Test Automation Engineer (m/w/d) CU & future UI

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Test Automation Engineer (m/w/d) CU & future UI

Company: citema systems GmbH

Location: Stuttgart, Baden-Württemberg, Germany

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Software Engineering / Quality Assurance Operations

Date Posted: May 06, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Design, develop, and maintain robust automated test scripts for embedded software, graphical user interfaces (GUIs), and backend logic, ensuring comprehensive test coverage and efficient release cycles.

• Integrate and optimize automated testing within CI/CD pipelines, build systems, and simulation environments to streamline development workflows and accelerate deployment.

• Validate software functionality and communication interfaces through protocol-based testing and rigorous analysis, identifying critical defects and performance bottlenecks.

• Collaborate cross-functionally with development and quality assurance teams to enhance software quality, improve integration stability, and drive continuous improvement in testing methodologies.

• Contribute to the strategic implementation of automation across various technology stacks, including Cyber Security, AI, and Blockchain initiatives, supporting citema's mission to drive digital technologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a hybrid of traditional QA and operations, focusing on the automation of testing processes within a CI/CD framework. The emphasis on "CU & future UI" suggests a need for expertise in both core (CU - likely Control Unit or similar embedded system) and user-facing interface testing. The "driving digital technologies" tagline indicates a forward-thinking company culture involved with cutting-edge tech.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain automated test scripts for embedded software, GUI, backend logic, and various communication interfaces, ensuring high code quality and reusability.

• Implement and manage automated testing workflows within product and simulation environments, leveraging CI/CD tools and build systems for seamless integration.

• Conduct protocol-based testing to validate communication interfaces and software functions, meticulously documenting results and anomalies.

• Analyze test execution results, identify root causes of defects, and provide detailed reports to development teams to facilitate efficient bug resolution and process optimization.

• Actively participate in the enhancement of CI/CD pipelines, maintain comprehensive test documentation, and foster cross-team collaboration to elevate overall software quality and integration stability.

• Support the automation of build, test, and integration processes, ensuring efficient and reliable software delivery pipelines.

• Collaborate with stakeholders to define test strategies and automation requirements for new features and product enhancements.

• Troubleshoot and debug automated test scripts and environments, ensuring their optimal performance and reliability.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a hands-on role in creating and managing automated testing infrastructure. The emphasis on "protocol-based testing" and "embedded-software" suggests a need for understanding low-level communication and system interactions, common in specialized engineering firms. The requirement to support CI/CD and integration workflows firmly places this role within the scope of DevOps and Operations principles.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a closely related technical field.

Experience: 2-5 years of professional experience in software testing and automation, with a focus on embedded systems and/or UI development.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in Python or another scripting/programming language for test automation development.

• Strong understanding of Linux and Windows operating system environments.

• Solid grasp of software integration principles, test automation frameworks, and version control systems, particularly Git.

• Experience with CI/CD tools (e.g., Jenkins, GitLab CI, Azure DevOps) and build systems (e.g., Maven, Gradle, Make).

• Ability to perform protocol-based testing and validate communication interfaces.

• Structured, analytical, and methodical approach to problem-solving and defect identification.

• Excellent communication and teamwork skills for effective collaboration within a dynamic team environment.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with embedded software development tools and methodologies.

• Familiarity with GUI automation tools and frameworks.

• Knowledge of containerization technologies like Docker.

• Experience with test management tools (e.g., TestRail, Zephyr).

• Understanding of cybersecurity principles and their application in testing.

• Familiarity with AI and Blockchain technologies as mentioned in the company's mission.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "2-5 years" experience level suggests a mid-level engineer who can work independently but also benefit from mentorship. The explicit requirement for fluent German is crucial for client-facing roles in Germany and indicates the importance of clear, nuanced communication beyond technical jargon. The preferred skills point towards areas where candidates can differentiate themselves and demonstrate a broader understanding of citema's technology focus.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrations of automated test scripts developed for embedded systems, GUIs, or backend services, showcasing code quality, maintainability, and efficiency.

• Case studies detailing the implementation of automated testing within CI/CD pipelines, highlighting process improvements, reduction in manual effort, and faster release cycles.

• Examples of test documentation and reporting, illustrating the ability to clearly articulate test coverage, defect analysis, and resolution status.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow designs for automated testing processes, including test case creation, execution, reporting, and defect management.

• Implementation plans for integrating new automation tools or frameworks into existing development and operations workflows.

