At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead testing initiatives to ensure top-notch software quality and drive continuous improvement.
- Company: Join a leading defence technology firm committed to innovation and excellence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive team environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in defence tech while honing your automation testing skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in automation testing, especially in defence, with strong skills in Cucumber and Java.
- Other info: Opportunity to mentor junior engineers and work on large-scale projects.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 ÂŁ per year.
We are looking for a highly skilled Senior Test Quality Engineer to lead testing initiatives that ensure exceptional software quality. You will apply structured approaches, test practices, and technical solutions to deliver accelerated business outcomes through optimisation, automation, and analytics. Proficiency in Cucumber, Java, JIRA, and Confluence will be essential for designing and executing complex test scenarios. You will implement model-based test design, accelerate automation using the IGNITE platform, and leverage cognitive tools to transition from detection-based testing to prevention-based quality engineering. This role includes preparing detailed quality plans, guiding teams on quality standards, and driving continuous improvement throughout the project lifecycle. You will work closely with cross‑functional teams to ensure quality is embedded into every stage of delivery.
Responsibilities
- Lead the design and execution of automated and performance tests.
- Apply model‑based test design and prevention‑focused QA practices.
- Prepare and maintain project quality plans and strategies.
- Use analytics and metrics to drive test improvements.
- Mentor junior engineers in test practices and automation techniques.
Experience Requirements
- Proven track record in automation testing within the defence and public sector, with a strong understanding of the unique compliance, security, and regulatory frameworks in these environments.
- Experience working on complex, large‑scale projects involving multiple stakeholders.
Education Required: None Preferred: Bachelor’s Degree
Required Technical and Professional Expertise
- Strong expertise in Cucumber, Java, and performance testing tools.
- Experience with JIRA and Confluence for test management.
- Ability to implement automation frameworks using IGNITE.
- Understanding of cognitive tools for quality engineering transformation.
- Excellent communication and problem‑solving skills.
Preferred Technical and Professional Experience
- Proficiency with JMeter for advanced performance testing.
- Experience with AWS tooling and cloud‑based testing.
- Background in agile delivery models with integrated QA.
- Knowledge of advanced prevention‑based testing techniques.
Desirable Certifications
- ISTQB Advanced Test Automation Engineer
- Certified Selenium Professional
- Certified Agile Tester (CAT)
- Test Automation University Certificates
UK Work Eligibility
Applicants must have the valid right to work in the United Kingdom, be a resident in the UK, and have lived continuously in the UK for the last five years. A UK government security clearance is required. This role does not offer visa sponsorship.
Infrastructure & Technology Senior Automation Test Specialist - Defence Professional Cheltenham, GB employer: IBM
Contact Detail:
IBM Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Infrastructure & Technology Senior Automation Test Specialist - Defence Professional Cheltenham, GB
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the industry, especially those already working in defence or automation testing. LinkedIn is your best mate here – connect, engage, and don’t be shy to ask for insights or referrals.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your automation projects, especially if you’ve used Cucumber or Java. This gives potential employers a taste of what you can do and sets you apart from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of compliance and security frameworks in the defence sector. Be ready to discuss how you’ve applied model-based test design and prevention-focused QA practices in past roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’re always on the lookout for talented individuals like you. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves.
We think you need these skills to ace Infrastructure & Technology Senior Automation Test Specialist - Defence Professional Cheltenham, GB
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience with automation testing, especially in the defence sector. Use keywords from the job description like Cucumber, Java, and JIRA to catch our eye!
Showcase Your Skills: In your cover letter, don’t just list your skills—show us how you've applied them in real projects. We love seeing examples of how you’ve led testing initiatives or mentored junior engineers.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that make it easy for us to see your qualifications and fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands and shows us you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at IBM
✨Know Your Tools Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in Cucumber, Java, JIRA, and Confluence. Brush up on how these tools integrate into your testing processes, as you’ll likely be asked to demonstrate your proficiency during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Automation Skills
Prepare to discuss your experience with automation frameworks, especially using the IGNITE platform. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've implemented automation in past projects and the impact it had on quality outcomes.
✨Understand the Defence Sector
Familiarise yourself with the compliance, security, and regulatory frameworks relevant to the defence sector. This knowledge will not only impress your interviewers but also show that you understand the unique challenges of the role.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to tackle scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and approach to quality engineering. Think about past experiences where you’ve led testing initiatives or mentored junior engineers, and be ready to discuss them in detail.