Software development engineer in test (sdet)

Position Summary

Avum is seeking a Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) to design, develop, and maintain scalable automated testing frameworks supporting Department of Defense programs. This hands-on technical role combines software development and quality assurance to improve test coverage, strengthen application performance, and support reliable software releases. The ideal candidate has strong object-oriented programming skills and experience building data-driven automation frameworks using the Page Object Model.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, build, and maintain scalable, reusable automated testing frameworks and test suites for complex federal applications.
• Develop data-driven testing solutions using external sources such as JSON, CSV, Excel, and databases to execute parameterized test scenarios.
• Apply the Page Object Model and object-oriented programming principles to separate test logic from user interface elements, reduce code duplication, and improve maintainability.
• Integrate and optimize automated tests within CI/CD and DevSecOps pipelines.
• Develop, execute, and maintain automated functional, regression, smoke, integration, performance, and load tests.
• Monitor automated test results, investigate failures, perform root cause analysis, and collaborate with developers to resolve defects.
• Review automation code and provide technical guidance to QA team members on coding standards and automation best practices.
• Analyze application workflows, user interfaces, and business rules to identify reusable testing patterns and opportunities to expand automation coverage.
• Evaluate testing tools, libraries, and methodologies that may improve automation efficiency, reliability, and testing speed.
• Maintain test plans, automation documentation, execution results, defect records, and performance metrics in support of contract deliverables and compliance requirements.
• Participate in Agile ceremonies, release planning, and other cross-functional development activities.

Compensation

The salary range for this position is $135,000-$150,000 annually, with a target midpoint of $142,000. Actual compensation will be determined based on experience, qualifications, certifications, and geographic location. Avum offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical (Cigna), dental and vision (Principal), 401(k), PTO, education reimbursement, and certification reimbursement.

Work Environment & Requirements

• Hybrid/remote work environment with potential on-site requirements based on contract needs.
• U.S. citizenship required.
• Security clearance: Active Secret clearance required or ability to obtain.
• Background check required.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Avum, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected class under federal, state, or local law. Avum is committed to compliance.

Requirements

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Information Technology, or a related technical field. Equivalent education, training, or professional experience may be considered.
• At least 5 years of experience in automated software testing, test automation engineering, or an SDET role.
• Proficiency in at least one object-oriented programming language, such as Java, Python, C#, TypeScript, or JavaScript.
• Hands-on experience designing and maintaining automation frameworks using the Page Object Model or similar design patterns.
• Experience developing data-driven automation frameworks that separate test scripts from test data.
• Ability to evaluate application architecture, user workflows, and business logic to design reusable automation components and testing solutions.
• Experience integrating automated tests into CI/CD pipelines.
• Proficiency with Git, including branching, merging, code reviews, and pull requests.
• Experience with Agile or Scrum development environments and modern software quality assurance practices.
• Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and root cause analysis skills.
• Ability to clearly document testing processes, results, defects, and technical findings.
• U.S. citizenship is required.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a government security clearance.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with FitNesse for Appian, Appian Locust, or other Appian testing tools.
• Appian Certified Developer credential or hands-on experience testing Appian applications.
• Experience with performance and load-testing tools such as Apache JMeter, LoadRunner, or Locust.
• Experience testing applications hosted within secure cloud environments, preferably AWS.
• Experience supporting the Department of Defense or other federal government programs.
• Familiarity with government procurement systems, federal acquisition processes, FAR, or DFARS requirements.
• Relevant certifications such as ISTQB Certified Tester Advanced Level Test Automation Engineering, Certified Associate in Software Testing, AWS Certified Developer, or DAWIA Test and Evaluation certification.