How much does a Quality Assurance Specialist make?
A Quality Assurance Specialist plays a key role in ensuring products meet high standards. This role often comes with a rewarding salary. On average, a Quality Assurance Specialist earns about $69,330 per year. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and industry.
The salary range for Quality Assurance Specialists can be quite broad. At the lower end, some specialists earn around $35,000 annually. As experience grows, salaries can climb to over $140,000 per year. This range shows that there are many opportunities for growth and advancement in this field. Companies value the skills of Quality Assurance Specialists, which often leads to competitive salaries.
What are the highest paying cities for a Quality Assurance Specialist?

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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $97,558
In Washington, DC, professionals ensure top-notch quality in government and tech firms. Companies like Amazon and Microsoft offer exciting opportunities. The city's vibrant job market provides a dynamic environment for growth.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $92,977
San Francisco boasts a thriving tech scene with many leading companies. Working here means collaborating with top talent in a fast-paced environment. Companies like Google and Salesforce are always on the lookout for skilled specialists.
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Tallahassee, FL
Average Salary: $92,828
Tallahassee offers a mix of government and tech jobs. Working here means contributing to important projects in a supportive community. The city's growing tech sector provides many opportunities for career advancement.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $89,458
San Jose is the heart of Silicon Valley, home to many tech giants. Working here means being at the forefront of innovation. Companies like Apple and Cisco offer exciting career paths for specialists.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $89,249
Boston offers a blend of tech and traditional industries. Working here means being part of a historic city with a modern job market. Companies like IBM and Fidelity provide many opportunities for quality assurance roles.
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Stamford, CT
Average Salary: $86,087
Stamford is known for its corporate headquarters and financial services. Working here means being part of a professional and dynamic environment. Companies like GE and Charter Communications offer stable and rewarding careers.
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Des Moines, IA
Average Salary: $84,888
Des Moines offers a mix of insurance and tech companies. Working here means being part of a growing industry. Companies like Principal Financial Group and Wells Fargo provide many opportunities for specialists.
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Huntsville, AL
Average Salary: $84,448
Huntsville is a hub for aerospace and tech companies. Working here means being part of cutting-edge projects. Companies like NASA and Lockheed Martin offer exciting career paths.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $82,923
Seattle is known for its tech and coffee culture. Working here means being part of a vibrant community. Companies like Amazon and Microsoft offer many opportunities for specialists.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $82,462
Los Angeles offers a diverse job market with many entertainment and tech companies. Working here means being part of a creative and dynamic environment. Companies like Disney and Sony provide exciting career opportunities.
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What are the best companies a Quality Assurance Specialist can work for?

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CACI International
Average Salary: $141,174
CACI International offers exciting opportunities for Quality Assurance Specialists. They work in various locations, including Arlington, VA, and Colorado Springs, CO. At CACI, you will ensure the quality of software and systems. They value skilled professionals who can help maintain high standards.
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Citi
Average Salary: $140,921
Citi provides a dynamic environment for Quality Assurance Specialists. They operate in cities like New York, NY, and Tampa, FL. At Citi, you will focus on testing and improving financial software. They seek dedicated professionals who can help ensure the reliability of their systems.
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General Dynamics Information Technology
Average Salary: $135,485
General Dynamics Information Technology offers rewarding roles for Quality Assurance Specialists. They have offices in Falls Church, VA, and Hanover, MD. At GDIT, you will work on testing and validating IT systems. They look for skilled professionals who can help maintain the quality of their projects.
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Genentech
Average Salary: $116,920
Genentech provides a supportive environment for Quality Assurance Specialists. They operate in South San Francisco, CA. At Genentech, you will focus on ensuring the quality of biotechnology products. They seek professionals who can help maintain the high standards of their research and development.
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Abbott
Average Salary: $116,331
Abbott offers diverse opportunities for Quality Assurance Specialists. They have locations in Abbott Park, IL, and Irving, TX. At Abbott, you will work on testing and improving medical devices. They look for skilled professionals who can help ensure the safety and quality of their products.
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SAIC
Average Salary: $112,991
SAIC provides a challenging environment for Quality Assurance Specialists. They operate in locations like Reston, VA, and San Diego, CA. At SAIC, you will focus on testing and validating defense and security systems. They seek dedicated professionals who can help maintain the quality of their projects.
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Noblis
Average Salary: $104,857
Noblis offers rewarding roles for Quality Assurance Specialists. They have offices in Falls Church, VA, and McLean, VA. At Noblis, you will work on testing and improving government IT systems. They look for skilled professionals who can help ensure the quality of their projects.
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Information Technology Services, Office of
Average Salary: $103,520
The Office of Information Technology Services offers a supportive environment for Quality Assurance Specialists. They operate in Washington, DC. At OITS, you will focus on testing and improving government IT systems. They seek dedicated professionals who can help maintain the quality of their projects.
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CGI
Average Salary: $103,303
CGI provides a dynamic environment for Quality Assurance Specialists. They have offices in locations like Atlanta, GA, and Toronto, Canada. At CGI, you will work on testing and improving IT systems. They look for skilled professionals who can help ensure the quality of their projects.
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U.S. Bank
Average Salary: $102,812
U.S. Bank offers rewarding roles for Quality Assurance Specialists. They operate in cities like Minneapolis, MN, and Phoenix, AZ. At U.S. Bank, you will focus on testing and improving financial software. They seek dedicated professionals who can help ensure the reliability of their systems.
How to earn more as a Quality Assurance Specialist?
A Quality Assurance Specialist can increase their earnings by focusing on several key areas. Gaining specialized certifications can lead to higher-paying positions. Certifications such as Certified Quality Auditor (CQA) or Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) can make a candidate more attractive to employers. These credentials show a commitment to the field and a deeper understanding of quality assurance practices.
Experience plays a crucial role in salary negotiations. Specialists with more years in the industry often command higher salaries. Working on diverse projects and gaining a broad range of experiences can also open up opportunities for promotions and higher-paying roles. Networking within the industry can lead to discovering new job opportunities that offer better compensation. Attending industry conferences, joining professional organizations, and connecting with peers can provide valuable insights and potential job leads. Finally, seeking roles in high-demand industries or regions can also lead to higher earnings. Areas with a shortage of skilled QA specialists often offer competitive salaries to attract talent.
Here are five factors to consider for earning more as a Quality Assurance Specialist:
- Obtain specialized certifications.
- Gain more years of experience.
- Network within the industry.
- Seek roles in high-demand areas.
- Work on diverse projects.



