How QA / Test Engineers in Montana get paid in 2026 — median, range, experience tiers, metro breakdown, and a comparison against national pay.
Pay tiers reflect typical Montana compensation across career stages. Specialized employers may pay above these ranges.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $61,900 | $47,100 | $80,500 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $76,900 | $58,500 | $100,100 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $88,500 | $67,300 | $115,100 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $106,200 | $80,700 | $138,100 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $120,300 | $91,500 | $156,500 |
Top occupations by median pay in Montana — useful context if you're weighing a career switch.
If you'd consider relocating, here's how regional and comparable markets pay for the same job.
The average QA / Test Engineer salary in Montana is $88,500 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $67,300 and the 75th at $115,100.
Pay-wise, Montana sits -14% below the national QA / Test Engineer median ($103,000). Wages run below the national median, but cost of living is often correspondingly lower; net purchasing power may be similar to higher-paying states.
Senior QA / Test Engineers (10–14 years of experience) in Montana earn around $106,200 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $120,300 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), Montana ranks 40th for QA / Test Engineer pay. The highest-paying state pays around $144,100 on average.
The median is a benchmark, not a verdict. Your exact market value depends on your experience and education — plus your specific employer's pay band. Run the free calculator for a personalized number.
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