REF061 - Lead Software Developer in Test - SDET

Ten10 Group; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading consultancy in software quality in London seeks a Lead Software Developer in Test. This role involves leading automation strategies, mentoring teams, and engaging directly with clients to deliver quality solutions. Ideal candidates should have proven leadership, strong programming skills in languages like Java and C#, and deep expertise in test automation frameworks. Join us in transforming software delivery and fostering a culture of excellence.

Benefits

25 Days Annual Leave

Matched Pension Contributions

Subsidised Gym Memberships

Flexible Hybrid Working

Continuous Learning support

Qualifications

• Eligibility for SC clearance required.
• Experience guiding teams and managing delivery in Agile environments.
• Deep expertise in test automation frameworks.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and implementation of scalable automation solutions.
• Mentor and coach a team of SDETs.
• Own the QA strategy on projects.

Skills

Leadership in QA/testing

Java

C#

JavaScript/TypeScript

Selenium

CI/CD pipeline integration

Stakeholder communication

Tools

Jenkins

Cypress

RestAssured

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 to own 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%.
• Subsidised 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.