Software Developer in Test (SDET)

Syms Strategic Group, LLC (SSG)•Ashburn, VA

2d•$85,389 - $116,975•Remote

About The Position

Syms Strategic Group (SSG) is seeking an experienced Software Developer in Test to support the Department of Veterans Affairs. This is a full-time, 100% U.S.-based remote W-2 position requiring U.S. citizenship and the ability to obtain or qualify for a Public Trust (MBI). Candidates from California, Colorado, Illinois, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, and Washington will not be considered. The salary range is $85,389–$116,975. This is a software development and test role, not an SQA tester position. The SDET will use strong programming skills to develop and execute test plans, cases, procedures, and scripts; verify software and IT systems against organizational standards and end-user requirements; document and analyze results; and help resolve defects and other complex problems. The role also involves test metrics and reporting, process improvement, occasional systems engineering activities, and technical collaboration with internal teams and external customers. A bachelor's degree in a relevant field and at least 10 years of professional experience, including at least 10 years in software testing and quality assurance, are specified. Advanced testing or quality-assurance certifications are noted, and experience with EDI medical claims and cloud-based testing platforms is desired.

Requirements

Strong programming skills, such as C#, Java, or Python; the posting also references .NET among common programming languages.
At least 10 years of total professional work experience and at least 10 years of software testing and quality-assurance experience.
Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, or a related field.
Proven track record working on complex software projects and ensuring high-quality deliverables.
Experience with both manual and automated testing.
Experience with Agile/Scrum methodologies and understanding of the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC).
Proficiency in writing and executing test cases, scripts, and plans.
Strong knowledge of test automation frameworks and tools, such as Selenium, TestNG, JUnit, QTP, or LoadRunner.
Experience with CI/CD tools, such as GitHub Actions.
Familiarity with version control systems such as Git and Subversion.
Understanding of performance testing and tools such as JMeter and Gatling.
Experience with defect-tracking and management tools such as JIRA and Bugzilla.
Knowledge of databases and SQL for validating stored data.
Experience testing web applications, APIs, and services.
Understanding of security-testing practices and tools.
Experience with functional, regression, integration, system, usability, and User Acceptance Testing (UAT).
Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills; strong communication and collaboration abilities.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team, prioritize multiple tasks, meet deadlines, and maintain attention to detail and high-quality work.
Ability to understand business requirements and translate them into effective test scenarios.
Experience with test-management tools and knowledge of DevOps practices and tools.
Strong understanding of risk-based testing, exploratory testing, and context-driven testing.
U.S. citizenship is required for this opportunity.
Must possess or qualify for a Public Trust (MBI) and meet government investigation and eligibility requirements.

Nice To Haves

Advanced testing or quality-assurance certifications, such as ISTQB, CSTE, or CSQA.
Experience with Electronic Data Interchange X.12 medical claims, including claim formats such as 837, 834, and 277.
Familiarity with cloud-based testing platforms such as AWS and Azure.

Responsibilities

Develop and execute test plans, test cases, and test procedures to ensure systems, products, and services meet organizational standards and end-user requirements.
Develop test plans, schedules, and testing approaches.
Write test cases and scripts and identify data for test scenarios.
Walk through test cases and scripts with Test Managers, Requirement Leads, Project Managers, and Development Leads.
Perform and lead testing of software and IT systems to ensure proper operation and freedom from defects.
Perform verification activities on work products using defined methods, procedures, and criteria in an appropriate verification environment.
Document and communicate test results; support analysis of results and resolution of open issues.
Document and work to resolve complex problems, and report progress on their resolution to management.
Devise improvements to current procedures and develop models of possible future configurations.
Create daily test metrics and reporting.
Occasionally perform other IT systems engineering activities, such as requirements, design, installation, operation, sustainment, and support.
Apply technical principles, theories, and concepts; establish goals to meet assigned objectives and measure whether objectives have been met.
Develop imaginative, thorough, practicable technical solutions to difficult problems, independently determining an approach and reviewing completed work for adequacy.
Contribute to specific programs and projects and conduct frequent inter-organizational and outside-customer contacts.
Represent the organization in providing solutions to difficult technical issues associated with projects.
Provide direction to employees according to established policies and management guidance.
Mentor and guide junior testers, conduct test reviews, and provide constructive feedback.