Python QA Automation Engineer (Manual Automation testing, Azure DevOps)

Project Description:

One of the biggest UK rail network companies operating with rail infrastructure and asset management has a need to develop and support enterprise-level information systems.

Responsibilities:

Design and execute test strategies for complex, distributed systems with a focus on both functional and non-functional testing.
Write and maintain Python-based automation scripts using frameworks like PyTest, Selenium, or Robot Framework.
Embed automated tests into Azure DevOps pipelines, ensuring seamless integration with build and release processes.
Use Azure Test Plans to manage test cases, execute test runs, and generate traceability reports.
Perform hands-on exploratory, regression, and integration testing across web, API, and backend services.
Debug test failures, analyze logs, and collaborate with developers to resolve issues quickly.
Mentor junior testers, conduct code reviews for test scripts, and enforce QA best practices.
Work closely with DevOps engineers to maintain test environments and ensure test data consistency.
Contribute to the continuous improvement of QA tools, processes, and documentation.

Mandatory Skills Description:

2+ years of hands-on experience in software QA, with a strong mix of manual and automation testing.
Proficiency in Python for test automation and scripting.
Solid experience with Azure DevOps (Pipelines, Repos, Boards, Test Plans).
Strong knowledge of CI/CD practices and integrating automated tests into pipelines.
Experience with Selenium WebDriver, PyTest, or Robot Framework.
Familiarity with REST API testing using tools like Postman or Python-based libraries (e.g., requests, pytest-httpx).
Strong understanding of Agile/Scrum methodologies and QA processes.
Excellent troubleshooting, communication, and collaboration skills.

Nice-to-Have Skills Description:

Experience with BDD frameworks (e.g., Behave, Cucumber).
Exposure to Docker, Kubernetes, and cloud platforms (especially Azure).
Performance testing experience using tools like JMeter or Locust.
ISTQB Advanced Level or equivalent certifications.

• English: B2 Upper Intermediate