Lead/Senior Full Stack UI & API Automation QA Engineer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Lead/Senior Full Stack UI & API Automation QA Engineer

Company: The Kroger Co.

Location: Blue Ash, Ohio, United States

Job Type: Full time

Category: Quality Assurance / Software Development

Date Posted: March 04, 2026

Experience Level: Senior (10+ years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is critical for advancing the QA CoE Team's automation and quality strategy, demanding leadership and deep technical expertise in both UI and API testing.

• The position requires designing and implementing scalable automation frameworks, leveraging modern and AI-driven solutions to enhance testing efficiency and effectiveness.

• Key responsibilities include integrating automated testing into CI/CD pipelines and cloud environments, ensuring seamless deployment and continuous quality assurance.

• This role will mentor junior team members, promote best practices in test automation, and act as a code-focused, DevOps-integrated professional within the quality assurance domain.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Full Stack UI & API Automation QA Engineer," the core responsibilities and described focus on "advancing QA automation and quality strategy" and "integrating quality into CI/CD pipelines" position this role firmly within the Quality Assurance and Software Engineering domain, with a strong emphasis on operationalizing quality processes. The "Full Stack" aspect pertains to testing across different layers of the application (UI and API), not necessarily full-stack development.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and champion the design and development of robust, scalable, and maintainable automation frameworks for both UI and API testing initiatives.

• Architect and implement AI-driven and modern solutions to enhance the efficiency, coverage, and intelligence of automated test suites.

• Seamlessly integrate automated testing processes into CI/CD pipelines (e.g., Jenkins, GitHub Actions) to enable continuous integration and continuous delivery.

• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams including Engineering, Product Management, DevOps, AI, and Security to embed quality throughout the software development lifecycle.

• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to other QA team members, fostering a culture of continuous learning and best practice adoption in automation.

• Author comprehensive test cases and scripts, execute tests, and provide detailed feedback and coaching on artifacts developed during the requirements and analysis phases.

• Lead proof-of-concept projects for new automation tools and methodologies, evaluating their potential impact and scalability for the organization.

• Ensure applications are reliable, scalable, and production-ready by implementing rigorous automated testing strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The description emphasizes "leading proof-of-concept projects" and "promoting best practices," indicating a strategic and influential role beyond individual contribution, typical of a Senior or Lead QA Automation Engineer. The mention of "AI-driven solutions" suggests a forward-thinking approach to automation.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• Minimum of 8+ years of comprehensive experience in Quality Assurance and software testing.

• At least 5 years of hands-on experience in developing automated test scripts and leading process improvements within QA.

Required Skills:

• UI Automation: Extensive experience with UI automation tools such as Selenium, Playwright, or similar frameworks.

• API Automation: Proficient in automating API testing using tools like Postman, Rest Assured, Karate, or SOAP UI Pro.

• Programming Proficiency: Strong coding skills in languages commonly used for test automation, such as Java or JavaScript.

• Framework Development: Proven ability to design, build, and maintain robust automation test frameworks.

• CI/CD Integration: Experience integrating automated tests into CI/CD pipelines (e.g., Jenkins, GitHub Actions) for continuous testing.

• DevOps Principles: Understanding and application of DevOps methodologies and practices for seamless software delivery.

• Agile/Scrum: Deep experience working within Agile/Scrum development environments.

• Data Validation: Strong proficiency in using SQL for data validation and backend testing.

• Version Control: Experience with version control systems like Git (e.g., GitHub).

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with containerization technologies like Docker and orchestration tools like Kubernetes.

• Familiarity with cloud environments (AWS, Azure, GCP) and their implications for testing.

• Knowledge of performance testing tools and methodologies.

• Experience with AI-driven testing solutions or machine learning applications in QA.

• Familiarity with messaging queues like Kafka.

• Experience with test management tools (e.g., Jira with Zephyr/Xray).

📝 Enhancement Note: The "10+" implied experience derived from the "Senior" title and "8+ years" requirement strongly suggests a leadership component, meaning candidates should be prepared to discuss strategic automation initiatives and team mentorship. The extensive list of preferred skills indicates a desire for a highly skilled individual capable of tackling complex technical challenges.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate successful design and implementation of scalable, reusable automation frameworks (UI and API) that improved testing efficiency and coverage.

• Showcase case studies of process improvements driven by automation, highlighting metrics such as reduced regression testing time, increased defect detection rates, or faster release cycles.

