Automation Test Engineer

Tec Partners; Manchester; Hybrid; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading technology company is seeking a Senior Automation Test Engineer based in the UK to join their mission-driven team in delivering advanced solutions in the defence sector. The successful candidate will be pivotal in enhancing software quality through automation and collaborative practices within Agile teams, all while benefiting from a flexible and inclusive working environment.

Benefits

Flexible and hybrid working arrangements

Optional compressed working pattern

Private healthcare and pension scheme

Access to professional development

Qualifications

• Strong background in software testing and automation in Agile environments.
• Must hold the highest level of UK Government security clearance.
• UK citizenship is required.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement automated test solutions across multiple layers.
• Work within Agile teams to execute test strategies.
• Champion test best practices and mentor colleagues.

Skills

Automation Testing

Agile Practices

Problem Solving

Analytical Skills

Communication

Education

Degree-level qualification

ISTQB certification

Tools

Test Automation Frameworks

CI/CD Tools

Job description

Senior Automation Test Engineer - UK Highest Government Clearance Required
Location: Manchester/Cheltenham (Hybrid)
Salary: Competitive/Flexible + Benefits
Relocation Assistance: May be available
UK Citizenship Required
Security Clearance: Must currently hold the highest level of UK Government clearance

Opportunity Overview

We are seeking a Senior Automation Test Engineer to join a high-performing team delivering advanced technology solutions within the defence and national security sectors.

In this role, you will be responsible for designing, implementing and maintaining effective automated testing capabilities that support the delivery of high-quality, mission-critical software. Working within highly Agile, multi-disciplinary teams, you will apply modern testing practices across complex programmes, ensuring the software is robust, secure, and fit for purpose.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement automated test solutions across multiple layers of application architecture
• Work collaboratively within Agile delivery teams to define and execute test strategies
• Identify opportunities to improve software delivery through automation, CI/CD and quality engineering practices
• Support the full software development lifecycle by translating business and technical requirements into test scenarios
• Champion test best practice and mentor colleagues in the adoption of modern testing principles

Essential Skills and Experience

• Strong background in software testing within Agile environments, with a focus on automation
• Practical experience with test automation frameworks and tools, supporting TDD/BDD and CI/CD workflows
• Solid understanding of the software delivery lifecycle and DevOps tooling and techniques
• Confident communicator with excellent problem-solving and analytical skills
• Able to influence and inspire quality-first approaches across teams
• Degree-level qualification or equivalent industry experience
• ISTQB certification or similar is desirable
• Must currently hold the highest level of UK Government security clearance
• UK citizenship is required due to clearance eligibility

What's on Offer

• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements to suit your lifestyle
• Optional compressed working pattern (e.g. every other Friday off)
• Competitive salary and performance-related bonuses
• Private healthcare and pension scheme
• Access to continuous professional development, mentorship, and internal mobility
• Supportive and inclusive working environment

Application Process

If you're ready to apply your expertise to meaningful, mission-focused projects, please contact Christian at TEC Partners.

If this opportunity isn't the right fit, we are supporting a range of roles across the UK's defence, cyber and intelligence sectors-get in touch to discuss your goals and preferences.