PR026-011 - UI AUTOMATED TEST ENGINEER

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: UI Automated Test Engineer

Company: QTEC Aerospace

Location: Colorado Springs, CO

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Software Engineering / Quality Assurance Operations

Date Posted: 2026-08-28

Experience Level: 1-6 Years (based on degree alternative)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Develop and implement automated testing frameworks for User Interface (UI) products within a complex Missile Defense System (MDS).

• Engage in software development using Java, C++, and Python to support UI functionalities and testing initiatives.

• Collaborate with multi-contractor teams and government stakeholders to ensure the quality and reliability of critical defense systems.

• Execute and maintain test scripts, contributing to the overall software development lifecycle and quality assurance strategy.

• Utilize a variety of development and testing tools, including version control systems and issue tracking platforms, to streamline workflows.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the role title is "UI Automated Test Engineer," the description emphasizes software development in Java, C++, and Python for the UI, alongside designing and implementing an automated testing framework. This suggests a hybrid role with strong development responsibilities within a quality assurance context, particularly for building the automation infrastructure itself rather than just executing existing scripts. The "Operations" category is therefore interpreted as encompassing the operational aspects of software quality and development lifecycle management for critical systems.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement robust automated testing frameworks for the suite of UI products, ensuring comprehensive test coverage.

• Write and maintain automated test scripts using Python, Java, and C++ to validate UI functionality, performance, and stability.

• Collaborate with software development teams to integrate automated testing into the CI/CD pipeline, enabling continuous integration and rapid feedback loops.

• Assist in the design and implementation of testing strategies for UI components, ensuring alignment with project requirements and industry best practices for software quality.

• Utilize version control systems like Git/Gitlab for code management and collaboration within the development team.

• Work with issue tracking tools such as JIRA and documentation platforms like Confluence to manage test cases, defects, and project progress.

• Participate in code reviews for both production code and test automation scripts to ensure quality, maintainability, and adherence to standards.

• Support the software development lifecycle by providing timely and accurate feedback on product quality and test results.

• Troubleshoot and debug issues identified during automated testing, working with development teams to resolve them efficiently.

• Prepare and present technical findings, test results, and recommendations to cross-functional teams and customer stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities have been expanded to reflect the dual nature of development and testing, common in roles focused on building automation frameworks. Emphasis is placed on the operational aspects of maintaining and improving the testing infrastructure, integrating with development workflows, and communicating results, which are critical for a "UI Automated Test Engineer" role within a defense context.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related technical field.

• Alternatively, a combination of post-secondary education or training in a related discipline with a minimum of 6 years of relevant work experience will be considered in lieu of a degree. Experience:

• Minimum of 1 year of related experience in software development or automated testing, coupled with a relevant degree.

• Or, a minimum of 6 years of directly relevant work experience, particularly in software engineering, quality assurance, or automated testing roles. Required Skills:

• Proficiency in software development using Java, C++, and Python, with a focus on UI-related development.

• Demonstrated ability to design and implement automated testing frameworks.

• Experience developing test scripts in Python for automated testing purposes.

• Familiarity with version control systems, specifically Git and Gitlab.

• Knowledge of common software development and management tools such as Confluence and JIRA for collaboration and issue tracking.

• Understanding of software engineering principles and Python development best practices.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and prepare/brief customer presentations.

• Proven self-starter with the ability to work independently and contribute effectively within a team environment.

• Willingness to take on unanticipated tasks and adapt to evolving project needs. Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity with Integrated Development Environments (IDEs) such as Eclipse and VS Code.

• Experience with build automation and dependency management tools like Maven and Gradle.

• Knowledge of legacy version control systems such as ClearCase.

• Experience with continuous integration and continuous delivery (CI/CD) tools like Jenkins.

• Familiarity with GUI automation libraries like PyAutoGUI.

• Experience with optical character recognition (OCR) tools like Tesseract for UI element verification.

• Experience working in an Agile development environment.

• Security+ certification.

• Experience using the Selenium framework for web application testing.

📝 Enhancement Note: The distinction between required and preferred skills is based on explicit mentions in the job description. The "6 years of relevant work experience" alternative to a degree is highlighted as a significant qualification pathway. The preferred skills are directly extracted from the "Desired Knowledge, Skills and Abilities" section and framed within the context of a QA operations role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Examples of automated testing frameworks designed and implemented, showcasing methodology and architecture.

• Demonstrations of automated test scripts written in Python, Java, or C++ for UI validation, highlighting complexity and effectiveness.

