Test Automation Engineer (Technical/R&D Department)
As a Test Automation Engineer, you’ll play a key role in designing, developing, and maintaining automated test solutions that help us efficiently deliver high-quality, safety-critical products. You’ll work closely with firmware, software, and cloud developers to ensure our systems are thoroughly validated across all layers — from embedded firmware to user interfaces and APIs.
- Closing Date:TBC
- Job Location:Nelson, Head Office
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Contract Type
Full time -
Salary
Dependent on previous experience -
Hours
40 hours per week
Typical Responsibilities
- Design, implement, and maintain automated test frameworks and scripts.
- Develop and execute test cases covering functional, regression, and system-level testing.
- Integrate automated tests into CI/CD pipelines (Azure DevOps).
- Analyse test results, identify defects, and support root-cause investigations.
- Collaborate across R&D teams to improve software quality and test coverage.
- