Mid-Level Tester

PLANIT Group; Virginia (MN); On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

PLANIT Group is looking for a Mid-Level Tester to support the testing of a complex payroll software application. This remote position requires strong knowledge of the software development cycle and experience with manual and automated testing methods.

The ideal candidate will have at least eight years of experience and expertise in payroll processes. They will work closely with developers to ensure high-quality software meets regulatory standards and requirements.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in software development or quality assurance.
• Ability to perform functional duties independently.
• Experience with formal software testing methodologies.

Responsibilities

• Define and document system integration tests for payroll software.
• Analyze test results and provide recommendations.
• Ensure tests meet US Government TSLC standards.

Skills

Software development cycle knowledge

Test automation

Payroll domain knowledge

Problem-solving skills

Communication skills

Time management

Attention to detail

Education

Degree in Software Engineering or related field

Tools

AI/ML tools

DevSecOps

Agile Scrum

Defect tracking tools (e.g. Rational, Mercury)

Job description

Mid-Level Tester (Remote)

Responsibilities

• Interact with developers and other stakeholders to define, document, analyze, execute, and interpret system integration tests for a complex payroll software application
• Review user requirements documentation and develop test plans to verify requirements have been met
• Develop test data for performing tests
• Transform test plans into test scripts
• Ensure proper execution of test scripts and document test results in tracking systems
• Analyze test results, document conclusions, and make recommendations supported by test results
• Ensure testing procedures and results are in compliance with required US Government Client Technology Solution Life Cycle (TSLC) standards
• Functional Testing: verify that each feature of the software works as specified in the requirements
  • Smoke Testing: Quick, initial testing for critical functions
  • Regression Testing: Ensure new code changes haven't broken existing functionality
  • End‑to‑End (E2E) Testing: Validate complete system/user flows from start to finish

Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of software development cycle and testing methodologies
• Proficient in running manual tests and able to incorporate automated testing processes to enhance efficiency and reduce expenses
• Payroll domain knowledge:
  • Understanding of payroll cycles, tax calculations, deductions, benefits, etc.
  • Knowledge of federal, state, and local payroll laws and regulations
  • Payroll calculations such as gross‑to‑net pay, benefits deductions, garnishments, bonuses
  • Payroll cycle end‑to‑end processes such as new hire onboarding, timesheet and HR integration, payroll simulation, paycheck creation, termination/final pay processing
  • Retroactive calculations and back pay for salary revisions
  • Basic understanding of accounting related to payroll
• Experience using AI‑driven tools that automatically generate test scripts based on system requirements, user stories, or existing application behavior
• Attention to Detail: critical for identifying discrepancies in payroll calculations that could lead to financial penalties or legal issues
• Problem‑Solving Skills: ability to analyze issues and payroll anomalies, determine if a discrepancy is a system bug or input error, and work with developers to resolve them
• Strong Communication Skills: clear communication with developers, business analysts, and stakeholders
• Time Management: manage testing schedules to meet deadlines and payroll cycles
• Successful candidates will ensure quality software solutions that meet the specified requirements and reduce the risk of errors and customer dissatisfaction

Additional Technical Skills

• DevSecOps
• Agile Scrum
• VersionOne or equivalent Agile project management software
• Knowledge of and experience with SDLC practices
• PLSQL
• Payroll systems and processing
• AI/ML tools (CoPilot, WatsonX, ReDux, others) for code analysis, pattern recognition, or modernization support
• Mainframe knowledge a plus

Additional Required Experience

• A minimum of eight (8) years experience in software development, software quality assurance/control, and/or related field
• A degree from an accredited College/University in Software Engineering, Computer Science, or related discipline is preferred
• Able to perform all functional duties independently on high‑visibility programs or mission­critical aspects of a program
• Able to oversee the efforts of direct reporting resources and/or be responsible for the efforts of all staff assigned to a specific job
• Experience training/mentoring less experienced personnel
• Extensive knowledge of and experience with formal software testing for complex software applications
• Extensive experience testing software applications, identifying/documenting defects, and working with developers and end users to resolve defects
• Extensive experience with multiple defect tracking tools (e.g., Rational, Mercury)
• Extensive experience authoring software‑quality‑related documentation such as requirements specifications, test plans, test cases, test scripts and test reports
• Able to obtain Postal clearance
• Excellent communication skills

Security and Clearance Requirements

• Pass both a client‑mandated clearance process that includes drug screening, criminal history check and credit check
• Failure to submit the drug screening results will delay the security clearance process
• Once a candidate’s resume is approved and interview passed, the agency is responsible for providing drug screening
• If a candidate is given an interim clearance, continuation of employment is then based on the candidate receiving a sensitive clearance
• All candidates must be a U.S. Citizen or have permanent residence status (Green Card)
• Candidate must have lived in the U.S. for the past 5 years
• Cannot have more than 6 months travel outside the United States within the last five years (Military Service excluded)

Other Requirements and Policies

• All overtime must be pre‑approved in writing by the client manager or his/her designated representative
• Agency will not be reimbursed for overtime charges without previous written authorization; authorized overtime will be reimbursed at straight time
• The enforced dress code is business casual: collared shirt with slacks for men, no skirts above the knee for women

Hours and Travel

• Hours of support: standard work week for contract staff will be 5 days a week, 8 hours per day, preferably Monday through Friday
• Contract staff may be required to travel to support business efforts