test plans * Track bugs and other software issues through the entire development workflow * Replicate and document bugs reported in the ...

Integrate automated testing into CI/CD pipelines to support continuous quality and faster releases. * Validate applications across cloud-based environments and multiple system integrations.

Integrate automated testing into CI/CD pipelines to support continuous quality and faster releases. * Validate applications across cloud-based environments and multiple system integrations.

Integrate automated testing into CI/CD pipelines to support continuous quality and faster releases. * Validate applications across cloud-based environments and multiple system integrations.

Integrate automated testing into CI/CD pipelines to support continuous quality and faster releases. * Validate applications across cloud-based environments and multiple system integrations.

Integrate automated testing into CI/CD pipelines to support continuous quality and faster releases. * Validate applications across cloud-based environments and multiple system integrations.

Integrate automated testing into CI/CD pipelines to support continuous quality and faster releases. * Validate applications across cloud-based environments and multiple system integrations.

Integrate automated testing into CI/CD pipelines to support continuous quality and faster releases. * Validate applications across cloud-based environments and multiple system integrations.

Integrate automated testing into CI/CD pipelines to support continuous quality and faster releases. * Validate applications across cloud-based environments and multiple system integrations.

Integrate automated testing into CI/CD pipelines to support continuous quality and faster releases. * Validate applications across cloud-based environments and multiple system integrations.

Integrate automated testing into CI/CD pipelines to support continuous quality and faster releases. * Validate applications across cloud-based environments and multiple system integrations.

Integrate automated testing into CI/CD pipelines to support continuous quality and faster releases. * Validate applications across cloud-based environments and multiple system integrations.

Integrate automated testing into CI/CD pipelines to support continuous quality and faster releases. * Validate applications across cloud-based environments and multiple system integrations.

Integrate automated testing into CI/CD pipelines to support continuous quality and faster releases. * Validate applications across cloud-based environments and multiple system integrations.

Integrate automated testing into CI/CD pipelines to support continuous quality and faster releases. * Validate applications across cloud-based environments and multiple system integrations.

Integrate automated testing into CI/CD pipelines to support continuous quality and faster releases. * Validate applications across cloud-based environments and multiple system integrations.

Integrate automated testing into CI/CD pipelines to support continuous quality and faster releases. * Validate applications across cloud-based environments and multiple system integrations.

Integrate automated testing into CI/CD pipelines to support continuous quality and faster releases. * Validate applications across cloud-based environments and multiple system integrations.

Integrate automated testing into CI/CD pipelines to support continuous quality and faster releases. * Validate applications across cloud-based environments and multiple system integrations.

Showing results 21-40

Software Tester information

See Federal Way, WA salary details

$21

$48

$78

How much do software tester jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for software tester in Federal Way, WA is $48.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37.31 and $58.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a software tester?

A software tester conducts the QA (quality assurance) testing phase of the project lifecycle. Responsibilities include examining software or websites as a user would—as it will be used post-release. During these test cases, the software tester records any issues (“bugs”) and reports them to the development team so they can be fixed. A software tester explores the software with a critical mindset, assesses the functionality and overall experience, and reports their findings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a software tester, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Software Tester, you need a solid understanding of software development life cycles, attention to detail, and knowledge of testing methodologies, often supported by a degree in computer science or related certifications. Familiarity with testing tools such as Selenium, JIRA, and experience with automated and manual testing systems is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, effective communication, and problem-solving skills help testers identify, document, and resolve issues efficiently. These skills ensure software quality, minimize defects, and contribute to successful product releases.

What are some common challenges software testers face when collaborating with developers, and how can these be effectively addressed?

Software testers often encounter challenges such as communication gaps with developers, differences in understanding requirements, and tight deadlines for bug fixes. These issues can lead to misunderstandings about defect severity or unclear expectations regarding test coverage. Effective strategies include maintaining open, respectful communication, participating in agile ceremonies like daily stand-ups, and using collaborative tools to track issues and share feedback. Building strong professional relationships and fostering a culture of mutual respect greatly enhances teamwork and leads to higher-quality software.

What is the difference between Software Tester vs QA Analyst?

AspectSoftware TesterQA Analyst
CertificationsISTQB, CSTEISTQB, CSTE
Work EnvironmentTesting teams, development projectsQuality assurance teams, project management
Industry UsageSoftware companies, IT firmsSoftware companies, IT firms
Primary FocusExecuting test cases, finding bugsDesigning test plans, process improvement

While both Software Testers and QA Analysts work to ensure software quality, Software Testers primarily focus on executing test cases and identifying bugs. QA Analysts take a broader role in designing testing strategies and improving quality processes. Both roles require similar certifications and are integral to software development teams, but their responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

How much do software testers get paid?