• Case studies illustrating how automated testing contributed to improved software quality, reduced testing cycles, or identified critical defects.

• Documentation of process improvements or workflow optimizations related to software testing and development pipelines.

• Evidence of experience with version control (Git/Gitlab) and issue tracking systems (JIRA), showcasing collaborative workflows. Process Documentation:

• Documented workflows for the design, development, and maintenance of automated test suites.

• Procedures for integrating automated testing into CI/CD pipelines and development lifecycles.

• Methodologies for defect tracking, reporting, and resolution within a collaborative team setting.

• Standards for test script development, code reviews, and documentation of test cases and results.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the role's focus on developing an automated testing framework, a portfolio demonstrating practical application of these skills is crucial. The requirements are tailored to showcase the candidate's ability to build, maintain, and integrate testing processes and systems, aligning with the operational aspect of ensuring software quality for critical systems.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $82,000 - $160,000 per year

Benefits:

• Comprehensive healthcare coverage.

• Dental insurance.

• Vision insurance.

• Life insurance.

• Disability insurance.

• 401(k) retirement plan with potential company match.

• Company-paid holidays.

• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) for vacation and personal needs.

• Eligibility for a discretionary annual bonus, rewarding individual contributions and company performance. Working Hours:

• Standard full-time work schedule, typically 40 hours per week. While not explicitly stated as flexible, the nature of defense contracting often implies adherence to core business hours, with potential for overtime based on project demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range and benefits are directly extracted from the provided text. The working hours are inferred as standard full-time (40 hours) based on the "FULL_TIME" employment type. The note about potential overtime is a common consideration in defense contracting roles.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Aerospace & Defense, Government Contracting

Company Size: QTEC Aerospace is part of a larger entity, indicated by the "PR026-011" job code and the focus on supporting a Missile Defense System. While the exact size of QTEC Aerospace isn't specified, the context suggests it operates within a significant sector with established processes and client relationships. The company website (qtecinc.applicantpro.com, with a derived domain of qtecinc.com) indicates it is a professional services firm.

Founded: The founding date of QTEC Aerospace is not provided in the job description. However, the company's involvement in supporting Missile Defense programs suggests a history of established operations and expertise in the defense sector.

Team Structure:

• The role is part of a multi-contractor team supporting a major Missile Defense System.

• The successful candidate will work with professionals representing both industry and government.

• Collaboration will extend across cross-functional teams, requiring strong interpersonal and communication skills.

• The reporting structure likely involves a team lead or program manager within the QTEC Aerospace contingent. Methodology:

• Emphasis on software development and automated testing for critical UI products.

• Application of standard software engineering and quality assurance methodologies.

• Use of collaboration tools (JIRA, Confluence) and version control systems (Git/Gitlab) implies adherence to structured development processes.

• A focus on detail-orientation and a positive work ethic are highlighted as key operational values.

Company Website: https://qtecinc.applicantpro.com/jobs/4191353 (direct job link) / qtecinc.com (company domain)

📝 Enhancement Note: The company context is inferred from the job title, description, and inferred industry. The "Operations" aspect is tied to the operational excellence required in defense contracting, focusing on process, quality, and collaboration within a complex project environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as an Engineer/Specialist level within the Quality Assurance and Software Development operations. It requires a foundational understanding of automated testing and software development, with potential to grow into more senior or specialized roles within test automation, software engineering, or program management.

Reporting Structure: The UI Automated Test Engineer will report to a lead or manager within the QTEC Aerospace team, who in turn likely interfaces with government program managers and other contractor leads. This structure emphasizes clear lines of communication and accountability within a project-focused environment.

Operations Impact: The primary impact of this role is ensuring the quality, reliability, and usability of the User Interface for a critical Missile Defense System. By developing and maintaining effective automated testing frameworks, the engineer directly contributes to the system's operational readiness, reduces risks associated with software defects, and supports efficient development cycles. This operational excellence is paramount in the defense sector.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in UI automation, specific programming languages (Python, Java, C++), or particular testing methodologies (e.g., performance testing, security testing).

• Leadership: Progress to a Senior UI Automated Test Engineer, Test Lead, or Automation Architect role, overseeing more complex projects or mentoring junior engineers.

• Cross-Functional Movement: Transition into roles within software development, systems engineering, or program management, leveraging a strong understanding of the full development lifecycle and quality assurance principles.

