Junior QA Test Engineer; Veterans Affairs

ThunderYard Solutions is a company that supports the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs by delivering high-quality software solutions. The Junior QA Tester role focuses on executing manual test cases and assisting with basic test automation to ensure application functionality across various systems.

Responsibilities:

• Review and gain detailed understanding of user stories and acceptance criteria
• Create and execute manual test cases based on user stories and acceptance criteria
• Perform functional, regression, and basic integration testing
• Validate application functionality across UI and API layers
• Document test results and report issues clearly
• Participate in sprint planning, backlog refinement, and test case reviews
• Assist in developing and maintaining automated test scripts
• Execute automated test suites and review results
• Support updates to existing automation frameworks
• Learn and contribute to CI/CD-integrated testing processes
• Perform basic API testing using tools such as Postman or Swagger
• Execute simple SQL queries to validate backend data
• Help verify data accuracy across integrated systems
• Identify, document, and track defects using JIRA or similar tools
• Provide clear reproduction steps and screenshots/logs
• Re-test fixes and confirm resolution
• Collaborate closely with developers, product owners, and other QA team members
• Participate in daily stand-ups, sprint reviews, and retrospectives
• Support User Acceptance Testing (UAT) and release validation activities by conducting live demos and testing with the customer
• Follow established QA standards and best practices
• Develop knowledge of testing methodologies and tools
• Seek mentorship and training opportunities to grow automation and technical skills
• Proactively raise quality concerns and suggest improvements

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent practical experience
• 0–2 years of experience in software testing, internships, or related technical roles
• Basic understanding of software testing concepts (manual and automated)
• Familiarity with Agile/Scrum/SAFe environments
• Exposure to API testing tools (Postman preferred)
• Basic knowledge of SQL and relational databases
• Experience using JIRA or similar defect tracking tools
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
• Effective written and verbal communication skills
• Must be able to work in Office products such as PowerPoint, Word, and Excel proficiently
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively
• Time management skills to meet deadlines and manage competing priorities
• Ability to obtain Public Trust / Background Investigation clearance
• U.S. citizenship
• Internship or academic project experience in QA or software development
• Exposure to automation tools such as Selenium
• Familiarity with Git or version control systems
• Interest in accessibility, performance, or security testing
• ISTQB Foundation Level (or willingness to pursue certification)