> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/351386-software-test-engineer-test-lead](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/351386-software-test-engineer-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). --- # Software Test Engineer / Test Lead - **Company:** Polytec - **Location:** Royston, UK - **Experience:** Expert - **Salary:** £104,000.0 - **Contract:** Temporary contract - **Skills:** Testing (Software), Agile Methodology, Automation of Tests, Software Bug Management, Code Review, Ranorex, System Integration Testing, Strategies of Testing, Web Applications, Data Logging - **Published:** June 18, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.polytec.co.uk/vacancies/ref/36204/senior-software-test-engineer-test-lead.html ## About the Role * Proven experience as a Senior Software Test Engineer or Test Lead * Strong background in testing desktop and web-based applications * Experience with manual and automated testing frameworks (e.g. Ranorex) * Solid understanding of test strategy development, test design and execution * Experience with system integration testing, including hardware environments * Familiarity with Agile / SAFe methodologies * Ability to lead, mentor and support a small test team * Strong defect management and analytical skills * Comfortable working in a collaborative, cross-functional environment * Strong communication skills and ability to engage stakeholders ## Description Polytec are seeking an experienced Senior Software Test Engineer / Test Lead to support the delivery of multiple software releases across 2026-2027. This is a hands-on leadership role, combining test strategy ownership with day-to-day technical delivery in a collaborative Agile environment for our Royston based client. Responsibilities * Define and implement overall test strategy, coverage and approach * Analyse requirements and convert them into test cases and test plans * Lead system and integration testing, including hardware/software interactions * Design and execute manual and automated regression testing * Develop and maintain automated test scripts (Ranorex or similar) * Manage defect lifecycle: logging, tracking, triage and re-testing * Own and deliver test reporting, dashboards and final test summaries * Provide technical leadership and mentoring to junior test engineers * Support estimation activities and oversee team workload planning * Collaborate within a cross-functional Agile team, contributing to ceremonies and continuous improvement * Participate in peer reviews, code reviews (test automation) and team governance activities ## Related Videos - [Crypto-secure Data Management with In-Database Blockchain](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/632-crypto-secure-data-management-with-in-database-blockchain) - [Are Code Reviews Worth It? Insights from 16 Years of Review Data](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1135-are-code-reviews-worth-it-insights-from-16-years-of-review-data) - [Testing .NET applications a Tool box for every developer](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/704-testing-net-applications-a-tool-box-for-every-developer) - [Build Delightful Mobile Experiences with Kotlin, Realm, and Atlas Device Sync](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/694-build-delightful-mobile-experiences-with-kotlin-realm-and-atlas-device-sync) - [Build a CI/CD pipeline to automate code reviews and ensure code quality](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/349-build-a-ci-cd-pipeline-to-automate-code-reviews-and-ensure-code-quality) - [Excellent Software Testing](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/87-excellent-software-testing) ## Related Articles - [The 8 Best Code Testing Tools](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/402-the-8-best-code-testing-tools) - [Fully Remote Software Engineer Jobs](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/447-fully-remote-software-engineer-jobs) - [Where To Find Software Engineering Jobs](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/396-where-to-find-software-engineering-jobs) - [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) - [How to create a test plan for software testing](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/56-how-to-create-a-test-plan-for-software-testing) - [What is a Test Plan: Guide to Test Planning](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/191-what-is-a-test-plan-guide-to-test-planning)