Lead Software Development Engineer

Cloud Software Group; Hartford; Remote; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading software company is seeking a highly experienced Lead Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) to join their team. This remote role involves designing and executing automated tests using Python and developing robust test strategies. The ideal candidate will have over 5 years of programming experience, strong communication skills, and familiarity with both Linux and Windows environments. This position offers flexibility in work location with a focus on quality and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of programming experience in object‑oriented Python.
• In‑depth knowledge of Linux and Windows operating systems.
• Expert understanding of functional, non‑functional, regression, and performance testing methodologies.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and maintain automated and manual test scripts using Python.
• Develop comprehensive test strategies, plans, and frameworks for XenServer.
• Collaborate with development teams to deliver bug fixes and new features.

Skills

Programming in Python

Automated testing

Linux knowledge

Windows knowledge

Communication skills

Networking protocols understanding

Test strategy planning

Education

Computer Science degree or equivalent

Tools

CI/CD tools (e.g., Jenkins)

Testing frameworks (e.g., Selenium, Cucumber)

Job description

Lead Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET)

We are seeking a highly experienced Lead Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) to join our XenServer (XS) System Quality team. This is a hands‑on technical leadership role where you will spend the majority of your time designing, coding, and executing automated tests using Python. You will work closely with quality managers, release teams, and developers to build and implement robust test strategies for XenServer. The role is fully remote for candidates within the UK with the option to work from our Cambridge office.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and maintain advanced automated and manual test scripts using Python.
• Develop comprehensive test strategies, plans, and frameworks for XenServer.
• Perform maintenance and functional enhancements of automated test assets.
• Conduct code reviews and ensure code quality within the team.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional development teams to deliver bug fixes and new features.
• Drive requirement analysis and ensure testability of requirements.
• Measure, monitor, and report on test progress, product quality, and test results.
• Analyze and triage test failures to identify root causes and work with development teams on resolutions.
• Identify and report critical defects, ensuring timely resolution.
• Drive standards and best practices in QA and testing and contribute to process improvements.
• Champion the adoption of new testing tools and technologies.

Qualifications

• Computer Science degree or equivalent relevant industry experience.
• 5+ years of programming experience in object‑oriented Python.
• In‑depth knowledge of Linux and Windows operating systems.
• Expert understanding of functional, non‑functional, regression, and performance testing methodologies.
• Solid understanding of networking protocols.
• Experience with enterprise‑class SAN/NAS storage solutions (e.g., iSCSI, NFS, FC).
• Proven ability to drive test strategy and planning.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills and the ability to engage with all levels of management.
• Quick learner, capable of working with unfamiliar technologies and programming languages.
• Passion for the subject matter and curiosity to explore new challenges.

Desirable Skills

• Experience with performance testing and benchmarking, including test design and analysis of performance data to identify bottlenecks and regressions.
• CI/CD and associated infrastructure/toolsets (Jenkins, virtual machines).
• Experience or desire to work with cloud technologies such as Microsoft Azure.
• Experience leading and managing test automation frameworks and continuous integration pipelines.
• Knowledge of API testing, Selenium, Cucumber, and other modern testing frameworks.
• Agile experience and familiarity with test frameworks like JUnit, TestNG.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Cloud Software Group is firmly committed to Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and to compliance with all federal, state, and local laws that prohibit employment discrimination. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, creed, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, gender expression, ethnicity, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, religion, genetic carrier status, disability, pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions (including lactation status), marital status, military service, protected veteran status, or any other protected classification.