Software Engineer in Test

Insight Global; City of Edinburgh; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading aerospace contractor in Edinburgh is seeking a SDET who will define technical work packages, guide developers, and lead test strategy creation. The role requires experience in software development within high-security environments and proficiency in Java, C++, and Python. The SDET will work onsite, focusing on the development of QKD software and ensuring compliance with ESA standards, making this a significant technical leadership position.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field is mandatory.
• Experience in aerospace or high-security environments.
• Ability to create test strategies and evaluate tools.

Responsibilities

• Lead development for QKD software.
• Break down tasks and delegate assignments to junior engineers.
• Implement and maintain Agile workflows and CI/CD pipelines.
• Conduct unit testing and automation.
• Align deliverables with ESA standards.

Skills

Java

C++

Python

Agile methodologies

Automated testing

DevOps practices

Problem-solving

Technical leadership

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field

Job description

Insight Global is actively hiring a SDET for a leading aerospace client in Edinburgh. They will be helping define technical work packages for junior developers, guide implementation approaches, and lead the creation of detailed test strategies. This is a technical leadership role, not a people‑management role.

The SDET will work closely with project engineers, coordinate with key programme stakeholders, report progress, and proactively remove roadblocks that could impact the mission timeline.

This role is a long term contract opportunity and is onsite 5x a week.

Key Responsibilities

Software Engineering

• Lead development efforts for QKD software in Java, C++, and Python (non‑embedded application software).
• Break down complex tasks into structured work packages and delegate assignments to junior engineers without managing their performance.
• Provide technical guidance and serve as a senior resource the junior team can look to for support.
• Implement and maintain Agile workflows and CI/CD pipelines.
• Conduct high-level unit testing, automation, and integration testing.
• Work with ESA and international partners to align deliverables to mission requirements.
• Develop, document, and own the test plan for ESA approval—including:
• Test tools and frameworks to be used
• When and how each test should be executed
• Detailed test procedures, acceptance criteria, and use cases
• Ensure that testing strategies, sequences, and methods meet ESA standards and mission requirements.
• Support SDET resources in building and refining automated test frameworks.
• Prepare all test‑related documentation well in advance of the 2026 execution phase.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field.
• Experience leading software development efforts in high‑security, aerospace, or government environments.
• Demonstrated ability to create detailed test strategies and evaluate appropriate tools, timing, and execution methods.
• Strong communication, problem‑solving, and technical leadership abilities.
• Comfort working with Agile, automated testing, and DevOps practices.