Software Test Engineer

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

3d•$85,389 - $116,975•Remote

About The Position

Syms Strategic Group (SSG) is seeking an experienced Software Test Engineer to support the Department of Veterans Affairs. This is a full-time, 100% U.S.-based remote W2 position with a salary range of $85,389–$116,975. The role is explicitly not an SQA tester position and requires strong programming skills, commonly in languages such as C#, .NET, Java, or Python. The position requires U.S. citizenship and the ability to possess or qualify for a Public Trust (MBI). Candidates residing in California, Colorado, Illinois, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, or Washington will not be considered. The Software Test Engineer develops and executes test plans, cases, and procedures; writes test scripts and identifies test data; leads testing and verification activities; documents results; and supports analysis and resolution of issues. The role also creates daily test metrics, improves procedures, contributes to projects, and may occasionally perform other IT systems engineering activities. It involves technical problem-solving, independent development of solutions, review of completed work, and frequent contact with internal organizations and external customers.

Requirements

Strong programming skills, commonly in languages such as C#, Java, or Python; the posting also identifies .NET among common languages.
A proven track record working on complex software projects and ensuring high-quality deliverables.
At least 10 years of total professional work experience and at least 10 years of experience in software testing and quality assurance.
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 high-quality work.
Ability to prioritize multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
Ability to mentor and guide junior testers.
Ability to understand business requirements and translate them into effective test scenarios.
Experience with test management tools.
Knowledge of DevOps practices and tools.
Ability to conduct test reviews and provide constructive feedback.
Strong understanding of risk-based testing, exploratory testing, and context-driven testing.
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 certification, 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 test procedures to verify that 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 tests of software and IT systems to verify 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 and support analysis of results and resolution of open issues.
Document complex problems, work to resolve them, and report resolution progress 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 to solve difficult technical problems.
Establish goals to meet assigned objectives, measure whether objectives have been met, and review completed work for adequacy.
Independently determine and develop approaches to solutions, using sound judgment in selecting methods and techniques.
Contribute to completion of specific programs and projects.
Provide direction to employees according to established policies and management guidance.
Conduct frequent inter-organizational and external customer contacts and represent the organization in resolving difficult technical issues associated with projects.
Mentor and guide junior testers, conduct test reviews, and provide constructive feedback.