How QA / Test Engineers in New Jersey get paid in 2026 — median, range, experience tiers, metro breakdown, and a comparison against national pay.
Pay tiers reflect typical New Jersey compensation across career stages. Specialized employers may pay above these ranges.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $90,700 | $69,000 | $118,000 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $112,800 | $85,700 | $146,700 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $129,700 | $98,600 | $168,700 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $155,600 | $118,300 | $202,400 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $176,300 | $134,000 | $229,400 |
Top occupations by median pay in New Jersey — useful context if you're weighing a career switch.
→ See full ranking of top 25 highest-paying jobs in New Jersey
If you'd consider relocating, here's how regional and comparable markets pay for the same job.
The average QA / Test Engineer salary in New Jersey is $129,700 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $98,600 and the 75th at $168,700.
Pay-wise, New Jersey sits +26% above the national QA / Test Engineer median ($103,000). That makes it one of the stronger markets — though cost of living should always be factored in alongside raw salary.
Senior QA / Test Engineers (10–14 years of experience) in New Jersey earn around $155,600 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $176,300 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), New Jersey ranks 5th 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.
Get my personal salary report →