Software testers' salaries vary based on experience, location, and industry, but the average annual pay ranges from $50,000 to $80,000. Entry-level testers typically earn less, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries, especially in competitive markets or with experience in automation tools.

Is a software tester a difficult job?

A software tester's job involves identifying bugs and verifying software functionality, which can be challenging depending on project complexity and deadlines. It requires attention to detail, knowledge of testing tools, and often involves repetitive tasks, but it can be manageable with experience and proper training.

Is software testing still in demand?

Software testing remains in demand as companies prioritize quality assurance and software reliability. Testers with skills in automation tools like Selenium and scripting are especially sought after, and the role is expected to grow with ongoing technological advancements.

What are the most commonly searched types of Software Tester jobs in Federal Way, WA?

The most popular types of Software Tester jobs in Federal Way, WA are:

What are popular job titles related to Software Tester jobs in Federal Way, WA?

For Software Tester jobs in Federal Way, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Federal Way, WA are hiring for Software Tester jobs?

Cities near Federal Way, WA with the most Software Tester job openings:

Infographic showing various Software Tester job openings in Federal Way, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,054 per year, or $48.6 per hour.

Software Test Engineer

Tecolote Research, Inc.

Tacoma, WA • On-site

$60 - $78/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

We are seeking a Software Test Engineer to join our software development team in Tacoma, WA. This role is ideal for a quality professional who thrives in a dynamic environment, can manage multiple priorities, and is passionate about driving quality excellence. You will support QA activities for a data-heavy enterprise web application with complex workflows, including: manual testing, replication of defects, and creation of test plans. This role is primarily focused on manual testing, with some time spent writing automated tests. You’ll enjoy working in our dynamic development team in a casual, supportive, and collaborative environment with flexible hours. Ability to work in person full time in Tacoma, WA is essential.

Responsibilities
  • Perform manual testing of our applications
  • Create and execute test plans
  • Track bugs and other software issues through the entire development workflow
  • Replicate and document bugs reported in the field
  • Generate example datasets to use in testing our data ingestion and parsing tools
  • Code automated tests
  • Assist the requirements team in reviewing new feature documentation and adding steps as needed
  • Participate in Agile/Scrum process to meet sprint release schedules
  • Make feature suggestions that would improve the end-user experience
Skills Required

This position requires strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, excellent communication skills, familiarity with software development fundamentals, and the ability to work independently while partnering effectively with multiple stakeholders. You will augment your QA efforts with AI- assisted coding tools to accelerate development of test plans, generation of edge cases, and contribution to automated tests, while maintaining ownership of work quality, decisions, and correctness (our team engages AI as a force multiplier for our development team, not a substitute for engineering judgment)

  • 1-4 years of experience in software testing or software development, ideally in web applications
  • Solid understanding of the software development lifecycle and test methodologies
  • Experience using requirements/bug/agile tracking systems such as Azure DevOps, JIRA, etc.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to understand, describe and test complex application functionality
  • Basic programming or scripting experience (in any language), or experience writing automated tests
  • The ability to obtain and maintain the proper security clearance (Secret level) is required
  • U.S. citizenship is required
Preferred / Nice-to-Have:
  • Experience writing automated tests using a modern test automation or API testing tool (e.g.,
  • Playwright, Selenium, Postman)
  • Experience testing for Accessibility (Section 508, WCAG 2.0, etc.)
  • Technical writing skills
  • Experience working with complex data
  • Openness to adopting new tools and workflows, including AI-assisted coding tools, as a complement to strong core testing fundamentals

Salary Range: $60,000 - $77,500/Year, DOE

Education

A bachelor’s degree in computer science (or other relevant concentration) required. An additional three years of directly relevant software development experience may substitute for the degree requirement.

Full-TimeSecurityClearanceEntry-LevelOn-site

We offer competitive salaries commensurate with education and experience. We have an excellent benefits package that includes:

Health & WelfareCompany Paid
  • Major Medical Insurance for employees and family members
  • Dental Insurance for employees and family members
  • Vision Insurance for employees (employee-paid for family members)
  • Group Life Insurance
  • Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance
  • Travel Accident Insurance
  • Long-Term Disability
Voluntary
  • Short-Term Disability
  • Supplemental Life Insurance
  • Flexible Spending Account (pre-tax deferrals for health care expenses)
Retirement
  • Money Purchase Pension Plan - 100% Company funded defined contribution retirement plan. One-year entry waiting period and 5-year vesting. Core Funds available and a self-directed brokerage account option.
  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan - 100% Company funded discretionary contribution. 100% vested after one-year entry waiting period.
Time Off

Tecolote’s generous paid time off benefits give employees the flexibility they need to relax, recharge and take care of the unexpected.

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