IT Software Engineer 5 – Technical Lead (Test Automation/ SDET)

Job Title: IT Software Engineer 5 – Technical Lead (Test Automation/ SDET)
Duration: 12 Months (Potential Extension)
Work Type: Hybrid (2 days/week onsite – transitioning to full onsite)
Location: Chicago, IL

Need to attain onsite interview 2 nd round at Chicago.

Note: Although this is an SDET leadership role, the position requires a candidate with strong hands-on Java coding skills and solid software development experience.

Need candidates who are strong in Java and APIs testing

Role Overview

We are seeking a Technical Lead – Test Automation (Senior SDET) to drive automation strategy and execution across enterprise platforms. This is a hands-on leadership role requiring strong technical expertise in Java-based automation and API testing, along with the ability to guide teams and deliver high-quality solutions.

The role involves leading automation initiatives, enhancing frameworks, and collaborating across multiple teams in a fast-paced, Agile environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, and enhancement of test automation frameworks.
• Actively contribute to hands-on coding while leading the team.
• Drive API automation testing efforts (primary focus).
• Participate in Scrum ceremonies (stand-ups, sprint planning, retrospectives).
• Define and execute test strategies and automation plans.
• Review and approve code (GitHub PRs) to ensure quality standards.
• Mentor team members and provide technical guidance.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and stakeholders to deliver features.
• Ensure integration and validation across enterprise and IoT-connected systems.

Technical Requirements (Must-Have)

• 10+ years of experience, with 5+ years in a technical leadership role.
• Strong proficiency in Java (mandatory).
• Extensive experience in API automation testing using:
• REST Assured
• Karate Framework (preferred) or similar tools
• Experience with BDD frameworks:
• Cucumber
• Gherkin
• Strong expertise in backend/API testing.

Preferred Skills

• Experience with Python (scripting/automation).
• Exposure to cloud platforms (AWS, Azure DevOps).
• Familiarity with Apigee or API gateways.
• Understanding of microservices architecture.
• Experience with performance testing tools (e.g., JMeter) – optional.
• Exposure to AI/ML-related testing – plus.

Testing Scope

• API Testing: 70–80% (primary focus)
• UI Testing: 20–30%

Platform & Architecture

• APIs hosted on AWS and managed via Apigee.
• Systems integrate enterprise applications and IoT platforms.
• APIs act as a bridge between data platforms and UI applications.

Work Environment

• Agile team with ~20+ members.
• Fast-paced, high-impact engineering environment.
• Requires continuous learning, adaptability, and strong ownership.

Soft Skills

• Strong communication and presentation skills.
• Ability to collaborate across distributed teams.
• Proactive, adaptable, and solution-oriented mindset.
• Strong leadership with hands-on involvement.

Work Model

• Hybrid: 2 days/week onsite (Monday & Wednesday mandatory).
• Will transition to full onsite in the future.
• Candidates must be willing to relocate and work onsite from Day 1 if not local.

Candidate Profile

• Strong hands-on automation engineer with leadership experience.
• Deep expertise in Java and API automation (not UI-only testers).
• Comfortable balancing technical execution and team leadership.
• Experience working in complex, integrated systems environments.

Disqualifiers

Candidates may be rejected if they lack:

• Strong Java coding skills.
• Solid API automation experience.
• Hands-on involvement in current/previous roles.
• Effective communication and collaboration skills.
• Willingness to work onsite as required.