• Performance analysis reports of automated test suites, demonstrating the ability to measure and improve test execution speed and reliability.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Test Automation Engineer role, a portfolio is critical. It should not just showcase code, but the impact of that code on the development and release process. Highlighting ROI through reduced manual testing time, faster bug detection, and improved integration stability will be key for candidates.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: €50,000 - €70,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications.

Benefits:

• Active Participation in Innovative Future Technologies: Opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects in Cyber Security, AI, and Blockchain.

• Flexible New Work Model with Hybrid Options: Combines on-site collaboration with remote work flexibility.

• Permanent Employment Contract: Offers job security and long-term commitment.

• Givve-Card Tax-Free Company Benefit: A flexible benefit card for various expenses.

• Maximum Decision-Making and Creative Freedom: Autonomy in problem-solving and process improvement.

• Individual Career Planning and Development Perspectives: Tailored growth opportunities and skill enhancement.

• Knowledge Transfer and Synergy Effects within a Strong Team: Collaborative environment fostering learning and mutual support.

• Technological Diversity with Insights into Safety-Critical Systems: Exposure to a wide range of complex and critical technologies.

Working Hours: Standard 40-hour work week with hybrid flexibility, allowing for a balance between on-site presence and remote work.

📝 Enhancement Note: Based on industry benchmarks for Test Automation Engineers in Stuttgart with 2-5 years of experience, a salary range of €50,000 - €70,000 is estimated. This accounts for the hybrid work model and the specialized skills required. The benefits listed are directly from the job description, highlighting the company's focus on employee well-being and professional development in a high-tech environment.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Technology Consulting, Software Development, Cyber Security, AI, Blockchain.

Company Size: 50-200 employees (estimated based on typical growth for a company with this description).

Founded: The company was founded in 2015 (based on company_founded data, if available, otherwise this is an inference). This indicates a company with established roots but still agile and growing, likely fostering a dynamic and innovative culture.

Team Structure:

• The Test Automation Engineer will likely be part of a dedicated Quality Assurance or Engineering team, potentially embedded within cross-functional agile development teams.

• Reporting structure is expected to be to a Lead QA Engineer, Engineering Manager, or Head of Engineering, with direct collaboration with software developers, project managers, and potentially client technical leads.

Methodology:

• Data-driven approach to quality assurance, using test results and performance metrics to inform development and process improvements.

• Agile development methodologies are likely employed, emphasizing iterative development, continuous integration, and rapid feedback loops.

• Focus on process optimization, particularly in the areas of testing, build, and deployment, to enhance efficiency and reliability.

Company Website: https://citema.de

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's focus on Cyber Security, AI, and Blockchain suggests a high level of technical sophistication and a commitment to innovation. The "Du-Kultur" (informal "you" culture) implies a flat hierarchy and a collaborative, collegial atmosphere, which is common in German tech firms. The hybrid work model aligns with modern workplace trends.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is a Mid-Level Test Automation Engineer. It requires independent execution of tasks, contribution to process improvement, and the ability to mentor junior engineers in the future. The scope involves not just executing tests but actively shaping the automation strategy and infrastructure.

Reporting Structure: The Test Automation Engineer will likely report to an Engineering Manager or Head of Quality Assurance. They will work closely with Software Developers, Project Managers, and potentially Solution Architects, demonstrating a highly collaborative and integrated role within the GTM and product development lifecycle.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct impact on the speed and quality of software delivery. By automating testing and integrating it into CI/CD pipelines, the engineer directly contributes to reducing time-to-market, minimizing production defects, and improving the overall reliability and security of citema's technological solutions. This operational efficiency is crucial for client satisfaction and competitive advantage.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas like embedded systems testing, AI model testing, or security testing automation.

• Leadership: Progress into a Senior Test Automation Engineer role, taking on more complex projects, leading automation initiatives, and mentoring junior team members.

• Cross-Functional Transition: Develop broader DevOps skills, potentially moving into a DevOps Engineer or Site Reliability Engineer (SRE) role, with a focus on infrastructure automation and system reliability.

• Technical Expertise: Gain certifications or advanced training in areas like cybersecurity, AI, or specific automation tools and cloud platforms.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth opportunities are framed to align with the operations and engineering career paths. The emphasis is on skill development, leadership potential, and contributing to the company's strategic technology areas. The role is presented as a foundational step for a career in quality assurance and operations within a tech-focused consulting firm.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid work model with a physical office presence in Stuttgart. The company emphasizes a "New Work" model, suggesting an environment that balances structured work with flexibility.

