Senior Test Analyst

Smart4 Cloud Limited; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 750,000 - 1,050,000; Full time

Job summary

Smart4 Cloud Limited in Sandton seeks a Senior Test Analyst to lead testing activities across complex software initiatives, ensuring high-quality delivery and governance.

You will mentor QA staff, design test strategies, oversee functional, integration, and non-functional testing, and work with analysts, developers, product owners and project managers. 5+ years’ experience required; ISTQB certification preferred.

Qualifications

• Diploma or Degree in IT, Computer Science, or related field.
• ISTQB Advanced Test Analyst or equivalent certification.

Responsibilities

• Lead the definition and execution of test strategies, plans, and approaches for projects and releases.
• Analyse complex business and technical requirements to define comprehensive test coverage.
• Estimate testing effort, identify risks, and provide input into delivery planning.
• Ensure testing aligns with organisational quality standards and best practices.
• Design, review, and maintain high-quality test scenarios, cases, and data.
• Execute and oversee functional, integration, system, regression, and end-to-end testing.
• Coach and mentor Test Analysts and junior QA team members.

Skills

Test strategy

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Quality governance

Analytical skills

Communication

Automation exposure

API testing

SQL

CI/CD

SDLC/STLC

Education

Diploma or Degree in IT

ISTQB Advanced Test Analyst

Tools

Jira

Azure DevOps

TestRail

Zephyr

Job description

12 Month Contract

Sandton

Crim and Credit Clear

Will be required to do the Hackerrank Assessment and the minimum score to be accepted is 80%.

A leading financial services provider in South Africa, offering banking, insurance, asset management, and wealth management solutions to individuals, businesses, and institutions. We are committed to delivering innovative and sustainable financial solutions that contribute to the economic growth and development of our communities.

Position Summary

The Senior Test Analyst is responsible for leading and managing testing activities across complex software initiatives. This role ensures high-quality software delivery and provides mentorship and quality governance within the testing function. It combines hands-on testing with strategic planning, coordination, and stakeholder engagement, ensuring alignment with organisational quality standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the definition and execution of test strategies, plans, and approaches for projects and releases.
• Analyse complex business and technical requirements to define comprehensive test coverage.
• Estimate testing effort, identify risks, and provide input into delivery planning.
• Ensure testing aligns with organisational quality standards and best practices.
• Design, review, and maintain high-quality test scenarios, cases, and data.
• Execute and oversee functional, integration, system, regression, and end-to-end testing.
• Guide automation testing efforts and identify opportunities for test optimisation.
• Ensure non-functional testing requirements (performance, security, usability) are considered.
• Manage defect lifecycle, ensuring clear logging, prioritisation, and resolution.
• Perform root cause analysis and recommend quality improvements.
• Provide go/no-go recommendations based on test outcomes and risk assessment.
• Work closely with Business Analysts, Developers, Product Owners, and Project Managers.
• Translate testing risks and issues into clear, business-focused insights.
• Support and coordinate User Acceptance Testing (UAT) activities.
• Coach and mentor Test Analysts and junior QA team members.
• Review test artefacts and provide constructive feedback.
• Drive continuous improvement in test processes, tools, and practices.

Required Qualifications

• Diploma or Degree in IT, Computer Science, or related field (or equivalent experience).

Preferred Qualifications

• ISTQB Advanced Test Analyst or equivalent certification.

Skills Required

• Advanced knowledge of testing methodologies, SDLC/STLC, and quality assurance practices.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Ability to lead testing efforts independently across multiple workstreams.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Strong attention to detail with a strategic quality mindset.
• Experience with test management and defect tracking tools (e.g. Jira, Azure DevOps, TestRail, Zephyr).
• Solid experience with manual testing and exposure to test automation frameworks.
• Proficiency in API testing tools (e.g. Postman).
• SQL for data validation and test analysis.
• Familiarity with CI/CD and Agile delivery environments (Scrum / SAFe).

Experience Level

5+ years' experience in software testing, with at least 2 years in a senior or lead capacity.

Working Conditions/Environment

The role is based in a dynamic and fast-paced working environment, requiring proactive and collaborative engagement with cross-functional teams. The candidate should be comfortable working in complex project landscapes and managing multiple priorities effectively.