Software Development Engineer In Test (SDET)

The Automation QA Engineer will take on a key role in ensuring the quality of the Bede platform. The role will be involved in testing new features using the latest automation tools and maintaining our existing test suites to uphold our high standards. This is a hybrid role that requires you to be in our Newcastle-upon-Tyne office two days a week. Please apply only if you’re comfortable with this arrangement.

What you’ll be doing:

• Design, develop, and maintain automated test scripts using industry standard tools and frameworks.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to understand project requirements and apply appropriate testing methodologies, ensuring alignment with Bede's development processes.
• Identify areas of automation opportunity within the testing process and implement automation frameworks, tools, and strategies to increase test efficiency and coverage.
• Conduct thorough regression testing to validate software stability and ensure existing functionalities remain unaffected by new feature implementations.
• Perform root cause analysis for test failures and work closely with the development team to resolve issues promptly.
• Create and maintain test data, test environments, and test harnesses required for automated testing.
• Monitor and analyse test results, track key testing metrics, and provide regular reports on the quality of software releases to stakeholders.
• Proactively identify areas for process improvement within the testing methodologies and participate in discussions to enhance testing practices.
• Stay updated with the latest trends and best practices in software testing and share knowledge with the team to foster continuous learning and improvement.

What we are looking for:

• Proficient in the C# programming language.
• Expertise in software testing, including data and functionality validation.
• Skilled in translating business requirements into comprehensive test cases.
• Familiarity with Git or other version control systems.
• Proficient in working with APIs and databases.
• Proven ability to drive process improvements.
• Exceptional analytical skills and meticulous attention to detail.
• Strong problem‑solving skills and the ability to troubleshoot complex issues.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, to effectively collaborate with cross‑functional teams.
• Ability to adapt to evolving technologies and stay updated with industry trends in software testing and quality assurance.
• Work well individually or as part of a team.
• Self‑starter willing and able to take ownership and assume responsibility.
• Ability to manage own time and prioritise effectively.

What we can offer you:

• A friendly, flexible and trust‑based approach to working.
• 25 days annual leave, plus 8 bank holidays and usually a generous Christmas break.
• Fully matched private pension scheme (up to 8%).
• Bupa private healthcare from day one, including cash plan benefits, dental and optical cover (covers all pre‑existing conditions).
• Life assurance cover of 4x your annual salary.
• Employee Assistance Programme (via Bupa), providing confidential support and practical advice whenever you might need it.
• Access to Calm – the #1 app for meditation and sleep.
• Innovation and learning – space to develop skills, try new ideas and experiment, with an annual hackathon where some ideas make it into real work.
• A work‑owned mobile phone or tablet of your choice, with the monthly contract covered by us.
• A great office setup – free snacks and drinks every day, plus regular food vans from some of the best places in Newcastle.
• Bede Bucks – exclusive colleague discounts and access to a wellbeing platform.
• Lots of social events – both in and outside of working hours.
• Referral programme – help us grow the team and receive a referral bonus of up to £3,000 (pre‑tax, subject to scheme terms).
• Bede swag – including hoodies, t-shirts and our much‑loved Bede socks.
• Bede Holidays – extra discretionary days off through the year as a thank‑you for the great work our teams do.