Role & seniority: Senior Software Engineer in Test (SDET)

Stack/tools: Java and/or Python; API, backend, and UI testing; SQL/PostgreSQL; Jenkins; GitHub; Docker; CI/CD pipelines; Agile environments

Top 3 responsibilities

Build, enhance, and maintain automated testing frameworks for REST APIs, backend, UI, and data validation; integrate with Jenkins-driven CI/CD
Collaborate with development teams to improve testability, promote shift-left testing, and participate in code reviews
Develop test plans, strategies, acceptance criteria, and documentation; investigate defects and perform root-cause analysis

Must-have skills

6–10 years as an SDET/automation engineer
Strong coding in Java and/or Python
Expertise testing APIs, services, and UI components
Practical experience with Jenkins, GitHub, Docker, CI/CD
SQL/PostgreSQL knowledge
Experience in Agile environments
Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or related field
Excellent communication, analytical, and troubleshooting abilities

Nice-to-haves

Deeper data validation and performance testing skills
Experience with shift-left initiatives beyond basic testing
Prior involvement in large-scale enterprise modernization projects

Location & work type: Hybrid role; onsite 2–3 days/week in Smithfield, RI or Merrimack, NH

Full Description

Piper Companies is hiring a Senior Software Engineer in Test (SDET) to contribute to a large‑scale technology modernization effort for a major enterprise organization. This role focuses on developing robust automation frameworks, embedding quality throughout CI/CD workflows, and partnering with engineering teams to ensure scalable, reliable, and high‑performing software delivery. This is a hybrid position, requiring onsite presence 2–3 days per week in either Smithfield, RI or Merrimack, NH.

Responsibilities of the Senior Software Engineer in Test (SDET)

Build, enhance, and maintain automated testing frameworks for REST APIs, backend systems, UI applications, and data validation, using SQL/PostgreSQL, and integrate these solutions into Jenkins‑driven CI/CD pipelines. Work closely with development teams to strengthen testability, promote shift‑left testing, and participate in code reviews to maintain high standards across Agile engineering teams. Develop detailed test plans, strategies, acceptance criteria, and supporting documentation to validate quality, performance, and functional requirements. Investigate defects, perform root‑cause analysis, and provide actionable guidance to support consistent, dependable software releases.

Qualifications of the Senior Software Engineer in Test (SDET)

6–10 years of experience as an SDET or automation engineer, with strong coding abilities in Java and/or Python, and deep experience testing APIs, services, and UI components. Practical experience with Jenkins, GitHub, Docker, CI/CD pipelines, and strong SQL/PostgreSQL knowledge. Background working within Agile environments is essential. Excellent communication, analytical, and troubleshooting skills, supported by a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or a related discipline.

Compensation of the Senior Software Engineer in Test (SDET)

Salary commensurate with experience Full benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401(k), PTO, and sick leave as required by law

Application window: Opens 1/26/2026 and will remain active for at least 30 days from the posting date.

Keywords: SDET, Senior Software Engineer in Test, test automation, API testing, backend testing, UI automation, Java, Python, SQL, PostgreSQL, Jenkins, CI/CD, GitHub, Docker, Agile, shift‑left testing, test planning, root‑cause analysis, enterprise modernization, hybrid, Smithfield RI, Merrimack NH