SDET Automation Tester (API & UI)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: SDET Automation Tester (API & UI)

Company: Citi

Location: Pune, Maharashtra, India

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Software Quality Assurance / Test Automation

Date Posted: 2026-04-22

Experience Level: Mid-Level (3+ years)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Design, develop, and maintain robust automated test frameworks for API and UI components, ensuring high-quality software delivery.

• Execute comprehensive test strategies and plans, collaborating closely with development and product teams in an agile environment.

• Integrate automated tests into CI/CD pipelines for continuous validation and rapid feedback loops.

• Identify, document, and track defects, working collaboratively with developers for timely resolution and product quality improvement.

• Contribute to the enhancement of automation frameworks, adopting industry best practices for modularity, reusability, and reporting.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is specifically for a Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) with a dual focus on API and UI automation, indicating a need for deep technical skills in both areas. The hybrid work arrangement suggests a balance between in-office collaboration and remote flexibility, which is common in large financial institutions like Citi for roles involving sensitive data and team synergy.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and execute automated test scripts for both API (e.g., Rest Assured, Postman) and UI (e.g., Selenium WebDriver, Playwright) layers of applications.

• Design and implement comprehensive test strategies and detailed test plans, aligning with product roadmaps and feature requirements.

• Contribute to the architecture and evolution of the test automation framework, focusing on scalability, maintainability, and reusability.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including developers, product owners, and business analysts, to ensure thorough test coverage and early defect detection.

• Integrate automated test suites into the CI/CD pipeline (e.g., Jenkins, GitLab CI) to facilitate continuous testing and rapid deployment cycles.

• Perform root cause analysis of defects and provide detailed reports to development teams for efficient bug resolution.

• Maintain and enhance existing automation scripts, ensuring they remain relevant and effective as the application evolves.

• Create and maintain clear, concise test execution reports, dashboards, and metrics for stakeholders.

• Mentor junior QA engineers, sharing expertise in test automation techniques and best practices.

• Stay abreast of emerging trends and technologies in test automation and quality assurance to continuously improve processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly delineate a need for hands-on coding and framework development, not just script execution. The emphasis on CI/CD integration and collaboration with development teams highlights the SDET's role as a crucial part of the software development lifecycle, aligning with DevOps principles.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Information Technology, or a related technical field, or equivalent practical experience.

Experience: 3+ years of experience in software quality assurance, with a significant focus on building and maintaining test automation solutions.

Required Skills:

• Programming Proficiency: Strong command of at least one object-oriented programming language such as Java, Python, JavaScript, or C#.

• API Test Automation: Extensive experience with API testing tools and frameworks like Rest Assured, Postman (Newman), Karate DSL, or SoapUI. Ability to test RESTful and SOAP APIs for functionality, performance, and security.

• UI Test Automation: Demonstrated experience with UI test automation tools and frameworks such as Selenium WebDriver, Playwright, Cypress, or WebDriverIO.

• Web Technologies: Solid understanding of fundamental web technologies including HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.

• Web Services: Knowledge of web services protocols (REST, SOAP) and data formats (JSON, XML).

• Version Control: Proficiency with version control systems, particularly Git.

• Agile Methodologies: Familiarity with Agile development frameworks like Scrum and Kanban.

• Analytical Skills: Strong problem-solving capabilities and meticulous attention to detail for accurate defect identification and analysis.

• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for effective collaboration and reporting.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with BDD (Behavior-Driven Development) frameworks like Cucumber.

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

• Knowledge of performance testing tools (e.g., JMeter, LoadRunner).

• Experience with containerization technologies like Docker.

• Understanding of security testing principles and tools.

• Experience in the financial services industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of Java, Python, JavaScript, and C# as primary languages, alongside specific tools like Rest Assured, Postman, Selenium, and Playwright, provides clear technical targets for candidates. The "3+ years" experience level, combined with the breadth of required skills, indicates a mid-level role requiring a solid foundation in automation engineering.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrable examples of automated test scripts for both API and UI scenarios.

• Case studies showcasing the development or enhancement of test automation frameworks.

• Documentation of how automated tests were integrated into CI/CD pipelines.

• Examples of test reporting mechanisms and defect tracking processes.

