SDET Lead - Test Automation - Government - 12 month contract - SC Clearance - Hybrid (3 days onsite)

I am working with a government client who is looking for an SDET Lead / Principal Test Automation Specialist to lead and embed an automation-first test strategy as you support a major move from monolithic systems to microservices. You'll combine hands-on test automation with technical leadership across multiple delivery teams.

Due to the nature of the programme, candidates with active SC clearance would be preferred.
Key responsibilities

• Define and evolve an automation-first test strategy that can scale across teams.
• Embed testing practices that support distributed microservices architectures.
• Provide technical leadership on test automation within a Java-based environment.
• Contribute directly to automation frameworks and wider testing solutions.
• Set testing standards and ways of working for cross-team delivery.
• Coach and guide engineers and SDETs to improve testability and automation coverage.

I am therefore keen to speak with candidates who have

• Hands-on experience as a Lead Test Engineer, Principal SDET or similar technical test leadership role
• Solid skills in Java, Selenium, Rest Assured, API, contract, and integration testing
• Proven background driving or supporting transformation from monolithic systems to distributed microservices architectures in Java.
• Strong track record in test automation and automation-first approaches.
• Experience defining or embedding test strategies across multiple teams.
• Ability to influence engineering practices and establish testing standards.
• Willingness to remain hands-on with automation frameworks and tooling.

Interested? Apply now for immediate consideration!