Senior Lead Engineer SDET

Lead Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET)We are looking for a handson Lead Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) to lead quality engineering for product teams through an automationfirst approach. The ideal candidate combines strong Java programming, test automation, and framework design skills with the ability to work closely with engineers, improve testability, contribute code when needed, and drive reliable delivery through CI/CD in an insurance technology environment. Key ResponsibilitiesLead endtoend quality engineering for product teams with an automationfirst mindset.Design, build, and maintain scalable UI, API, integration, and mobile automation frameworks using Java and modern test engineering practices.Write reusable, maintainable code and work with engineers to improve testability, review technical solutions, and contribute to engineering work when needed.Integrate automated tests into CI/CD pipelines, establish quality gates, and improve release confidence and execution speed.Translate requirements and architecture changes into effective test strategies covering functional, regression, integration, and riskbased validation.Drive shiftleft quality practices, root cause analysis, defect prevention, and continuous improvement across the delivery lifecycle.Mentor SDETs and quality engineers on automation architecture, coding standards, debugging, and modern QE practices.Provide clear quality metrics, release readiness insights, and stakeholder reporting while ensuring alignment with enterprise and regulatory standards.QualificationsB.Tech/B.E. in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related discipline, or MCA.812 years of experience in SDET, test automation, or quality engineering roles within product or platform teams.Strong Java programming skills and handson experience building or evolving UI and API automation frameworks using Selenium, Rest Assured, and related tools.Experience integrating automation into CI/CD pipelines using Jenkins, GitHub copilot, DevOps or similar platforms.Solid understanding of software engineering fundamentals, test design, SQL/database validation, and troubleshooting across application and service layers.Experience working in Agile teams with tools such as JIRA, along with strong problemsolving, communication, and mentoring skills.Insurance domain knowledge and mobile automation experience are preferred; ISTQB, Scrum, SAFe, or cloud/Devops certifications are a plus.MustHave SkillsStrong handson Java programming and the ability to write maintainable, engineeringgrade code.Proven experience building or scaling UI and API automation frameworks.Handson expertise with Selenium, Rest Assured, Postman, and CI/CDintegrated test automation.Ability to work closely with engineers, contribute to technical discussions, and step into engineering work when needed.Strong understanding of test strategy, regression optimization, defect analysis, and mentoring of SDETs or QEs.LocationThis position can be based in any of the following locations: Chennai, Gurgaon .