• Technical Certifications: Pursue relevant certifications (e.g., Security+, ISTQB) to enhance technical credibility and expand career options within the defense industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: The analysis focuses on how this role fits into the broader operational landscape of a defense contractor, emphasizing the impact of QA on system readiness and the pathways for career progression within such an environment.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is on-site in Colorado Springs, CO, indicating a traditional office environment common within government contracting and aerospace firms. This setting typically facilitates direct collaboration, secure access to necessary systems, and adherence to company protocols.

Office Location(s): Colorado Springs, Colorado. This location is a hub for defense and aerospace industries, offering a concentrated environment of related companies and government agencies.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is likely equipped with standard office technology and secure network access required for defense projects.

• Opportunities for direct, in-person collaboration with team members, including developers, other testers, and potentially government representatives.

• Access to specialized software development and testing tools, as well as internal documentation and knowledge-sharing platforms.

• A professional atmosphere that prioritizes security, precision, and adherence to rigorous standards.

Work Schedule: While the job is full-time (40 hours/week), work within the defense sector can sometimes require flexibility to meet critical project deadlines. Core hours are expected, but occasional overtime may be necessary. The emphasis on detail and quality suggests a structured approach to daily tasks.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site nature and location in Colorado Springs are emphasized, along with the typical workspace environment found in defense contracting, which prioritizes security and collaboration.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or recruiter review of application and resume, focusing on key skills, experience, and security clearance.

• Technical Interview: In-depth discussion covering programming languages (Python, Java, C++), automated testing concepts, framework design, experience with tools (Git, JIRA, Confluence), and problem-solving scenarios related to UI testing.

• Portfolio Review: Presentation and discussion of relevant projects, focusing on automated testing frameworks built, test scripts developed, and demonstrated impact on software quality or efficiency.

• Behavioral Interview: Assessment of fit with company culture, teamwork, communication skills, and ability to handle challenges.

• Security Clearance Verification: Confirmation of current DoD SECRET clearance.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Framework Design: Clearly articulate the architecture and rationale behind any automated testing frameworks you've designed. Highlight the technologies used and the problems they solved.

• Code Examples: Be prepared to walk through snippets of your Python, Java, or C++ test scripts, explaining your coding style, error handling, and efficiency considerations.

• Impact Metrics: Quantify the benefits of your automation efforts. Examples include reduction in test execution time, increase in defect detection rates, or cost savings.

• Tool Proficiency: Demonstrate your practical experience with Git/Gitlab, JIRA, and Confluence, explaining how you've used them to manage code and track issues effectively.

• Problem-Solving: Present a case study of a challenging UI bug or testing bottleneck you encountered and how you used automation to address it.

Challenge Preparation:

• Coding Exercises: Expect practical coding challenges, potentially involving writing a Python script to automate a simple UI task or solving a logic puzzle related to testing.

• Scenario-Based Questions: Prepare to discuss how you would approach designing an automated test suite for a new UI feature or troubleshooting a flaky automated test.

• Tool Usage: Be ready to explain your workflow using Git for version control and JIRA for issue tracking, demonstrating your understanding of collaborative development processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section provides actionable advice tailored to the specific requirements of the UI Automated Test Engineer role, emphasizing the need to showcase practical skills in automation framework development and coding, alongside collaborative tool usage and problem-solving within a defense context.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Programming Languages: Java, C++, Python (for UI development and test scripting).

• Version Control: Git, Gitlab (essential for code management and collaboration).

• Issue Tracking & Project Management: JIRA, Confluence (for managing test cases, bugs, and documentation).

Automation & Testing:

• Automated Testing Frameworks: Design and implementation of custom frameworks.

• UI Automation Libraries: Selenium (preferred), PyAutoGUI (desired).

• Build & Dependency Management: Maven, Gradle (preferred).

• Continuous Integration/Continuous Delivery (CI/CD): Jenkins (desired).

Development Environments:

• IDEs: Eclipse, VS Code (desired).

• Legacy Systems: ClearCase (desired, may be relevant for older projects).

Other Desired Tools:

• OCR: Tesseract (for visual verification aspects of UI testing).

• Certifications: Security+ (desired, indicates foundational cybersecurity knowledge relevant to defense systems).

📝 Enhancement Note: The tools and technology stack are directly compiled from the "Required" and "Desired" skills sections, categorized for clarity. This list is crucial for operations professionals to assess their tool proficiency against the role's requirements.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Detail-Orientation: Critical for ensuring the accuracy and reliability of UI components in a defense system.

