Lead Software Developer in Test
Lead Software Developer in Test

Lead Software Developer in Test

Full-Time 36000 - 60000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
Ten10

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead the design and implementation of automation solutions while mentoring a team of SDETs.
  • Company: Join Ten10, a top UK consultancy in Quality Engineering and Software Testing.
  • Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, matched pension contributions, and flexible hybrid working.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on software quality and lead innovative projects with talented peers.
  • Qualifications: Proven leadership in QA/testing roles and expertise in test automation frameworks.
  • Other info: Great career progression opportunities and a culture that values continuous learning.

The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.

Join Ten10 as a Lead Software Developer in Test.

At Ten10, we’re transforming how businesses deliver high-quality software, and we’re looking for a Lead Software Developer in Test (Lead SDET) to play a pivotal role in that transformation. If you’re a seasoned technologist with a deep understanding of software testing and automation and the leadership skills to mentor teams and guide clients through complex challenges, this is your opportunity to lead from the front.

Important: All applicants must be eligible for SC clearance.

Why Ten10? We’re one of the UK’s leading independent consultancies in Quality Engineering, Software Testing, DevOps, and RPA trusted by major clients across finance, government, and enterprise. What sets us apart is our people, our passion for innovation, and our drive to deliver meaningful results.

Here’s why you’ll love being part of our team:

  • Strategic Impact: You’ll shape testing strategies and automation approaches across complex, high-profile client engagements.
  • Career Progression: Grow your leadership skills with tailored development opportunities and support for certifications.
  • Culture of Excellence: Work with talented peers who thrive on solving real-world problems with modern technologies.
  • Work-Life Balance: Enjoy hybrid working and a flexible approach that supports your lifestyle.

About the Role: This role is designed for individuals who want to own technical delivery, lead teams, and build lasting client relationships. As a Lead SDET, you will:

  • Lead the design and implementation of robust, scalable automation solutions across multiple projects and clients.
  • Mentor and coach a team of SDETs, fostering growth, upskilling, and driving best practices in testing and automation.
  • Own the QA strategy on projects, setting the vision for test architecture, tooling, quality metrics, and delivery excellence.
  • Engage directly with clients as a trusted advisor, understanding business needs and aligning our testing approach accordingly.
  • Contribute to pre-sales and project scoping, helping shape engagements from inception through delivery.

What We’re Looking For: We understand leadership takes many forms. If you’re driven to inspire others, lead innovation, and take ownership of delivery, we’d love to hear from you.

  • Eligibility for SC clearance.
  • Proven leadership in QA/testing roles, with experience guiding teams and managing delivery in Agile environments (SCRUM, Kanban).
  • Deep expertise in test automation frameworks such as Selenium, Playwright, Cypress, or RestAssured.
  • Experience with integration testing, test strategy, and test architecture at the project or program level.
  • Familiarity with performance testing tools such as JMeter, Gatling, K6, or Neoload.
  • Skilled in CI/CD pipeline integration (e.g., Jenkins, GitLab CI, Azure DevOps).
  • Excellent stakeholder communication and ability to navigate complex client landscapes.
  • Experience mentoring testers and fostering a culture of continuous learning and delivery excellence.

Bonus Points For:

  • Previous consultancy or professional services experience.
  • Hands‑on experience with additional programming languages like Python, Ruby, Scala, or PHP.
  • Exposure to cloud platforms and infrastructure‑as‑code within test environment.

What’s in It for You? We reward leadership and initiative with a package that reflects your impact:

  • 25 Days Annual Leave, increasing with tenure (+ buy/sell scheme).
  • Matched Pension Contributions up to 5%.
  • Subsidized Gym Memberships and Bike‑to‑Work Scheme.
  • Season Ticket Loans for easier commuting.
  • Flexible Hybrid Working arrangements.
  • Regular Social Events—from team socials to company‑wide celebrations.
  • Continuous Learning—including tailored training programs and full support for certifications.

Let’s Lead the Future Together. If you’re ready to step into a role where your voice is heard, your leadership is valued, and your expertise makes a difference, we want to hear from you. Apply today to become a Lead SDET at Ten10 and help shape the future of software quality engineering.

Lead Software Developer in Test employer: Ten10

At Ten10, we pride ourselves on being a leading independent consultancy in Quality Engineering and Software Testing, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and excellence. As a Lead Software Developer in Test, you'll enjoy a culture that prioritises career progression through tailored development opportunities, a flexible hybrid working model, and a supportive team that values your contributions. Join us to make a strategic impact while enjoying a healthy work-life balance and numerous employee benefits.
Ten10

Contact Detail:

Ten10 Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Lead Software Developer in Test

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend meetups, and engage with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. We can’t stress enough how personal connections can open doors to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.

✨Tip Number 2

Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and scenarios related to software testing and automation. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or using online resources to get comfortable discussing your experience and skills.

✨Tip Number 3

Showcase your expertise! Create a portfolio or GitHub repository with examples of your work in test automation frameworks. This gives potential employers a tangible look at what you can bring to the table, and we love seeing candidates who take initiative.

✨Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we’re always looking for passionate individuals who want to make an impact in the world of software quality engineering.

We think you need these skills to ace Lead Software Developer in Test

Leadership Skills
Software Testing
Test Automation
Agile Methodologies
Selenium
Playwright
Cypress
RestAssured
Integration Testing
Test Strategy
Test Architecture
Performance Testing Tools
CI/CD Pipeline Integration
Stakeholder Communication
Mentoring and Coaching

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Lead SDET role. Highlight your leadership in QA/testing roles and any relevant automation frameworks you've worked with.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Use your cover letter to tell us why you're passionate about software testing and how you can contribute to our team. Share specific examples of how you've led teams or improved testing processes in the past.

Showcase Your Technical Skills: Don’t forget to mention your expertise in test automation frameworks and CI/CD tools. We want to see how your technical background can help us deliver high-quality software solutions.

Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity!

How to prepare for a job interview at Ten10

✨Know Your Tech Inside Out

As a Lead Software Developer in Test, you need to showcase your deep understanding of test automation frameworks like Selenium or Cypress. Brush up on your technical skills and be ready to discuss how you've implemented these tools in past projects.

✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills

This role requires strong leadership abilities. Prepare examples of how you've mentored teams or led projects in Agile environments. Highlight your experience in guiding teams through complex challenges and fostering a culture of continuous learning.

✨Understand the Client's Needs

Engaging with clients is key for this position. Research Ten10’s major clients and their industries. Be prepared to discuss how you would align testing strategies with their business needs and contribute to pre-sales and project scoping.

✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills

Ten10 values innovation and excellence. Think of specific instances where you've solved real-world problems using modern technologies. Be ready to share these stories during your interview to demonstrate your strategic impact.

Lead Software Developer in Test
Ten10

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