Process Documentation:

• Evidence of designing and documenting test strategies and test plans.

• Examples of workflow optimization through automation implementation.

• Documentation of defect resolution processes and root cause analysis.

• Records of collaboration with development teams on code reviews or testability improvements.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an SDET role, a portfolio is crucial. Candidates should prepare to showcase code samples, framework designs, and concrete examples of how their automation efforts improved efficiency, reduced bugs, and accelerated release cycles. This demonstrates practical application of skills beyond theoretical knowledge.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: For a mid-level SDET Automation Tester with 3+ years of experience in Pune, India, the estimated annual salary range is between ₹8,00,000 to ₹15,00,000. This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for similar roles in major Indian IT hubs, considering the experience level and the demanding nature of financial sector technology roles.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance coverage (medical, dental, vision).

• Retirement savings plans (e.g., Provident Fund).

• Paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and public holidays.

• Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.

• Employee assistance programs for well-being.

• Potential for performance-based bonuses.

• Access to Citi's global network and resources.

Working Hours: The standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week, aligning with full-time employment. While the role is hybrid, specific in-office days will be determined by team needs and management. Flexibility may be available, but core business hours will require availability for team collaboration and critical testing activities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is an estimate for Pune, India, based on current market data for SDETs with 3-5 years of experience in the technology sector, particularly within large multinational corporations. Actual compensation may vary based on specific skills, interview performance, and internal Citi compensation structures.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Financial Services. Citi operates as a global leader in banking and financial services, providing a wide range of financial products and services to consumers, corporations, and governments worldwide. This industry demands high levels of accuracy, security, and reliability in all technological solutions.

Company Size: Citi is a large multinational corporation with tens of thousands of employees globally. This scale implies a structured environment with well-defined processes, extensive resources, and opportunities for diverse career paths.

Founded: 1812. Citi has a long and rich history, indicating stability, a deep understanding of financial markets, and a commitment to innovation that has sustained it through various economic cycles.

Team Structure:

• The SDET will likely be part of an Applications Development or Technology team, potentially within a specific business unit or product line.

• The team structure is expected to be hierarchical, with reporting lines to a QA Lead, Engineering Manager, or Director.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Quality: Emphasis on using metrics and data to inform quality decisions and track improvements.

• Agile Development: Adherence to Agile principles for iterative development, continuous feedback, and rapid adaptation.

• Process Optimization: A continuous drive to refine development and testing processes for greater efficiency and effectiveness.

Company Website: https://www.citigroup.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Working within a financial services giant like Citi means adhering to stringent regulatory compliance, security protocols, and robust quality standards. The culture will likely prioritize stability, risk management, and meticulous execution, alongside the innovative drive required to stay competitive.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is classified as a mid-level SDET Automation Tester. It requires a solid foundation in test automation principles and practical experience in developing and implementing automated solutions. The scope involves contributing to framework design, working on complex features, and potentially mentoring junior team members.

Reporting Structure: The SDET will report to a QA Lead or Engineering Manager within the Applications Development team. They will be part of a larger technology department that supports Citi's diverse financial services operations.

Operations Impact: As an SDET, the individual's impact is critical to ensuring the reliability, performance, and security of financial applications. High-quality software directly influences customer trust, operational efficiency, regulatory compliance, and ultimately, the company's profitability and reputation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in advanced automation techniques, performance testing, security testing, or specific programming languages.

• Leadership Development: Progress to a Senior SDET, QA Lead, or Test Manager role, managing teams and strategic testing initiatives.

• Cross-Functional Mobility: Transition into other areas of software development, DevOps, or project management within Citi.

• Continuous Learning: Access to extensive training programs, certifications, and knowledge-sharing platforms offered by Citi.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an SDET, career progression at a firm like Citi often involves moving towards more complex system integrations, strategic test architecture, or leadership roles. The company's vastness offers numerous avenues for growth, provided the individual demonstrates strong technical acumen, problem-solving skills, and a commitment to quality.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a hybrid role, requiring a mix of on-site presence in the Pune office and remote work. The office environment will likely be professional and corporate, typical of a large financial institution, with modern amenities and collaborative workspaces designed to foster teamwork and innovation.

