> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/325288-test-lead](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/325288-test-lead). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Test Lead - **Company:** Version 1 Solutions Limited - **Location:** Newcastle upon Tyne, UK (Remote available) - **Experience:** Expert - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Agile Methodology, Automation of Tests, Bug Tracking Systems, Software Bug Management, Databases, Data Integrity, Extract Transform Load (ETL), Data Mapping, DevOps, Open Source Technology, E2e Testing, Cadence Virtuoso, Selenium, Test Management, Strategies of Testing, Performance Testing, Cypress (Programming Language), Playwright - **Published:** June 3, 2026 - **Apply:** https://jobs.smartrecruiters.com/Version1/744000129676369-test-lead ## About the Role Proven experience in leading testing teams and strategic testing initiatives. - Strong hands-on experience with automation frameworks (e.g., Selenium, Playwright, Cypress) - Experience with Virtuoso for test automation or similar tool. - Deep understanding of CI/CD pipelines, test environment management. - Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to work independently and collaboratively. - Strong communication and leadership skills, with the ability to influence and mentor others. - Experience in Agile and DevOps environments. - AI tooling experience. - Expertise in database and ETL testing. - Familiarity with test management and defect tracking tools. - SC eligible preferred ## Description We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Automation and Performance Test Engineer to lead strategic testing initiatives across complex systems. This role demands a blend of technical expertise, leadership capability, and problem-solving acumen to drive quality across our engineering processes. You will be responsible for designing, building, and maintaining robust automation and performance testing frameworks using open-source tools, while also mentoring and guiding other engineers., Strategic Leadership: Plan and lead large-scale, complex testing activities, managing risks and identifying opportunities to improve quality and efficiency. - Technical Ownership: Build, maintain, and evolve automation frameworks using open-source technologies. - Process Improvement: Lead investigative work into existing processes to identify gaps and implement improvements. - Test Design & Execution: Design and execute a wide range of testing techniques including functional, performance, and automated testing. - Stakeholder Communication: Communicate test results and insights effectively to both technical and non-technical stakeholders. - Continuous Improvement: Review and enhance test environments and processes to support ongoing quality improvements and maintain high standards. - End-to-End testing specialising in validating data pipelines, source-to-target mapping, and data integrity testing. - Test Automation: Implement and maintain test automation using Virtuoso and other relevant tools. - Test Management: Oversee test planning, execution, and reporting aligned with the Test strategy. - Defect Management: Manage defect lifecycle and ensure timely resolution and reporting. - Database/ETL Testing: Perform thorough testing of database systems and ETL processes to ensure data accuracy and reliability. ## Related Videos - [Proactive monitoring and smoke testing in your production environment](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/139-proactive-monitoring-and-smoke-testing-in-your-production-environment) - [Testing .NET applications a Tool box for every developer](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/704-testing-net-applications-a-tool-box-for-every-developer) - [From DevOps to Scaled DevOps: How We’re Rebuilding Continuous Delivery as a Platform](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/100018-from-devops-to-scaled-devops-how-we-re-rebuilding-continuous-delivery-as-a-platform) - [Kubernetes and Microservices with Multi-Model Databases](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/382-kubernetes-and-microservices-with-multi-model-databases) - [How not to test ](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/175-how-not-to-test) - [Old tools, new tricks](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1916-old-tools-new-tricks) ## Related Articles - [The 8 Best Code Testing Tools](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/402-the-8-best-code-testing-tools) - [What is a Test Plan: Guide to Test Planning](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/191-what-is-a-test-plan-guide-to-test-planning) - [What’s the Difference between a Junior, Mid, and Senior Developer?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/238-what-s-the-difference-between-a-junior-mid-and-senior-developer) - [Integration And E2E Testing: Are They Complementary or Interchangeable?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/86-integration-and-e2e-testing-are-they-complementary-or-interchangeable) - [Fully Remote Software Engineer Jobs](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/447-fully-remote-software-engineer-jobs) - [How to create a test plan for software testing](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/56-how-to-create-a-test-plan-for-software-testing)