At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design and execution of test strategies for integrated hardware and software systems.
- Company: Join a UK-based tech company innovating complex real-world systems.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonus, hybrid work model, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Ideal for those with a background in robotics, IoT, or similar fields.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by leading testing in hands-on environments with cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in building test strategies and hands-on automation skills required.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 75000 £ per year.
Location: Reading - Hybrid (occasional days on site)
£75,000 + Bonus
⚠️ Please note: this role requires experience testing physical systems (e.g. hardware, sensors, electronics). Candidates with purely software/web testing backgrounds will not be a fit.
This is a true lead-level role: you'll be building the test strategy and test plan from scratch, not inheriting or following an existing one. We need someone who has demonstrably done this before, not someone stepping up into it for the first time.
We're supporting a UK-based technology business developing complex, real-world systems that combine software with physical devices. This is a hands-on role leading testing across integrated hardware and software in lab and live environments, not a purely desk-based position, but it is also not an entry point into test leadership. You'll be the senior authority on test approach from day one.
The Role
You'll take full ownership of system-level validation from the ground up, defining the test strategy, building the test plan, and establishing how testing is run, while also working directly with both software and physical components to ensure the product performs reliably in real-world conditions. Expect a genuine mix of strategic leadership and hands-on work, including system setup, configuration, and field-based testing.
Key Responsibilities
- Design and build the system test strategy and test plan from scratch. This is a core, non-negotiable part of the role
- Lead end-to-end testing of integrated hardware + software systems
- Plan and execute field and lab-based test activities
- Work hands-on with system setup, configuration, and troubleshooting
- Analyse system behaviour under real-world conditions
- Own and drive test automation, defining approach, tooling, and coverage, not just contributing to an existing framework
- Collaborate closely with engineering teams to resolve complex issues
Requirements
- Proven experience independently building a test strategy and test plan from scratch, ideally for integrated hardware/software systems
- Strong, hands-on automation experience, able to design and implement automation frameworks, not just run existing scripts
- Experience testing integrated systems involving both software and physical components
- Background working with hardware, sensors, electronics, or similar technologies
- Comfortable working in hands-on, real-world test environments (not just test management)
- Strong problem-solving skills across system-level issues
- Demonstrable experience leading testing activities at a senior/lead level, including ownership of approach and direction, not just coordinating day-to-day execution
Desirable
- Experience in robotics, medical devices, IoT or similar industries
- Exposure to field trials, live environments, or operational systems
- Experience mentoring or setting direction for a wider test team
🚫 This role is NOT a fit if you:
- Have only worked in web, app, or API testing environments
- Focus primarily on manual/functional software testing
- Prefer fully remote or non-hands-on roles
- Have not personally built a test strategy or automation framework from the ground up
- Are looking for your first step into a lead-level position
If this role aligns with your experience and you're interested in learning more, please apply directly or reach out for a confidential chat.
System Test Lead in Slough employer: Technify Talent
At Technify Talent, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer by fostering a collaborative and innovative work culture in the vibrant city of Cambridge. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through continuous learning opportunities and hands-on experience with cutting-edge technology, making this role not just a job, but a pathway to a rewarding career in the tech industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land System Test Lead in Slough
✨Join Local Tech Meetups
Get out there and mingle with fellow developers by joining local tech meetups. It’s a fantastic way to meet people who might be working at Technify Talent or know someone who does. Plus, you can pick up some trendy tech skills and trends while you're at it!
✨Contribute to Open Source Projects
Show off your coding chops by jumping into open-source projects. Not only does this give you practical experience, but it also gets you noticed in the dev community. You'll create a killer portfolio that speaks volumes about your skills to Technify Talent.
✨Tap into Online Developer Communities
Don’t underestimate the power of online developer communities like GitHub, Stack Overflow, and even Reddit. Participate in discussions, share your projects, and build your visibility. We can often find opportunities through these channels that can lead to a full-time gig at companies like Technify Talent.
✨Explore Job Boards Specifically for Tech Roles
Keep your eyes peeled on job boards that focus on tech roles. Sites like TechCareers or Stack Overflow Jobs can often have listings for companies like Technify Talent that might not show up on broader job sites. Make it a habit to check these regularly, and don’t hesitate to apply directly through our website!
We think you need these skills to ace System Test Lead in Slough
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show off your coding skills:When applying for a software engineering role, it's super important to showcase your coding skills. Make sure your CV includes your tech stack, any relevant programming languages you’re comfortable with, and examples of projects you've worked on. If you have a GitHub profile, link it up! We love to see code in action.
Tailor your portfolio:For a full-time role, we’d expect to see some solid examples of your work in your portfolio. Make sure to include at least two or three projects that highlight your problem-solving skills and your ability to work with different technologies. Focus on the projects that are most relevant to the position at Technify Talent.
Craft a killer cover letter:Your cover letter is your chance to stand out—make it personal! Explain why you want to work at Technify Talent and how your skills align with the role. Show us your passion for software development. We dig enthusiastic candidates who understand the value of collaboration and continuous learning!
Be clear and concise:When it comes to writing your CV and cover letter, clarity is key. Avoid jargon that could confuse us and stick to simple, direct language. Highlight your achievements with quantifiable results where possible, and keep everything easy to read. A well-organised application goes a long way!
How to prepare for a job interview at Technify Talent
✨Brush Up on Your Coding Skills
For a full-time software engineering role, it's crucial that we stay sharp with our coding abilities. Expect technical questions that might involve solving problems on the spot or discussing algorithms. Practise on platforms like LeetCode or HackerRank to get comfortable with the types of questions that often come up.
✨Know Your Tools and Frameworks
Make sure we’re well-acquainted with the tools and technologies listed in the job description. Familiarise ourselves with any specific frameworks or programming languages mentioned. If Technify Talent uses React or Node.js, for instance, be ready to discuss how we’ve used them in previous projects or coursework.
✨Showcase Your Projects
Bring along a portfolio that highlights our best work. This could be code samples, GitHub repositories, or any side projects we’ve built. Make sure we can talk through our thought process for each project, especially the challenges we faced and how we solved them—this shows our problem-solving skills in action.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
While technical skills are key, full-time positions also require cultural fit. Be ready to discuss our previous experiences and how we handle teamwork, conflict, and deadlines. Brush up on the STAR method—Situation, Task, Action, Result—to clearly articulate our past experiences when discussing how we've contributed to a team.