• Provide examples of integrating automated tests into CI/CD pipelines, illustrating the practical application of DevOps principles in QA.

Process Documentation:

• Documented workflows for test automation development, execution, and reporting within an Agile/Scrum context.

• Examples of how you've standardized automation processes, ensuring consistency and maintainability across projects.

• Evidence of creating and maintaining automated test scripts that are modular, readable, and easily maintainable, adhering to coding best practices.

• Demonstrate experience in setting up and configuring test environments, including leveraging containerization (Docker) or cloud infrastructure for testing.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Lead/Senior role, the portfolio should not just list projects but should articulate the impact of those projects. Candidates should be ready to present specific examples of frameworks they've built, challenges they've overcome, and measurable improvements they've delivered. The focus is on strategic contributions and leadership in automation.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Comprehensive healthcare coverage (medical, dental, vision, prescription).

• Flexible scheduling options.

• Paid time off (holiday pay, sick pay) based on eligibility and tenure.

• Free counseling and support through the Employee Assistance Program.

• Confidential financial tools and coaching services.

• Valuable associate discounts on a wide range of products and services.

• Up to $21,000 in tuition reimbursement over your career through the Continuing Education program.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time work schedule, typically 40 hours per week.

• While on-site, flexibility in daily work hours may be available, subject to team and project needs, common in Agile environments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on national averages for similar roles and locations, adjusted for seniority. Actual compensation may differ. The provided benefits list is directly from the job description and highlights Kroger's commitment to employee well-being and professional development, which is attractive for operations professionals seeking stability and growth.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Retail (Grocery)

Company Size: Large (The Kroger Co. is the nation's largest grocer with nearly 2,800 stores and a significant employee base, indicating a complex, large-scale enterprise environment).

Founded: Over a century ago, originating from a single grocery store in Cincinnati. This long history suggests a stable, established organization with a deep understanding of its market and operational needs.

Team Structure:

• The role is part of the "QA CoE Team" (Center of Excellence), implying a specialized group focused on driving best practices and advanced capabilities in quality assurance across the organization.

• This team likely works closely with various Engineering, Product, DevOps, AI, and Security teams, indicating a highly collaborative and cross-functional operational structure.

Methodology:

• The role operates within an Agile/Scrum environment, emphasizing iterative development, rapid feedback loops, and continuous improvement.

• A strong focus on "DevOps-integrated professional" and "CI/CD pipelines" points to a methodology that breaks down silos between development, operations, and quality assurance.

• The use of "AI-driven solutions" suggests an experimental and forward-looking approach to enhancing operational efficiency and quality.

Company Website: https://www.thekrogerco.com/ (General Corporate), https://www.krogerfamilycareers.com/ (Careers)

📝 Enhancement Note: Kroger's scale suggests that operations roles here have significant impact and require robust, scalable solutions. The emphasis on "Feed the Human Spirit" and "people matter" points to a culture that values purpose and employee well-being, which is important for long-term engagement in operations roles.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level:

Reporting Structure:

Operations Impact:

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in AI-driven testing, advanced cloud testing strategies, or performance engineering.

• Leadership: Advance into a QA Manager or Director role, leading larger teams and defining broader QA strategies.

• Cross-Functional: Transition into specialized DevOps or SRE roles, leveraging deep understanding of CI/CD and system reliability.

• Technical Advancement: Become an architect for enterprise-level test automation solutions, influencing technology choices and best practices across the company.

• Continuous Learning: Utilize tuition reimbursement and extensive training programs to acquire new skills in emerging technologies relevant to QA and operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Senior" designation and "Lead" responsibilities indicate a path for individuals looking to move beyond individual contributor roles into technical leadership or management within the operations and technology space. The company's stated commitment to growth and development is a key factor for ambitious operations professionals.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site, within a corporate office setting in Blue Ash, Ohio. This implies a traditional office environment conducive to in-person collaboration.

Office Location(s):

Workspace Context:

• The role is part of the QA CoE Team, suggesting a dedicated space for QA professionals to collaborate and innovate.

• Expect access to modern development and testing tools, high-speed internet, and collaborative workspaces.

Work Schedule:

• Likely a standard 40-hour work week, common for full-time corporate roles.

