Test Lead

Badger & Bird Talent; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 300 000 - 400 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading technology consultancy is seeking a Test Lead for a 6-month contract in Cape Town. This role entails creating a new quality strategy for an innovative wearable tech client. Responsibilities include assessing current testing practices, designing a comprehensive test strategy, and advising on best practices. Ideal for a senior professional with strong experience in QA management. Must be based in Western Cape for the duration of the contract.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Test Lead, QA Manager, or QA Architect.
• Demonstrable experience of building and implementing a test strategy from scratch.
• Deep expertise in manual testing methodologies and modern test automation.

Responsibilities

• Conducting an assessment of the current testing landscape and identifying gaps.
• Designing and documenting a comprehensive end-to-end test strategy.
• Advising leadership on best tools, frameworks, and methodologies.
• Establishing processes for test planning, case design, and reporting.
• Leading hands-on execution of manual and automated tests.

Skills

Test Lead Experience

QA Manager Experience

Consultative Mindset

Testing Methodologies

Job description

Test Lead (QA Strategy) 6-Month Contract Role Summary

We are representing a leading technology consultancy on the search for a deep subject matter expert in quality assurance.

This is a 6-month contract to act as a strategic Test Lead for their client, an innovative wearable tech company based in the Western Cape. This is not a typical testing role.

Why This Opportunity is for You

• Define the Blueprint (A Greenfield Role) – You will be the architect of a new quality strategy.
• You will not be inheriting old systems; you will be designing the future state of testing for the entire product line.
• Act as a Strategic Advisor – You will be the primary testing expert, consulting directly with the client's leadership.
• Your recommendations on best practices, tools, and methodologies will directly shape their approach to quality.
• Work in an Innovative Sector – You will be tackling the unique challenges that come from testing integrated hardware and software.
• Be the Subject Matter Expert – You will have the autonomy and backing to implement your vision for quality.
• This role is ideal for a senior professional who is confident in their expertise and can lead by example.

What You Will Be Doing

• Conducting an assessment of the current testing landscape and identifying all gaps and opportunities.
• Designing and documenting a comprehensive, end-to-end test strategy that effectively blends both manual and automated testing.
• Advising leadership on the best tools, frameworks, and methodologies for their specific product needs.
• Establishing clear processes for test planning, case design, execution, defect management, and reporting.
• Leading by example with hands‑on execution of both manual and automated tests to establish the baseline.

What You Will Bring

• Proven, senior‑level experience as a Test Lead, QA Manager, or QA Architect.
• Demonstrable experience of having built and implemented a test strategy from scratch.
• Deep expertise in both manual testing methodologies and modern test automation principles and frameworks.
• A strong consultative mindset, with the confidence and communication skills to advise and influence senior stakeholders.
• Experience with testing integrated hardware / software products (such as IoT, mobile, or wearables) is highly beneficial.

You must be based in the Western Cape for the duration of the contract.