• Positive Work Ethic: Essential for successful collaboration within a demanding, multi-contractor environment.

• Collaboration: Strong emphasis on working effectively with cross-functional teams and government stakeholders.

• Adaptability: Willingness to take on unanticipated tasks and adapt to evolving project requirements.

• Quality & Reliability: A core value in defense contracting, ensuring the integrity and performance of mission-critical systems.

• Security Consciousness: Adherence to strict security protocols and maintaining a DoD SECRET clearance.

Collaboration Style:

• Team-Oriented: Work within a multi-contractor team, requiring open communication and shared responsibility.

• Cross-Functional Integration: Close collaboration with software developers, systems engineers, and potentially government program managers.

• Proactive Communication: Regular updates and clear reporting of test status, issues, and findings.

• Process Adherence: Following established development and testing workflows, utilizing tools like JIRA and Confluence for transparent project management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values and collaboration style are inferred from the job description's emphasis on teamwork, detail, customer interaction, and the nature of defense contracting, which inherently values precision and secure collaboration.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complexity of the Missile Defense System: Understanding and testing intricate UI components within a large-scale, critical system requires significant technical depth and continuous learning.

• Maintaining Automation Frameworks: Ensuring automated tests remain stable and effective as the UI and underlying system evolve can be challenging.

• Multi-Contractor Environment: Navigating different team dynamics, processes, and reporting structures within a multi-vendor project.

• Security Requirements: Adhering to strict security protocols and maintaining a DoD SECRET clearance.

• Unanticipated Tasking: Adapting quickly to new or changing requirements and taking on diverse tasks as needed.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Automation Techniques: Gaining expertise in sophisticated UI automation strategies, performance testing, and integration testing.

• Domain Knowledge: Deepening understanding of Missile Defense Systems and the broader aerospace and defense industry.

• Programming Language Mastery: Enhancing skills in Java, C++, and Python through hands-on project work.

• Agile Methodologies: Developing practical experience in Agile development environments.

• Professional Certifications: Opportunities to obtain industry-recognized certifications like Security+ or specialized QA certifications.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges are framed around the specific context of the role (defense system, automation maintenance, multi-contractor) and potential growth areas are mapped to skill enhancement and career progression within the operations and engineering domain.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Operations Strategy: "Describe how you would design an automated testing framework for a complex UI with evolving requirements. What factors would you consider, and what tools would you prioritize?"

• Collaboration & Stakeholder Management: "How would you communicate test results and potential risks to both your development team and government stakeholders?"

• Problem-Solving: "Imagine an automated UI test is consistently failing due to intermittent issues. How would you approach diagnosing and resolving this problem?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working on a Missile Defense System, and how do you see your role contributing to its success?"

• "Describe your experience working in a team environment, especially within a multi-contractor setting. How do you ensure effective collaboration?"

• "How do you prioritize your work when faced with multiple competing tasks, including development, testing, and potentially unanticipated assignments?" Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Framework Overview: Begin with a high-level overview of a framework you built. Explain its purpose, key components, and the technologies used.

• Code Walkthrough: Select a representative test script and walk through its logic. Explain your coding practices, error handling, and how you ensured reusability.

• Demonstrated Impact: Use specific metrics (e.g., time saved, bugs found) to illustrate the value your automation efforts brought to previous projects.

• Tool Integration: Show how you integrated your automation efforts with tools like Git for version control and JIRA for issue tracking.

• Q&A: Be prepared for detailed questions about your design choices, challenges faced, and solutions implemented.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview questions are crafted to probe for the specific skills and operational mindset required for this role, focusing on automation strategy, problem-solving, and collaborative execution within the defense industry. Portfolio presentation advice is directly linked to showcasing practical, results-driven automation work.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on qtecinc.applicantpro.com.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight experience with Java, C++, Python, automated testing frameworks, Git/Gitlab, JIRA, and Confluence. Quantify achievements where possible, especially regarding efficiency gains or quality improvements.

• Portfolio Preparation: Select 2-3 key projects that best showcase your ability to design and implement automated testing frameworks and write effective test scripts. Be ready to discuss your technical approach, challenges, and results.

• Interview Practice: Prepare for technical questions on programming languages and testing concepts. Practice explaining your portfolio projects clearly and concisely, focusing on your role and impact.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with QTEC Aerospace and the Missile Defense System program. Understand the company's mission and the critical nature of the work. Be ready to articulate why you are a good fit for this specific role and environment.

⚠️ 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.