As a fresher in automation testing in Chennai, you can expect a starting salary between ₹2.5 to ₹4.5 LPA. With certifications, internship experience, and strong knowledge in Selenium, Playwright, or other tools, it may go up to ₹6 LPA at top tech companies.
What Is the Starting Salary for Automation Testing Freshers in Chennai?
The salary for a fresher in automation testing in Chennai usually ranges between ₹2.5 LPA and ₹4.5 LPA. Entry-level roles typically include job titles like QA Tester, Automation Engineer, or Software Tester.
Some top companies hiring freshers in Chennai include:
Average salary for automation testing freshers in Chennai is ₹3.6 LPA.
What Factors Affect a Fresher’s Salary in Automation Testing?
- Skill set: Proficiency in tools like Selenium, Playwright, TestNG, or Cypress
- Programming languages: Java, Python, or JavaScript basics
- Certifications: ISTQB, or Testleaf certifications
- Educational background: Tier 1 colleges may have better placement offers
- Internship/Projects: Real-time experience counts
- Soft skills: Communication and teamwork
- Availability: Immediate joiners are often prioritized
Average Salary Based on Company Type
| Company Type | Salary Range (LPA) |
| MNCs (Infosys, TCS) | ₹3.2 – ₹4.5 LPA |
| Product Companies | ₹4 – ₹6 LPA |
| Startups | ₹2.5 – ₹3.5 LPA |
| Freelance/Internship | ₹1.5 – ₹2.5 LPA (stipend) |
How to Increase Your Starting Package?
- Complete a certification course from Testleaf
- Work on open-source or real-time automation projects
- Build a public GitHub portfolio
- Attend industry mock interviews
- Learn frameworks like Selenium + TestNG, or Playwright with JavaScript
- Participate in hackathons or coding contests
- Improve soft skills through communication workshops
Pro tip: Mention projects during interviews. It shows real experience even if you are a fresher.
Real Salary Range Shared by Chennai Freshers (Testleaf Alumni Insights)
- “I got ₹4.2 LPA as a fresher after completing the Selenium Bootcamp at Testleaf. The mock interviews really helped!” – Karthik R., Velachery
- “Thanks to the hands-on project guidance, I got selected in an MNC at ₹3.8 LPA.” – Revathi S., Anna Nagar
- “I didn’t know coding before. But after completing the Java + Automation course at Testleaf, I joined a startup at ₹4.5 LPA.” – Arun M., T. Nagar
Final Thoughts: What Should You Aim For?
Don’t worry only about numbers. Focus on your learning journey. A good foundation in automation tools, solid communication, and real project experience will naturally lead to a higher salary.
At Testleaf, we’ve helped over 50,000+ freshers land their first automation testing job across Chennai and India.
We offer range of automation testing courses includes ( give internal links to courses )
- Selenium Training
- Playwright Automation Training
- Appium Automation Training
- Rest API Testing Training
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I get a 5 LPA package as a fresher in automation testing in Chennai?
Yes, if you have hands-on experience, strong communication, and relevant certifications.
Is automation testing a good career in Chennai for freshers?
Yes, with Chennai’s growing IT sector and startup ecosystem, it’s a strong career path.
Do freshers need coding knowledge for automation testing jobs?
Yes, basics of Java or Python are often required to write and maintain test scripts.
Which companies give highest salary for freshers in QA automation?
Product-based companies like Zoho, Freshworks, and startups in IIT-M Research Park usually offer higher packages.
Author’s Bio:
As CEO of TestLeaf, I’m dedicated to transforming software testing by empowering individuals with real-world skills and advanced technology. With 24+ years in software engineering, I lead our mission to shape local talent into global software professionals. Join us in redefining the future of test engineering and making a lasting impact in the tech world.
Babu Manickam
CEO – Testleaf
