Lead QA Automation Engineer

Title: Lead QA Automation Engineer

Location: Ashburn, VA (5 days onsite)
Employment Type: Full-Time / Contract to hire
 

Work Authorization:

Must be a [U.S. Citizen/Authorized to work in the U.S./ Candidates need to clear security clearance.

Position Overview:

We are seeking a highly skilled Lead QA Automation Engineer who will design, implement, and manage automated testing frameworks and strategies to ensure application quality and performance.

The ideal candidate will have strong technical expertise in test automation, deep understanding of Agile methodology, and proven leadership experience.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the design, development, implementation, and maintenance of automated test scripts and architectures for application products.
• Conduct system-level test and evaluation procedures to validate that requirements are met.
• Analyze test cases, execute grey box testing, and provide detailed progress and defect reports.
• Collaborate closely with development teams to identify, isolate, and resolve software defects.
• Provide deep testing know-how to support complex software/hardware user requirements.
• Participate in all phases of software/hardware development and risk management assessments with focus on user requirements.
• Promote and implement Test Driven Development (TDD) practices.
• Drive automation strategies using tools such as UFT (Unified Functional Testing) and UiPath, with the ability to adapt to emerging automation frameworks.
• Work independently and lead efforts across multiple projects, ensuring delivery of high-quality software solutions in an efficient manner.
• Ensure effective integration of automated tests into CI/CD pipelines.
• Provide guidance and mentorship to junior automation engineers on best practices, test planning, and execution.
• Demonstrate expertise in testing across Windows, Mac OS, and Microsoft 365 environments.

Key Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field.
• 8+ years of experience in QA Automation Engineering, with at least 1-2 years in a lead or senior role.
• Strong experience in test automation using UFT and UiPath.
• In-depth knowledge of Agile methodologies and QA processes.
• Experience in Test Driven Development (TDD) and grey box testing techniques.
• Solid understanding of both Windows and Mac operating systems and Microsoft 365 environments.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple complex projects.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Strong commitment to delivering high-quality software quickly and efficiently.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with modern automation tools and frameworks beyond UFT/UiPath.
• Knowledge of CI/CD pipeline integration (e.g., Jenkins, Azure DevOps).
• Strong leadership and mentoring capabilities.