• While on-site, the Agile/Scrum methodology may allow for some flexibility in daily start/end times, provided core collaboration hours are met. This supports the operational need for continuous integration and team synchronization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement suggests a preference for hands-on collaboration and team synergy, which can be beneficial for complex problem-solving in operations. Candidates should be prepared for a structured, corporate office environment.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or Recruiter call to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit.

• Technical Interview(s): In-depth discussions focusing on automation frameworks, programming skills (Java/JavaScript), UI and API testing strategies, CI/CD integration, and problem-solving scenarios. Be prepared to discuss specific tools and technologies.

• Portfolio Review/Case Study: A session where candidates present their past work, focusing on automation frameworks they've built, process improvements they've driven, and their impact. This may involve a live coding exercise or a detailed walkthrough of a past project.

• Team/Manager Interview: Discussion with the hiring manager and potential team members to assess leadership potential, collaboration style, and alignment with team dynamics and company values.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership to discuss strategic alignment and overall fit.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Impact: For each project presented, clearly articulate the problem statement, the solution you implemented (framework design, automation strategy), and the measurable business impact (e.g., reduced testing time by X%, increased defect detection by Y%, enabled faster releases).

• Showcase Frameworks: Be ready to deep-dive into the architecture of automation frameworks you've designed or significantly contributed to. Explain the rationale behind your design choices, the patterns used, and how you ensured scalability and maintainability.

• Demonstrate CI/CD Integration: Provide concrete examples of how you've integrated automated tests into CI/CD pipelines. Explain the tools used, the workflow, and any challenges overcome.

• Quantify Achievements: Use numbers and metrics wherever possible. Instead of "improved efficiency," say "reduced manual regression testing effort by 75%."

• Tailor to the Role: Emphasize your experience with UI and API automation, programming in Java/JavaScript, and experience with tools mentioned in the job description (Selenium, Playwright, Postman, Rest Assured, Jenkins, etc.).

Challenge Preparation:

• Coding Challenges: Practice coding problems in Java or JavaScript, focusing on data structures, algorithms, and object-oriented principles relevant to test automation.

• Automation Scenario Design: Be prepared to design an automation strategy for a given application feature or scenario, including tool selection, framework approach, and test data management.

• API Testing Scenarios: Practice designing API test cases, understanding request/response structures, and identifying common API vulnerabilities or edge cases.

• Troubleshooting: Be ready to discuss how you would troubleshoot a failing automated test, including debugging techniques and root cause analysis.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "leading proof-of-concept projects" and "mentoring team members" means interviewers will be looking for not just technical prowess but also leadership qualities, strategic thinking, and the ability to influence and guide others in operations.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• UI Automation: Selenium, Playwright (or similar modern browser automation frameworks).

• API Automation: Postman, Rest Assured, Karate, SOAP UI Pro (or equivalent tools for REST and SOAP API testing).

• Programming Languages: Java, JavaScript (essential for scripting and framework development).

• Version Control: Git (e.g., GitHub, GitLab, Bitbucket) for code management.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Test Management: Jira (with plugins like Zephyr or Xray) for test case management and defect tracking.

• Reporting Frameworks: Tools integrated with test runners (e.g., Extent Reports, Allure Reports) for detailed test execution summaries.

• Dashboarding: Potentially tools for visualizing test automation metrics and pipeline status.

CRM & Automation:

• While not directly a CRM role, understanding how testing impacts CRM systems or other core business applications is beneficial.

• CI/CD Tools: Jenkins, GitHub Actions, or similar for orchestrating build, test, and deployment processes.

• Containerization: Docker for creating consistent test environments.

• Orchestration: Kubernetes (preferred) for managing containerized applications and test environments at scale.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in a broad range of tools is expected. Candidates should be comfortable discussing not just what tools they've used, but how they've used them to solve specific problems, optimize processes, and integrate them into a cohesive testing strategy within a larger DevOps ecosystem.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Quality First: A deep commitment to ensuring the highest quality of software through rigorous, efficient, and intelligent testing.

• Collaboration: Actively working with development, product, and operations teams to achieve shared goals and ensure seamless product delivery.

• Innovation: Embracing new technologies and methodologies (like AI-driven solutions) to continuously improve testing processes and outcomes.

• Efficiency & Automation: Driving automation to streamline repetitive tasks, accelerate feedback loops, and enable faster, more reliable releases.

• Continuous Improvement: A mindset of constantly seeking ways to enhance processes, tools, and skills, both individually and as a team.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Working closely with developers, DevOps engineers, and product managers to understand requirements, identify risks, and ensure quality is built-in from the start.

