Test Automation Engineer

Protec Fire and Security Group; Nelson; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Protec Fire and Security Group is seeking a Test Automation Engineer to design, develop, and maintain automated test solutions spanning embedded firmware, software, and cloud interfaces.

You will build test frameworks, implement CI/CD tests in Azure DevOps, and collaborate with firmware, hardware, and QA teams to ensure robust validation across all system layers, from embedded firmware to user interfaces and APIs.

Qualifications

• Degree level or equivalent in electronics, software or related engineering field.
• Hands-on experience building automated test scripts and frameworks.
• Experience with hardware test integration and serial protocols is desirable.
• Familiarity with CI/CD and version control practices.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and maintain automated test frameworks and scripts.
• Develop and execute functional, regression, and system tests.
• Integrate automated tests into CI/CD pipelines (Azure DevOps).
• Analyse test results and support root‑cause investigations.
• Collaborate with R&D to improve test coverage and quality.
• Contribute to test strategy and documentation.
• Maintain test environments, simulators, and virtual devices.

Skills

Test automation

Communication

Documentation

Team collaboration

Problem solving

CI/CD

Docker

Education

Engineering degree or equivalent

Tools

Python

C#

JavaScript

Git

Azure DevOps

GitHub Actions

Jenkins

LabVIEW

TestStand

Docker

Job description

As a Test Automation Engineer, you’ll play a key role in designing, developing, and maintaining automated test solutions that help us efficiently deliver high-quality, safety-critical products. You’ll work closely with firmware, software, and cloud developers to ensure our systems are thoroughly validated across all layers — from embedded firmware to user interfaces and APIs.

Typical Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and maintain automated test frameworks and scripts.
• Develop and execute test cases covering functional, regression, and system-level testing.
• Integrate automated tests into CI/CD pipelines (Azure DevOps).
• Analyse test results, identify defects, and support root-cause investigations.
• Collaborate across R&D teams to improve software quality and test coverage.
• Contribute to test strategy discussions, documentation, and continuous improvement.
• Assist in building and maintaining test environments, virtual devices, and simulators.

Qualifications

• Degree level or equivalent in a relevant engineering discipline (e.g. electronics, software) .

Experience

• Hands-on experience developing and maintaining automated test scripts and frameworks (Python, C#, or JavaScript preferred).
• Strong understanding of software testing principles including functional, regression, integration, and system testing.
• Practical experience connecting test automation frameworks to physical hardware, such as I/O modules, relays, or simulated field devices.
• Familiarity with serial communications protocols (RS-232, RS-485, Modbus, CAN, TCP/IP).
• Experience building test systems that combine hardware inputs/outputs with automated verification of software behaviour.
• Experience using version control systems (Git) and collaborative development workflows.
• Working knowledge of API testing, scripting, and continuous integration tools (Azure DevOps, GitHub Actions, or Jenkins).
• Strong problem-solving ability with a methodical and analytical approach.
• Experience with National Instruments LabVIEW, TestStand, or similar test automation environments.
• Understanding of signal conditioning, measurement accuracy, and calibration principles.
• Knowledge of electronic circuits and the ability to interpret wiring diagrams or system schematics.
• Experience integrating sensors, relays, actuators, or PLCs within automated test systems.
• Exposure to embedded firmware testing or real-time operating systems (RTOS).
• Familiarity with Docker or virtual test environments for scalable automation.

Skills / Abilities

• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Competent using Microsoft Office packages including Word, Excel, Outlook and Teams.
• The ability to manage and maintain accurate records, detailed within technical documents.
• Ability to communicate effective with staff at varying levels throughout a company.
• Good interpersonal skills and the ability to work as part of a team and under own initiative.
• Comfortable chairing discussions and capturing actionable minutes within an engineering team.
• Understanding of regulation standards and legal obligations relating to product development.

Other

• Commitment to confidentiality and data protection.
• Enthusiasm, innovation, and willingness to learn.
• Task ownership, and drive to hit deadlines