Non-Functional Test Lead in Manchester

Could you be the person who makes sure critical digital services perform at their best when it matters most? If you're passionate about quality, performance and security, this is an opportunity to shape how critical technology solutions are tested and delivered. As a Non-Functional Test Lead, you'll play a key role in ensuring AQA's digital services perform reliably, securely and effectively for colleagues, customers and learners across the UK.

Purpose of the Role

You'll lead the planning and delivery of non-functional testing across a range of technology projects, ensuring that performance, security and operational requirements are fully understood, tested and achieved. Working closely with project teams, stakeholders and delivery partners, you'll help deliver technology solutions that are robust, scalable and ready for live operation. Your expertise will help AQA maintain high-quality digital services that support our mission of enabling learners of all abilities to realise their potential.

In this role, you'll be responsible for:

• Leading the strategy, planning and delivery of performance, security and operational acceptance testing across multiple projects and programmes.
• Providing expert analysis and recommendations to identify risks, improve system performance and support successful project delivery.
• Collaborating with delivery teams, stakeholders and third-party suppliers to ensure non-functional requirements are clearly defined, tested and met.

You'll thrive in this role if you're a technically capable testing professional who enjoys solving complex challenges, influencing others and driving quality improvements.

Requirements:

• Proven experience delivering performance and non-functional testing on large-scale, complex technology projects.
• Strong knowledge of performance testing approaches, tools and techniques, including practical experience with tools such as JMeter.
• Experience working in Agile environments with a sound understanding of software development and testing lifecycles.
• Ability to analyse test results, identify root causes and communicate findings clearly to technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• A collaborative mindset with the ability to build relationships, support colleagues and influence successful delivery outcomes.

What's in It for You

• This is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact while continuing to develop your technical and leadership skills.
• Work on complex and varied technology projects that support education and assessment services across the UK.
• Develop your expertise within a supportive testing community, working alongside experienced Test Managers and technical specialists.
• Opportunity to influence testing standards, frameworks and best practice across the organisation.
• Flexible working arrangements that support a healthy work-life balance.
• Be part of an organisation with a strong purpose, inclusive culture and commitment to continuous improvement.

Diversity and Inclusion Statement

At AQA, we are committed to fostering a workplace that celebrates diversity and promotes equity and inclusion. We believe that a diverse team brings richer perspectives and drives better outcomes. Our ED&I strategy ensures that everyone-regardless of religion, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, age, disability, sexual orientation, or background-is valued, respected, and empowered to thrive. We actively promote inclusive language, avoid stereotypes, and strive for representation across all dimensions of diversity. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and lived experiences.

Application process

To apply, please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role by 23.59 on Sunday 2nd August. If shortlisted, you will be invited to complete an on demand video interview over the weekend of 8th August. Final stage interviews will take place in our Manchester office on the week of 17th August.