Senior Quality Assurance Automation Engineer

Senior Quality Assurance Automation Engineer (12-Month Contract, W2)Locations: Multiple U.S. locations (remote / hybrid possible)Type: Contract (12 months) — W2 only, no C2CAbout the RoleWe are looking for a highly experienced Senior QA Automation Engineer to lead and own test automation efforts across web, API, and backend services. The ideal candidate will design robust frameworks, integrate with CI/CD pipelines, mentor junior engineers, and drive quality metrics.Key ResponsibilitiesArchitect, build, and maintain scalable automated test frameworks (UI, API, integration)Write, review, and execute automated test scripts using modern tools and languagesDevelop and implement test strategies (smoke, regression, end-to-end)Integrate automated tests into CI/CD pipelines (Jenkins, GitLab CI, Azure DevOps, etc.)Perform API testing (REST/SOAP) and validate backend servicesConduct test planning, risk analysis, and track quality metricsCollaborate with cross-functional teams (Dev, Product, Ops) throughout the SDLCIdentify, log, and track defects; coordinate with developers for resolutionMentor and coach junior QA engineers on best practices, frameworks, and test designStay up-to-date with new testing tools, emerging trends (performance testing, security testing, AI-assisted testing, etc.)Required Skills & QualificationsExperience: 6+ years in software quality assurance, with substantial hands-on automationProgramming Languages: Strong proficiency in Java, Python, or JavaScript/TypeScript Automation Tools: Expertise in Selenium WebDriver, Playwright, Cypress, or similar frameworkAPI Testing: Experience with REST/SOAP API testing using tools like REST Assured, Postman, or similar CI/CD: Hands-on experience integrating tests within CI/CD pipelines (e.g., Jenkins, GitLab CI, Azure DevOps) Test Framework Design: Strong understanding of test automation design patterns, modular frameworks, BDD (e.g., Cucumber) is desirable Performance / Load Testing: Familiarity with performance testing tools (JMeter, k6, Gatling) is a plusSecurity Testing (Nice-to-Have): Awareness of basic security testing (OWASP, SAST/DAST) Database: Ability to validate data using SQL; experience in DB testingDevelopment Methodology: Experience working in Agile/Scrum environmentsVersion Control: Proficient in Git or similar VCSCommunication: Strong verbal/written skills; able to communicate quality metrics, risks, and test results to stakeholdersPreferred QualificationsExperience with cloud-based testing (AWS, Azure, GCP)Experience with mobile automation (Appium or similar)Experience introducing AI or ML–driven testing or self-healing automationExperience in leading or mentoring teamsEducationBachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or equivalent experience preferred