Office Location(s): The primary office location is in Pune, Maharashtra, India, specifically noted as PLOT NO-1, S.NO. 77. This location serves as a hub for technology and operations teams.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Areas: Dedicated spaces for team meetings, brainstorming sessions, and cross-functional discussions.

• Technology Infrastructure: Access to high-performance workstations, robust network connectivity, and a comprehensive suite of development and testing tools.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular face-to-face interaction with colleagues, fostering a strong team dynamic and knowledge sharing.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is full-time (approximately 40 hours per week). While hybrid, the schedule will need to accommodate core business hours for collaboration, team synchronization, and critical testing activities, especially during release cycles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the role suggests that candidates should be comfortable with a structured work environment that balances individual focus with team collaboration. The Pune office location is a significant IT and financial services hub in India, indicating access to talent and resources.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

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

• Technical Assessment (Online/Coding Challenge): Candidates may be given a coding challenge or asked to complete an online assessment focusing on programming logic, data structures, and automation concepts.

• Technical Interview(s): In-depth interviews with hiring managers and senior engineers. These will cover:

  • Core Programming Skills: Questions on Java/Python/JavaScript/C#, OOP principles, and problem-solving.
  • Automation Expertise: Deep dives into API and UI automation tools, framework design, and best practices. Expect scenario-based questions on how to automate specific tests or troubleshoot automation issues.
  • System Design: Discussions on how to design scalable and maintainable automation frameworks.
  • Agile and CI/CD: Understanding of Agile methodologies and CI/CD integration.

• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session to discuss your portfolio. Be prepared to walk through your projects, explain your design choices, and highlight the impact of your work.

• Final Interview/Cultural Fit: A conversation with senior management to assess alignment with Citi's values and team dynamics.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Code Quality: Ensure your code samples are clean, well-commented, and follow best practices.

• Framework Design: Clearly articulate the architecture of any frameworks you've built, emphasizing reusability, modularity, and scalability.

• Problem-Solving: For each project, detail the challenges you faced and how your automation solutions addressed them.

• Impact Metrics: Quantify the benefits of your work whenever possible (e.g., reduction in manual testing time, increase in test coverage, decrease in critical bugs found post-release).

• API vs. UI: Showcase distinct examples of your proficiency in both API and UI automation.

Challenge Preparation:

• Coding Proficiency: Practice coding algorithms and data structures in your preferred language (Java, Python, etc.).

• Automation Scenarios: Prepare to discuss how you would automate common scenarios for both APIs and UIs. Think about edge cases, error handling, and data management.

• Framework Design Principles: Be ready to explain concepts like Page Object Model (POM) for UI automation, data-driven testing, keyword-driven testing, and robust API validation strategies.

• CI/CD Integration: Understand how tests are triggered, executed, and reported within a CI/CD pipeline.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role at Citi, expect a rigorous interview process that thoroughly vets technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and alignment with corporate culture. A well-prepared portfolio is essential for demonstrating practical application of automation skills.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Programming Languages: Java, Python, JavaScript, C# (proficiency in at least one is required).

• API Automation Tools: Rest Assured, Postman (Newman), Karate DSL, SoapUI.

• UI Automation Tools: Selenium WebDriver, Playwright, Cypress, WebDriverIO.

• Version Control: Git.

Analytics & Reporting:

• CI/CD Platforms: Jenkins, GitLab CI, Azure DevOps, or similar for integrating and running automated tests.

• Reporting Tools: Tools integrated with CI/CD or standalone reporting libraries (e.g., ExtentReports, Allure) for generating test execution summaries and defect reports.

• Defect Tracking: JIRA, Bugzilla, or similar systems for logging and managing defects.

CRM & Automation:

• While not directly a CRM role, understanding how test automation integrates with development workflows and potentially deployment pipelines is key.

• Testing Frameworks: JUnit, TestNG (for Java), Pytest (for Python), Mocha/Jest (for JavaScript).

📝 Enhancement Note: The tech stack is a blend of foundational programming languages and industry-standard automation tools. Candidates should be ready to discuss their experience with these specific tools and articulate how they've used them to solve testing challenges.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all actions and decisions, crucial in the financial sector.

• Client Focus: Dedication to delivering value and excellent service to both internal and external clients.

