Lead Software Developer in Test - QABoston, MAOnsiteDirect Hire$130k - $175kA leading financial services organization is investing heavily in modernizing its cloud-based technology platform and is seeking a Lead Software Engineer in Test (SDET) to drive the next generation of quality engineering. This is a highly visible role where you'll lead the design and implementation of scalable automation frameworks, integrate AI-powered testing capabilities, and help establish engineering best practices across multiple development teams.If you're passionate about building automation from the ground up, improving software quality through engineering excellence, and leveraging emerging AI technologies to transform testing, this is an outstanding opportunity to make a significant impact.Required Skills & Experience8+ years of experience in Software Quality Engineering, QA Automation, or Software Development in Test (SDET)3+ years leading automation initiatives or serving as a technical leadExpert-level Java programming skillsExperience building automation frameworks from scratch using Selenium, Playwright, Cypress, or similar technologiesStrong API automation experience using REST Assured, Postman, or equivalent toolsExperience testing cloud-native applications within AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud PlatformExperience integrating automated testing into CI/CD pipelinesStrong understanding of software engineering principles, design patterns, and object-oriented programmingExperience with Git, Jenkins, GitHub Actions, Azure DevOps, or similar DevOps platformsStrong SQL skills and experience validating relational databasesExcellent communication and leadership skillsDesired Skills & ExperienceFinancial services, banking, fintech, asset management, or capital markets experienceExperience with AI-assisted testing tools including GitHub Copilot, Claude, OpenAI APIs, or AI-powered test generation platformsExperience building automated regression, integration, performance, and end-to-end test suitesExperience with containerized applications using Docker and KubernetesFamiliarity with Kafka, RabbitMQ, or event-driven architecturesExperience with test data management and service virtualizationKnowledge of performance testing tools such as JMeter, Gatling, or k6Experience mentoring QA engineers and developers on automation best practicesBachelor's degree in Computer Science or a related technical fieldWhat You Will Be DoingArchitect and develop enterprise-wide automation frameworks for web, API, and backend applicationsLead the technical direction of the QA Automation practice across multiple Agile engineering teamsBuild scalable Java-based automation solutions that improve software quality and release velocityIntegrate AI-powered tools to accelerate test creation, maintenance, defect analysis, and regression testingDevelop automated API, UI, integration, and end-to-end test suitesDesign cloud-native testing strategies supporting microservices and distributed applicationsPartner closely with Software Engineers, DevOps Engineers, Product Managers, and Architects throughout the SDLCImplement quality gates within CI/CD pipelines to support continuous deliveryImprove test reliability, execution speed, reporting, and overall automation coverageMentor engineers, perform code reviews, and establish automation engineering standardsEvaluate emerging QA technologies and continuously improve engineering practicesTech Breakdown40% QA Automation & Test Framework Development25% Java Software Engineering20% Cloud, DevOps & CI/CD Integration15% AI-Driven Test Engineering & InnovationDaily Responsibilities75% Hands-On Development & Automation Engineering15% Technical Leadership & Mentorship10% Cross-Functional CollaborationThe OfferYou will receive the following benefits:Competitive base salaryAnnual performance bonusMedical, Dental, and Vision insurance401(k) with company matchPaid Time Off and company holidaysFlexible work arrangementsProfessional development and certification reimbursementOpportunity to help define the future of AI-enabled software quality engineering within a leading financial services organizationApplicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis now and in the future. No sponsorship is available for this position.Specialization: QA/SDET