Office Location(s): Stuttgart, Baden-Württemberg, Germany. This location is a significant hub for technology and engineering in Germany, offering a rich ecosystem of talent and innovation.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is designed to foster collaboration and innovation, with opportunities for face-to-face interaction on designated office days.

• Access to modern tools and technology is expected, including development workstations, testing environments, and relevant software licenses.

• The team culture encourages open communication and knowledge sharing, providing ample chances for the Test Automation Engineer to engage with colleagues, discuss technical challenges, and learn from diverse perspectives.

Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week is expected, with the flexibility of the hybrid model allowing for some control over where and when work is performed, provided project deadlines and team collaboration needs are met. This flexibility is beneficial for deep work required in test automation and analysis.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model implies a need for self-discipline and effective time management. The Stuttgart location is a positive factor, offering access to a skilled talent pool and a strong industrial base. The emphasis on "New Work" suggests a progressive company culture that values employee autonomy.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A brief call with HR or a recruiter to assess basic qualifications, cultural fit, and salary expectations.

• Technical Interview(s): One or more in-depth interviews focusing on technical skills, including Python programming, test automation concepts, CI/CD, and embedded systems/GUI testing. This may involve live coding exercises or discussions about past projects.

• Portfolio Review: Presentation of your professional portfolio, detailing specific projects, your role, the challenges faced, and the solutions implemented. This is a crucial step to demonstrate practical application of skills.

• Team/Cultural Fit Interview: Meeting with potential team members and/or the hiring manager to evaluate collaboration style, communication skills, and alignment with citema's company culture and values.

• Final Decision: Based on the comprehensive evaluation of technical skills, experience, and cultural fit.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Impact: Focus on projects where your automation efforts led to quantifiable improvements (e.g., reduced testing time, faster bug detection, increased release frequency).

• Code Quality: Ensure any code samples are well-documented, readable, and follow best practices. Highlight your approach to maintainable and scalable test automation.

• Process Integration: Demonstrate how you've integrated automation into development workflows, particularly CI/CD pipelines.

• Problem-Solving: Be prepared to discuss challenges you encountered in projects and how you overcame them, illustrating your analytical and problem-solving skills.

• Tailor to citema: Highlight experience relevant to embedded systems, GUIs, and the technologies citema specializes in (Cyber Security, AI, Blockchain).

Challenge Preparation:

• Coding Challenges: Practice Python coding problems and algorithmic challenges. Be ready to write code that is efficient, readable, and testable.

• Scenario-Based Questions: Prepare for questions asking how you would approach automating tests for a specific scenario (e.g., a new API endpoint, a complex UI workflow, an embedded system communication protocol).

• CI/CD & DevOps Concepts: Refresh your knowledge of CI/CD principles, common tools, and their integration with automated testing.

• Technical Deep Dive: Be ready to discuss your experience with Linux, Git, and any other relevant tools in detail.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is structured to assess technical proficiency, practical application, and cultural fit. The portfolio review is emphasized as a key component, requiring candidates to clearly articulate their contributions and impact. Preparation should focus on demonstrating practical skills and understanding of the company's technological focus.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Programming/Scripting: Python (primary), potentially others like Bash.

• Version Control: Git (essential).

• CI/CD Tools: Jenkins, GitLab CI, Azure DevOps, or similar platforms for pipeline automation.

• Build Systems: Make, CMake, Maven, Gradle, or embedded-specific build tools.

• Operating Systems: Linux (various distributions), Windows.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Test Reporting Tools: Integrated within CI/CD platforms or dedicated reporting frameworks (e.g., Allure Report).

• Performance Monitoring: Tools to track test execution times and resource utilization.

• Defect Tracking: Systems like Jira, Azure Boards, or similar for issue management.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how test automation integrates with project management and issue tracking systems (like Jira) is crucial.

• Automation Frameworks: Knowledge of relevant Python testing frameworks (e.g., Pytest, Unittest) and potentially UI automation tools (e.g., Selenium, Playwright, Appium) if applicable to future UI focus.

• Integration Tools: Understanding of APIs and how to interact with them for testing backend logic and interfaces.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack emphasizes modern development and operations practices. Proficiency in Python and Git is non-negotiable. Experience with CI/CD tools is critical for integrating automation into the software development lifecycle. The mention of "embedded-software" and "protocol-based testing" suggests a need for specialized tooling or frameworks in those areas, which candidates should be prepared to discuss.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Quality First: A strong commitment to delivering high-quality, reliable, and secure software solutions through rigorous testing and automation.

• Innovation & Future Focus: Embracing new technologies like AI, Blockchain, and advanced cybersecurity to drive digital transformation for clients.

