Sr. Quality Assurance Engineer (Automation)

Cogent People • Columbia, MD

2d • Hybrid

About The Position

Cogent People Inc. is seeking an SDET (Sr. QA Automation Tester) to support a large-scale IT application development program for a mission-critical data-centric project. As an SDET, you will serve as a hands-on technical expert, leveraging expertise in defining and executing a comprehensive testing suite for a large-scale enterprise system with a focus on coverage, regression testing, integration and performance testing.

Requirements

• BS in Information Technology, Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field.
• 7+ years of hands-on experience automating quality assurance on front-end and backend processes and systems, including functional and non-functional testing.
• 5+ years of experience in designing and developing automated test suites using Java, Cucumber, and Selenium.
• Experience with AWS.
• Experience with relational and non-relational databases (DynamoDB, SQL Server, Redshift).
• Familiarity with DevSecOps principles and CI/CD practices.
• Experience interpreting requirements and defining and executing comprehensive test suites for large-scale IT systems, including test scenarios, positive/negative test cases, and supporting test data.
• Experience with automating testing of HTTP APIs.
• Experience generating large data sets to support testing.
• Strong ability to learn new tools and technologies quickly.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills for working with cross-functional teams, including developers, project managers, and business analysts.
• High attention to detail with a focus on delivering quality and accuracy.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage time and prioritize tasks effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong problem-solving abilities with a proactive, solution-oriented approach.

Nice To Haves

• Experience working in a highly regulated environment (e.g., Federal Government contracts) is preferred.
• Experience leading QA automation effort is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute functional and non-functional test suites using automated tools and frameworks (Cucumber, Selenium) in Java.
• Analyze and understand system requirements and translate them into test scenarios and test cases.
• Define repeatable processes for creating and managing test data to support various test scenarios.
• Collaborate with developers and SDETs to improve automation coverage and integrate testing into CI/CD workflows.
• Serve as a technical point of contact for client interactions and cross-team coordination.
• Work with project managers, business analysts, and QA teams to ensure clear understanding of requirements and proper test coverage.
• Participate in SAFe Agile ceremonies, including sprint planning, reviews, and retrospectives.
• Contribute to strategic planning by identifying risks, recommending improvements, and supporting quality initiatives.

Benefits

• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance: Comprehensive coverage.
• 401(k) Plan: Matching contributions.
• Life Insurance & Disability Coverage: Company-paid life, short-term, and long-term disability insurance.
• Paid Time Off: 3 weeks of PTO annually, plus 10 holidays.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 1-10 employees