• Knowledge Sharing: Actively participating in team discussions, sharing best practices, and mentoring junior members to elevate the collective skill set of the QA CoE.

• Feedback Loops: Providing constructive feedback on code quality, application design, and process efficiency to all stakeholders.

• DevOps Synergy: Operating as a true partner within the DevOps culture, ensuring that quality assurance is an integral part of the entire software delivery lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: Kroger's stated core values of respect, honesty, integrity, diversity, inclusion, and safety should also be considered. Operations professionals who align with these values and can demonstrate a collaborative, results-oriented approach will be highly valued.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Scaling Automation: Designing and maintaining automation frameworks that can scale effectively across a large and complex enterprise like Kroger, with diverse applications and technologies.

• AI Integration: Successfully implementing and leveraging AI-driven solutions to add genuine value to the testing process, moving beyond hype to tangible improvements.

• Cross-Team Alignment: Ensuring consistent adoption of QA best practices and automation strategies across various development teams with potentially different priorities and maturity levels.

• Legacy Systems: Navigating and integrating automation with potentially older or legacy systems while also supporting modern application development.

• Keeping Pace with Technology: Continuously learning and adapting to rapidly evolving automation tools, programming languages, and cloud technologies.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Automation Techniques: Opportunities to explore and implement cutting-edge automation strategies, including AI/ML in testing, shift-left testing, and codeless automation solutions.

• Cloud & DevOps Certifications: Utilizing tuition reimbursement to gain certifications in cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) or DevOps practices.

• Leadership Training: Developing leadership skills through company-provided programs, mentorship, and by taking on lead responsibilities within the QA CoE.

• Industry Conferences: Attending relevant QA and DevOps conferences to stay abreast of industry trends and network with peers.

• Mentorship Programs: Participating in internal mentorship programs, either as a mentor or mentee, to foster career growth and knowledge transfer.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges outlined are typical for senior roles in large organizations. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their strategies for overcoming these challenges, demonstrating problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to operational excellence.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex automation framework you designed. What were the key architectural decisions, and what challenges did you face in implementation and maintenance?" (Focus on scalability, reusability, and ROI).

• "How would you integrate UI and API automation into a CI/CD pipeline for a critical e-commerce application? What tools and processes would you use, and how would you ensure reliability?" (Demonstrate knowledge of DevOps and CI/CD integration).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Based on your understanding of Kroger, how would you align your QA automation strategy with the company's goals of reliability and customer experience?" (Research Kroger's business and relate QA impact).

• "How do you approach mentoring junior engineers and promoting best practices within a QA team?" (Highlight leadership and collaboration skills).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each case study, follow a clear structure: Problem -> Your Solution (Framework/Process) -> Implementation Details -> Results (Metrics/Impact) -> Learnings.

• Visualize Key Concepts: Use diagrams to illustrate framework architecture, CI/CD pipeline integration, or complex workflows.

• Be Ready for Deep Dives: Prepare to explain the code behind your automation scripts, the reasoning for tool choices, and how you handled specific testing challenges.

• Quantify Everything: Ensure every success story is backed by data. Show how your work directly contributed to efficiency gains, cost savings, or improved quality.

• Focus on Leadership: For this senior role, highlight instances where you led initiatives, influenced technical decisions, or mentored others.

📝 Enhancement Note: Demonstrate a clear understanding of how QA automation directly supports business objectives, particularly in a retail environment where uptime and customer experience are paramount. Highlight experience with both front-end (UI) and back-end (API) testing as requested.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided Oracle Cloud link.

• Portfolio Preparation: Curate a portfolio that showcases your most impactful automation projects. Prioritize examples of framework design, CI/CD integration, and quantifiable improvements. Be ready to present 1-2 detailed case studies.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight keywords from the job description (UI Automation, API Automation, Java, JavaScript, Selenium, Playwright, CI/CD, DevOps, Agile, SQL, framework design). Quantify achievements and clearly list your years of experience in relevant areas.

• Interview Practice: Rehearse answers to common QA automation interview questions, focusing on demonstrating technical depth, problem-solving abilities, and leadership potential. Practice presenting your portfolio with clarity and impact.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research The Kroger Co., its mission, values, and recent technological initiatives. Understand how quality assurance and automation contribute to their business success in the retail sector.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.