Software Developer in Test (SDET)

Syms Strategic Group, LLC (SSG)•Annapolis, MD

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 W2 position requiring U.S. citizenship and the ability to obtain or possess a Public Trust (MBI). Applicants located in CA, CO, IL, MN, NJ, NY, OR, or WA will not be considered. The salary range is $85,389–$116,975. This is a software development and testing role, not an SQA tester position. The SDET will use strong programming skills to develop and execute test plans, cases, procedures, and scripts; verify that systems, products, and services meet organizational standards and end-user requirements; and help ensure software and IT systems operate correctly and are free from defects. The role includes both manual and automated testing, test-result analysis, issue resolution, metrics and reporting, and collaboration with technical and project stakeholders. The position also contributes to process improvements and, occasionally, other IT systems engineering activities such as requirements, design, installation, operation, sustainment, and support. The SDET independently develops approaches to complex technical problems, reviews completed work, contributes to programs and projects, and represents the organization in addressing difficult technical issues. A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field and 10 or more years of professional experience, including 10 or more years in software testing and quality assurance, are specified.

Requirements

Strong programming skills, commonly in C#, Java, or Python.
A 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, test scripts, and test 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.
Attention to detail and commitment to delivering high-quality work.
Ability to prioritize multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
Ability to understand business requirements and translate them into effective test scenarios.
Experience with test management tools.
Knowledge of DevOps practices and tools.
Strong understanding of risk-based testing, exploratory testing, and context-driven testing.
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.
U.S. citizenship is required.
Must possess or qualify for a Public Trust (MBI).

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 transactions 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 procedures to ensure information 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.
Conduct walkthroughs of 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, criteria, and an appropriate verification environment.
Document and communicate test results, support test-result analysis, and help resolve 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 reports.
Occasionally perform other IT systems engineering activities, including requirements, design, installation, operation, sustainment, and support.
Independently determine and develop approaches to technical solutions, review completed work for adequacy, and use sound judgment in selecting methods and techniques.
Contribute to programs and projects and represent the organization in resolving difficult technical issues.
Provide direction to employees according to established policies and management guidance, and measure whether objectives have been met.
Conduct test reviews and provide constructive feedback, and mentor and guide junior testers.