Test Automation Engineer

HelloKindred; Northampton; Hybrid; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Part time

Job summary

HelloKindred is seeking a Test Automation Engineer to support design, development and execution of automated UI and API tests. The role requires strong Java expertise, Selenium with Java, REST Assured, and the ability to build robust automation frameworks integrated with CI/CD.

The position is hybrid (2–3 days in the office) with BPSS eligibility; UK-based candidates who can work legally in the UK are encouraged to apply.

Qualifications

• Strong hands-on Java experience with core concepts.
• Proficiency in Selenium with Java and UI automation.
• Experience with Playwright and API automation using REST Assured.
• Ability to design and implement automation frameworks.
• Familiarity with CI/CD integration and test execution within pipelines.
• BPSS eligibility or ability to obtain clearance.
• Eligibility to live/work in the UK.

Responsibilities

• Develop, optimize, and explain Java programs with core Java fundamentals.
• Build UI automation with Selenium for web apps.
• Create XPath expressions and locators independently.
• Develop and maintain UI automation frameworks.
• Apply Playwright for UI automation where appropriate.
• Automate and validate API tests within established frameworks.
• Integrate API tests into CI/CD pipelines.
• Design and implement UI and API automation frameworks.
• Explain framework architecture, execution strategy, and CI/CD integration clearly.

Skills

Java fundamentals

Java programming

Selenium with Java

Playwright

REST Assured

UI automation

XPath expressions

CI/CD integration

Automation frameworks

API automation

OOP concepts

Job description

HelloKindred are specialists in staffing marketing, creative and technology roles, offering a range of talent solutions that can be delivered on-site, remotely or hybrid.

Our vision is to make work accessible and people’s lives better.We do this by disrupting traditional employment barriers –connecting ambitious talent to flexible opportunities with trusted brands.

Job Description

Anticipated Contract End Date/Length:Approximately 7 months
Work Setup: Hybrid (2–3 days per week in office)
Clearance Required: BPSS eligibility

Our client in the Information Technology and Services industry is looking for a Test Automation Engineer to support the design, development, and execution of automated UI and API testing solutions. The successful candidate will bring strong hands‑on Java expertise, extensive experience with Selenium and REST Assured, and the ability to design and implement robust automation frameworks integrated with CI/CD processes.

What you will do:

• Develop, optimize, and explain Java programs using strong core Java fundamentals.
• Apply Collections, Exception Handling, and Object-Oriented Programming concepts to automation solutions.
• Build logical and efficient solutions with an understanding of complexity.
• Develop and maintain UI automation using Selenium with Java.
• Create XPath expressions and locators independently.
• Implement and maintain UI automation frameworks.
• Apply Playwright for UI automation where appropriate.
• Automate and validate API tests within established frameworks.
• Integrate API tests into automation frameworks and execution processes.
• Design and implement UI and API automation frameworks.
• Define and maintain effective framework structures and execution strategies.
• Integrate automation frameworks with CI/CD pipelines.
• Explain framework architecture, execution strategy, and CI/CD integration clearly.

Qualifications

• Bring excellent command of core Java fundamentals, including Collections, Exception Handling, and Object-Oriented Programming.
• Possess the ability to write, optimize, and clearly explain Java programs.
• Demonstrate strong logic-building capabilities and understanding of complexity.
• Bring current, hands‑on Java experience rather than outdated or primarily theoretical knowledge.
• Possess strong hands‑on experience with Selenium using Java.
• Demonstrate the ability to independently create XPath expressions and locators.
• Bring hands‑on experience with UI automation frameworks.
• Possess experience with Playwright, highly desirable.
• Bring hands‑on experience with API automation using REST Assured.
• Possess the ability to automate, validate, and integrate API tests into automation frameworks.
• Bring experience designing or implementing UI and API automation frameworks.
• Demonstrate the ability to clearly explain framework structure, execution strategy, and CI/CD integration.
• Be eligible to obtain or undergo BPSS clearance.

Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Candidates must be legally authorized to live and work in the country where the position is based, without requiring employer sponsorship.

HelloKindred is committed to fair, transparent, and inclusive hiring practices. We assess candidates based on skills, experience, and role‑related requirements.

We appreciate your interest in this opportunity. While we review every application carefully, only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

HelloKindred is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds and do not discriminate on the basis of race, colour, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.