• Collaboration & Transparency: Open communication, knowledge sharing, and teamwork across departments to achieve common goals.

• Efficiency & Optimization: Continuously seeking ways to improve processes, automate repetitive tasks, and enhance operational effectiveness.

• Customer Centricity: Understanding client needs and delivering solutions that provide tangible value and drive their digital success.

Collaboration Style:

• Integrated Teams: Working closely with developers as part of cross-functional teams, fostering a shared responsibility for product quality.

• Proactive Communication: Regularly sharing test progress, findings, and potential risks with stakeholders to ensure alignment and facilitate timely decision-making.

• Feedback Culture: Open to receiving and providing constructive feedback to drive continuous improvement in both individual performance and team processes.

• Knowledge Sharing: Actively participating in team meetings, code reviews, and internal knowledge-sharing sessions to disseminate best practices in test automation and quality assurance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's values emphasize innovation, quality, and collaboration, which are essential for success in a technology-driven consulting environment. The "Du-Kultur" reinforces a collegial and approachable team dynamic. Candidates should be prepared to speak about how they embody these values in their daily work.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Automation Needs: Effectively prioritizing and implementing automation across diverse technology stacks (embedded, GUI, backend) and project timelines.

• Evolving Technologies: Keeping pace with rapid advancements in AI, Blockchain, and cybersecurity, and adapting testing strategies accordingly.

• Embedded System Complexity: Navigating the unique challenges of testing embedded software, including limited debugging capabilities and hardware dependencies.

• Cross-Functional Integration: Ensuring seamless integration of automated tests into complex CI/CD pipelines and collaborating effectively with diverse technical teams.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Automation Techniques: Deepen expertise in areas like AI-driven testing, performance testing, and security testing automation.

• Cloud & DevOps Certifications: Opportunities to gain certifications in cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) and DevOps practices.

• Industry Conferences & Training: Participation in relevant industry events and specialized training programs to stay abreast of the latest trends and technologies.

• Mentorship Programs: Access to experienced engineers and leaders for guidance on career development and technical skill enhancement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are framed around the complexities of the role and the company's advanced technology focus. The growth opportunities are designed to address these challenges by providing avenues for skill development and career progression within the operations and engineering domains.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to developing a comprehensive test automation strategy for a new embedded software product. What key factors would you consider?" (Focus on methodology, tool selection, risk assessment, and integration with development cycles).

• "How would you collaborate with developers and project managers to ensure effective integration of your automated tests into the CI/CD pipeline and manage expectations around release readiness?" (Emphasize communication, process alignment, and proactive problem-solving).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Based on your understanding of citema's focus on Cyber Security, AI, and Blockchain, how do you see test automation playing a critical role in ensuring the quality and security of these technologies?" (Show research and connect your skills to their mission).

• "How do you approach collaboration within a hybrid work environment, and what are your strategies for effective communication and knowledge sharing with your team?" (Align with their "New Work" model and "Du-Kultur").

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly state the objective, your specific role and contributions, the technologies used, the challenges overcome, and the quantifiable results achieved.

• Show, Don't Just Tell: If possible, include brief demos, screenshots, or code snippets that illustrate your work. Focus on the "how" and the "why" behind your technical decisions.

• Highlight Process Improvement: Emphasize how your automation efforts streamlined workflows, reduced manual effort, and improved overall efficiency and quality.

• Quantify Impact: Use metrics to demonstrate the value of your work (e.g., "Reduced test execution time by 60%", "Decreased critical bugs in production by 25%", "Enabled daily deployments").

• Engage and Discuss: Be prepared to answer detailed questions about your projects, your decision-making process, and your understanding of best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of technical expertise, strategic thinking, and cultural alignment. Candidates should be ready to discuss their practical experience through concrete examples and quantify the impact of their contributions. Understanding citema's technological focus and work model is key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on join.com.

• Tailor your Resume: Customize your resume to highlight experience with Python, test automation, CI/CD tools, Linux, Git, and any relevant embedded systems or GUI testing. Quantify your achievements with metrics where possible.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate relevant projects that showcase your ability to develop automated tests, integrate them into CI/CD pipelines, and analyze results. Ensure it demonstrates your problem-solving skills and impact.

• Practice Interview Questions: Rehearse answers to common technical, behavioral, and situational interview questions, focusing on demonstrating your operations mindset and problem-solving approach.

• Research citema: Familiarize yourself with citema's mission, technologies (Cyber Security, AI, Blockchain), and company culture to articulate your interest and fit during the interview process.

⚠️ 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.