Technical Lead Test Automation (Senior SDET)
Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
Contract
1 day ago
Key skills
PythonJavaAIMLBDDAWSAzureAzure DevOpsApigeeGitHubAgileScrumLeadershipCommunicationPresentation Skills
About this role
Job Title: Technical Lead Test Automation (Senior SDET)
Duration: 12 Months (Potential Extension)
Location: Chicago, IL Hybrid (2 days/week onsite transitioning to full onsite)
Interview Process: 2 Rounds (Virtual + Mandatory Onsite)
Role Overview
We are seeking a Technical Lead Test Automation (Senior SDET) to drive automation strategy and execution across enterprise platforms. This is a hands-on leadership role requiring strong technical expertise in Java-based automation and API testing, along with the ability to guide teams and deliver high-quality solutions.
The role involves leading automation initiatives, enhancing frameworks, and collaborating across multiple teams in a fast-paced, Agile environment.
Key Responsibilities
Lead design, development, and enhancement of test automation frameworks.
Actively contribute to hands-on coding while leading the team.
Drive API automation testing efforts (primary focus).
Participate in Scrum ceremonies (stand-ups, sprint planning, retrospectives).
Define and execute test strategies and automation plans.
Review and approve code (GitHub PRs) to ensure quality standards.
Mentor team members and provide technical guidance.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams and stakeholders to deliver features.
Ensure integration and validation across enterprise and IoT-connected systems.
Technical Requirements (Must-Have) 10+ years of experience, with 5+ years in a technical leadership role. Strong proficiency in Java (mandatory). Extensive experience in API automation testing using:
o REST Assured
o Karate Framework (preferred) or similar tools
Experience with BDD frameworks:
o Cucumber
o Gherkin
Strong expertise in backend/API testing.
Preferred Skills
Experience with Python (scripting/automation).
Exposure to cloud platforms (AWS, Azure DevOps).
Familiarity with Apigee or API gateways.
Understanding of microservices architecture.
Experience with performance testing tools (e.g., JMeter) optional.
Exposure to AI/ML-related testing plus.
Testing Scope
API Testing: 70 80% (primary focus)
UI Testing: 20 30%
Platform & Architecture
APIs hosted on AWS and managed via Apigee.
Systems integrate enterprise applications and IoT platforms.
APIs act as a bridge between data platforms and UI applications.
Work Environment
Agile team with ~20+ members.
Fast-paced, high-impact engineering environment.
Requires continuous learning, adaptability, and strong ownership.
Soft Skills
Strong communication and presentation skills.
Ability to collaborate across distributed teams.
Proactive, adaptable, and solution-oriented mindset.
Strong leadership with hands-on involvement.