REF061 - Lead Software Developer in Test - SDET

Ten10 Group; City Of London; Hybrid; GBP 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading software consultancy in London is seeking a Lead Software Developer in Test (Lead SDET) to drive software quality engineering. In this hybrid role, you will lead automation strategies and mentor teams, ensuring exceptional delivery and collaboration with clients. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in QA/testing, programming skills, and experience with automation frameworks. Join us to shape the future of software quality.

Benefits

25 Days Annual Leave

Matched Pension Contributions

Subsidized Gym Memberships

Flexible Hybrid Working

Qualifications

• Eligibility for SC clearance.
• Experience in Agile environments (SCRUM, Kanban).
• Deep expertise in test automation frameworks.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and implementation of automation solutions.
• Mentor and coach SDET teams, fostering growth.
• Engage with clients as a trusted advisor.

Skills

Leadership in QA/testing

Programming in Java

Test automation frameworks (Selenium, Playwright)

Integration testing

Stakeholder communication

Tools

Jenkins

Azure DevOps

JMeter

Job description

Join Ten10 as a Lead Software Developer in Test
Job Type: Permanent
Location: London (Hybrid working with occasional client travel)

At Ten10, we're transforming how businesses deliver high-quality software, and we’re looking for a Lead Software Developer in Test (Lead SDET) to play a pivotal role in that transformation. If you're a seasoned technologist with a deep understanding of software testing and automation—and the leadership skills to mentor teams and guide clients through complex challenges—this is your opportunity to lead from the front.

️ Important: All applicants must be eligible for SC clearance. Not sure if you qualify? Check here:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/united-kingdom-security-vetting-clearance-levels/national-security-vetting-clearance-levels#security-check-sc

Why Ten10?

We’re one of the UK’s leading independent consultancies in Quality Engineering, Software Testing, DevOps, and RPA—trusted by major clients across finance, government, and enterprise. What sets us apart is our people, our passion for innovation, and our drive to deliver meaningful results.

Here’s why you’ll love being part of our team:

• Strategic Impact: You’ll shape testing strategies and automation approaches across complex, high-profile client engagements.
• Career Progression: Grow your leadership skills with tailored development opportunities and support for certifications.
• Culture of Excellence: Work with talented peers who thrive on solving real-world problems with modern technologies.
• Work-Life Balance: Enjoy hybrid working and a flexible approach that supports your lifestyle.

About the Role

This role designed is for individuals who want toown technical delivery, lead teams, and build lasting client relationships. As a Lead SDET, you will:

• Lead the design and implementation of robust, scalable automation solutions across multiple projects and clients.
• Mentor and coach a team of SDETs, fostering growth, upskilling, and driving best practices in testing and automation.
• Own the QA strategy on projects—setting the vision for test architecture, tooling, quality metrics, and delivery excellence.
• Engage directly with clients as a trusted advisor—understanding business needs and aligning our testing approach accordingly.
• Contribute to pre-sales and project scoping, helping shape engagements from inception through delivery.

What We’re Looking For

We understand leadership takes many forms. If you're driven to inspire others, lead innovation, and take ownership of delivery, we'd love to hear from you.

Essential Skills & Experience:

• Eligibility for SC clearance.
• Proven leadership in QA/testing roles, with experience guiding teams and managing delivery in Agile environments (SCRUM, Kanban).
• Strong programming skills in Java, C#, JavaScript/TypeScript, or similar.
• Deep expertise in test automation frameworks such as Selenium, Playwright, Cypress, or RestAssured.
• Experience with integration testing, test strategy, and test architecture at the project or program level.
• Familiarity with performance testing tools such as JMeter, Gatling, K6, or Neoload.
• Skilled in CI/CD pipeline integration (e.g., Jenkins, GitLab CI, Azure DevOps).
• Excellent stakeholder communication and ability to navigate complex client landscapes.
• Experience mentoring testers and fostering a culture of continuous learning and delivery excellence.

Bonus Points For:

• Previous consultancy or professional services experience.
• Hands-on experience with additional programming languages like Python, Ruby, Scala, or PHP.
• Exposure to cloud platforms and infrastructure-as-code within test environment

What’s in It for You?

We reward leadership and initiative with a package that reflects your impact:

• 25 Days Annual Leave, increasing with tenure (+ buy/sell scheme).
• Matched Pension Contributions up to 5%.
• Subsidized Gym Memberships and Bike-to-Work Scheme.
• Season Ticket Loans for easier commuting.
• Flexible Hybrid Working arrangements.
• Regular Social Events—from team socials to company-wide celebrations.
• Continuous Learning—including tailored training programs and full support for certifications.

Let’s Lead the Future Together

If you're ready to step into a role where your voice is heard, your leadership is valued, and your expertise makes a difference, we want to hear from you.

Apply today to become a Lead SDET at Ten10 and help shape the future of software quality engineering.