IT Software Engineer

*Design, develop, and maintain automated test frameworks and scripts *Extend and enhance existing automation frameworks using Java/JavaScript *Develop automation solutions supporting CI/CD pipelines *Plan and execute test strategies based on business requirements and acceptance criteria *Build and maintain API automation frameworks and test suites *Develop automated functional and performance test scripts (Java, Karate, JMeter) *Perform exploratory and manual testing as needed *Lead and mentor QA engineers across onshore and offshore teams *Collaborate with Product Owners to resolve issues and clarify requirements *Ensure adherence to QA best practices, standards, and methodologies

Team & Work Environment *Work within a 20+ member cross-functional team *Collaborative, fast-paced enterprise environment *Hybrid work model - onsite presence required from Day 1

The ideal candidate will have strong expertise in Java-based automation frameworks, API testing, and CI/CD environments, along with the ability to lead testing efforts and mentor team members., *Bachelor's degree with 8-10 years of experience in QA/SDET roles *Minimum 8 years of experience in test automation framework design

Required Technical Skills *Strong programming experience in Java (3-5 years) *Experience with BDD frameworks (Cucumber, JBehave, or similar) *Extensive experience in API/Web Services testing (REST) *Proven ability to create test scripts, test cases, and test data *Strong SQL/querying skills for relational databases *3+ years of performance testing experience using JMeter *Experience with end-to-end system integration testing *Hands-on experience with full-stack and third-party integration testing

Preferred Skills *Experience with Python *Exposure to AWS Cloud technologies *Familiarity with CI/CD tools (Jenkins, Git) and DevOps practices *Experience with API gateways (e.g., Apigee) *Knowledge of TDD, code reviews, and Agile/Lean methodologies *Understanding of microservices architecture *Experience in load and performance testing *Strong documentation skills

Soft Skills *Strong communication and collaboration skills *Ability to work in complex, fast-paced environments *Proactive, adaptable, and solution-oriented mindset *Ability to work closely with developers and business stakeholders

Additional Notes / Disqualifiers *No remote option - onsite presence required (3 days/week) *Candidates must be local to Chicago or clearly indicate willingness to relocate at their own expense *Job hopping or inconsistent tenure will be disqualified