Senior Test Manager – Hands-On, Safety-Critical Systems

Mane Contract Services; Aberdeen City; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Mane Contract Services is seeking a dedicated test professional to own the test programme for complex safety-critical systems. You will write test plans and scripts and personally lead testing activities, remaining closely involved in technical work without building a wider team.

The role requires significant hands-on testing experience, strong traceability, and the ability to collaborate with engineers, suppliers and stakeholders throughout the system lifecycle.

Qualifications

• Experience managing tests for complex, safety-critical systems.
• Hands-on testing background with the ability to write test documentation and execute testing independently.
• Experience developing test strategies and managing testing through the full system lifecycle.
• Understanding of software lifecycles and established software engineering practices.
• Strong problem-solving and stakeholder management skills.
• HNC or higher qualification in engineering or equivalent with relevant experience.
• Defence or nuclear sector experience is preferred.
• Knowledge of radar data processing, flight data processing or voice communications would be advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver test strategies, plans, scripts and reports for complex, safety-critical systems.
• Take ownership of test activities throughout the system lifecycle, from requirements review through to verification, validation and acceptance.
• Ensure requirements are verifiable and supported by clear traceability and test evidence.
• Carry out system testing, investigate failures, diagnose issues and propose solutions.
• Define test environments, tools, entry and exit criteria, and acceptance requirements.
• Review supplier test documentation and assess the suitability of their test arrangements.
• Plan and estimate testing activities, monitor progress and manage priorities against project requirements.
• Work closely with engineering teams, suppliers and stakeholders to resolve issues and support system acceptance.
• Lead test reviews and identify improvements to testing processes and procedures.

Skills

Test management

Safety-critical testing

Hands-on testing

Requirements traceability

System lifecycle testing

Problem solving

Stakeholder management

Communication

Education

HNC or higher in Engineering

Job description

Mane Contract Services is seeking a dedicated test professional to own the test programme for complex safety-critical systems. You will write test plans and scripts and personally lead testing activities, remaining closely involved in technical work without building a wider team.

The role requires significant hands-on testing experience, strong traceability, and the ability to collaborate with engineers, suppliers and stakeholders throughout the system lifecycle.