Automation index
How much of a QA tester’s job can AI already do?
Today an AI can already do 38% of this job. Architecture, the hard calls, and review still need someone who has broken production.
This percentage does not predict how many people will lose their jobs.
Task comparison
IS WORK OVER?
QA tester
38%
AI can already do 38% of this job.
#11 / 623
View rankingQA tester
Where the time goes
Task weights are our estimates based on O*NET frequency data, not time shares published by O*NET.
The time saving for each task is estimated separately.
| Task | Share | AI | Points |
|---|---|---|---|
Identify, analyze, and document problems with program function, output, online screen, or content.EstimateNo public source provides a precise figure. This is our estimate. | 12% | 55% | +6.6 |
Document software defects, using a bug tracking system, and report defects to software developers.EstimateNo public source provides a precise figure. This is our estimate. | 11% | 55% | +6.1 |
Install, maintain, or use software testing programs.EstimateNo public source provides a precise figure. This is our estimate. | 8% | 28% | +2.2 |
Monitor program performance to ensure efficient and problem-free operations.EstimateNo public source provides a precise figure. This is our estimate. | 6% | 28% | +1.7 |
Develop testing programs that address areas such as database impacts, software scenarios, regression testing, negative testing, error or bug retests, or usability.EstimateNo public source provides a precise figure. This is our estimate. | 6% | 48% | +2.9 |
Document test procedures to ensure replicability and compliance with standards.EstimateNo public source provides a precise figure. This is our estimate. | 6% | 55% | +3.3 |
Create or maintain databases of known test defects.EstimateNo public source provides a precise figure. This is our estimate. | 6% | 48% | +2.9 |
Provide feedback and recommendations to developers on software usability and functionality.EstimateNo public source provides a precise figure. This is our estimate. | 6% | 28% | +1.7 |
Other less frequent tasks (weight estimated from frequency).EstimateNo public source provides a precise figure. This is our estimate. | 39% | 28% | +10.9 |
| Total | 100% | 38% |
Modelled workweek: 100% · Public evidence: 0% · Estimate: 100% · Confidence: Low
Skills and activities
- internal risk management policy
- ICT quality policy
- software anomalies
- levels of software testing
- quality standards
- quality assurance methodologies
- ICT process quality models
- set quality assurance objectives
- ensure continuous preparedness for audits
- comply with legal regulations
Sources for this job· O*NET 15-1253.00· ESCO/ISCO 2519
IS WORK OVER?
Penetration tester
26%
#207 / 623
View rankingPenetration tester
Where the time goes
Task weights are our estimates based on O*NET frequency data, not time shares published by O*NET.
The time saving for each task is estimated separately.
| Task | Share | AI | Points |
|---|---|---|---|
Recon, scans and enumeration.EstimateNo public source provides a precise figure. This is our estimate. | 20% | 42% | +8.4 |
Write the report, evidence and CVSS.EstimateNo public source provides a precise figure. This is our estimate. | 18% | 38% | +6.8 |
Exploit with judgment and not break the business.EstimateNo public source provides a precise figure. This is our estimate. | 18% | 18% | +3.2 |
Debrief with the client and retest.EstimateNo public source provides a precise figure. This is our estimate. | 16% | 15% | +2.4 |
Choose scope, rules and what is off limits.EstimateNo public source provides a precise figure. This is our estimate. | 14% | 16% | +2.2 |
Research 0-days, labs and keep the craft.EstimateNo public source provides a precise figure. This is our estimate. | 14% | 18% | +2.5 |
| Total | 100% | 25% |
Modelled workweek: 100% · Public evidence: 0% · Estimate: 100% · Confidence: Low
Skills and activities
- Recon, scans and enumeration
- Write the report, evidence and CVSS
- Debrief with the client and retest
- Choose scope, rules and what is off limits
- Research 0-days, labs and keep the craft
- pentester
- ethical hacker
- pentest
Sources for this job· O*NET 15-1212.00· ESCO/ISCO 2529