Lead Test Engineer / Test Lead / QA Lead / SDET
hackajob · United States
- Hybrid
- Full-time
- £65,000 / year
- United States
Job highlights
- Lead test strategy and execution in agile teams.
- Develop automated and manual test scripts.
- Manage and mentor a small team of testers.
- Collaborate with customers and stakeholders.
- Ensure high-quality software delivery.
About the role
About Kainos and the Opportunity
At Kainos, we’re problem solvers, innovators, and collaborators driven by a shared mission to create real impact. Whether we’re transforming digital services for millions, delivering cutting-edge Workday solutions, or pushing the boundaries of technology, we do it together. We believe in a people-first culture, where your ideas are valued, your growth is supported, and your contributions truly make a difference. Join us and be part of something bigger.
Main Purpose of the Role & Responsibilities in the Business
As a Lead Test Engineer (Consultant) at Kainos, you will be a technical leader and innovator in software testing. You will provide strong test leadership and direction within a multi-skilled agile team. Your responsibilities include taking charge of the strategy, design, and development of automated, manual, and non-functional tests to ensure the delivery of working application software that meets user needs and quality standards. In this fast-paced environment, you will make sound, reasoned decisions while learning new technologies and approaches with talented colleagues.
You will manage, coach, and develop a small team, focusing on employee performance and career development. You will also provide direction and leadership as the team solves challenging problems collaboratively. As a technical leader, you will interact with customers, share knowledge, and mentor those around you.
Minimum (Essential) Requirements
- Experience ensuring adequate test coverage in line with software testing principles and practices.
- Expertise in designing, creating, and maintaining test scripts and approaches, including manual and automated testing across all application layers and non-functional test coverage.
- Experience using open-source test automation technologies (e.g., Selenium, JUnit, TestNG, Cucumber, Cypress, Playwright) and configuring testing tools like Jenkins and/or TeamCity within a continuous integration environment.
- Practical knowledge of at least one object-oriented programming language (e.g., Java).
- A high level of technical awareness and a sound understanding of software architectures.
- Experience in managing others, setting objectives, giving feedback, and leading performance reviews.
- A passionate technologist keen to expand knowledge of the latest QA tools, tech, and methodologies.
Desirable Requirements
- Operating within a Test Lead role (or similar) on a medium-large sized Agile project.
- Demonstrable experience of effective stakeholder management and commercial awareness.
Embracing Our Differences
At Kainos, we believe in the power of diversity, equity, and inclusion. We are committed to building a team that is as diverse as the world we live in, where everyone is valued, respected, and given an equal chance to thrive. We actively seek talented people from all backgrounds. We also believe every candidate deserves a level playing field. Our friendly talent acquisition team is here to support you, so if you require any accommodations or adjustments, please reach out.
Key skills/competency
- Test Leadership
- Software Testing
- Agile Methodologies
- Test Automation
- Manual Testing
- Non-functional Testing
- CI/CD Tools (Jenkins, TeamCity)
- Programming Languages (Java)
- Stakeholder Management
- Quality Assurance
Skills & topics
- Lead Test Engineer
- Test Lead
- QA Lead
- SDET
- Software Testing
- Test Automation
- Agile
- Selenium
- Jenkins
- Java
How to get hired
- Tailor your resume: Highlight your test leadership, automation expertise (Selenium, etc.), and Agile project experience. Quantify achievements where possible.
- Showcase technical skills: Emphasize proficiency in object-oriented programming (like Java) and CI/CD tools (Jenkins, TeamCity).
- Demonstrate leadership: Provide examples of managing, coaching, and developing staff, including performance reviews.
- Prepare for interviews: Be ready to discuss your approach to test strategy, problem-solving in fast-paced environments, and customer interaction.
- Understand Kainos culture: Research their commitment to innovation, people-first approach, and diversity initiatives.
Technical preparation
Behavioral questions
Frequently asked questions
- What is the primary focus of a Lead Test Engineer at Kainos?
- The primary focus of a Lead Test Engineer at Kainos is to provide technical leadership and direction in software testing within an agile team. This includes developing test strategies, designing and implementing automated and manual tests, and ensuring the delivery of high-quality application software.
- What are the essential technical skills required for this Lead Test Engineer role at Kainos?
- Essential technical skills include experience with test automation open-source technologies (e.g., Selenium, Cypress), configuring CI/CD tools (Jenkins, TeamCity), practical knowledge of an object-oriented programming language (like Java), and a strong understanding of software architectures and testing principles.
- Does this Lead Test Engineer position involve people management?
- Yes, this role involves managing, coaching, and developing a small team of staff, including setting objectives, giving feedback, and leading performance reviews, with a focus on their career development.
- What kind of project experience is preferred for the Kainos Lead Test Engineer role?
- Experience operating within a Test Lead role on a medium-to-large sized Agile project is considered desirable. This indicates a capacity to handle complex projects and team dynamics within an Agile framework.
- How does Kainos support diversity and inclusion in its recruitment process for Lead Test Engineer roles?
- Kainos is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, actively seeking talented people from all backgrounds. They ensure a level playing field and offer support for candidates requiring accommodations or adjustments during the recruitment process.
- What is the expected level of customer interaction for a Lead Test Engineer at Kainos?
- As a technical leader, the Lead Test Engineer is expected to interact with customers, share knowledge, and mentor colleagues, playing a key role in bridging technical delivery with client needs.
- What opportunities for learning and growth are available for a Lead Test Engineer at Kainos?
- Kainos emphasizes continuous learning and development. You'll have opportunities to learn about new technologies and approaches, supported by talented colleagues, and through managing and developing your team.