• Excellence: Striving for the highest standards of quality, performance, and efficiency in all aspects of work.

• Innovation: Embracing new ideas and technologies to drive continuous improvement and stay ahead in a dynamic market.

• Teamwork: Fostering a collaborative environment where diverse perspectives are valued and leveraged.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Active participation in Agile ceremonies (stand-ups, sprint planning, retrospectives) with developers and product teams.

• Proactive Communication: Openly sharing test status, findings, and potential risks with all stakeholders.

• Feedback Culture: Willingness to both provide and receive constructive feedback to enhance processes and product quality.

• Knowledge Sharing: Contributing to a culture of shared learning through documentation, pair programming, or internal presentations.

📝 Enhancement Note: Citi's values emphasize a strong ethical foundation and a commitment to client service, which directly translates into the quality and reliability expected from its technology teams. The SDET role is integral to upholding these values through rigorous testing and a collaborative approach.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complexity of Financial Systems: Navigating the intricate and highly regulated nature of financial applications, which often involve complex business logic and interdependencies.

• Maintaining Large-Scale Automation: Ensuring automation suites remain robust, scalable, and efficient as the application suite grows and evolves.

• Balancing Speed and Quality: Meeting aggressive release timelines while maintaining a high standard of software quality and comprehensive test coverage.

• Adapting to Evolving Technologies: Continuously learning and integrating new automation tools and methodologies to stay competitive.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Automation Training: Access to specialized courses on performance testing, security testing, and emerging automation frameworks.

• Industry Certifications: Support for obtaining relevant certifications in quality assurance and test automation.

• Mentorship Programs: Opportunities to be mentored by experienced engineers or to mentor junior team members, fostering leadership skills.

• Exposure to Diverse Technologies: Working with a wide array of technologies and platforms used across Citi's global operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges inherent in the financial sector require a resilient and adaptable SDET. The growth opportunities are substantial, driven by Citi's commitment to employee development and its position as a global technology leader.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Automation Strategy: "How would you approach designing an automation strategy for a new financial product with both complex APIs and a rich UI?" (Focus on phased approach, tool selection, framework design, and CI/CD integration).

• API Testing Scenarios: "Describe a challenging API you've tested. What were the key test cases, and how did you ensure data integrity and error handling?" (Highlight specific tools and techniques used).

• UI Test Design: "How do you ensure your UI automation scripts are resilient to minor UI changes? Discuss your experience with patterns like the Page Object Model." (Emphasize maintainability and robustness).

• CI/CD Integration: "Explain how you've integrated automated tests into a CI/CD pipeline. What were the benefits and any challenges faced?" (Showcase understanding of DevOps practices).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why Citi? What interests you about working in the financial services industry as an SDET?" (Research Citi's mission, values, and recent tech initiatives).

• "How do you ensure quality in a fast-paced, Agile environment?" (Discuss your approach to balancing speed and thoroughness).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio by project or by skill (API automation, UI automation, framework development).

• Storytelling: For each project, clearly define the problem, your solution (how you used automation), and the quantifiable results or impact.

• Code Walkthrough: Be prepared to share your screen and walk through key sections of your code, explaining your logic and design choices.

• Tool Proficiency: Demonstrate your hands-on experience with the required tools by discussing specific use cases and challenges overcome.

📝 Enhancement Note: Prepare to discuss not just what you did, but why you made certain technical decisions and how your work contributed to business objectives. For Citi, demonstrating an understanding of the financial domain's demands for security, reliability, and compliance will be advantageous.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this SDET Automation Tester position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Citi careers portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and portfolio to highlight your experience with API and UI automation, specific tools (Rest Assured, Selenium, Playwright), and CI/CD integration. Prepare 2-3 strong case studies showcasing your most impactful automation projects.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly lists your proficiency in Java/Python/JavaScript/C#, your years of experience in QA automation, and familiarity with Agile methodologies. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice coding challenges, review common interview questions for SDET roles, and prepare to discuss your portfolio in detail. Be ready to articulate your approach to test strategy and framework design.

• Company Research: Understand Citi's role in financial services, its commitment to technology, and its core values. This will help you tailor your responses to align with the company's objectives and culture.

⚠️ 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.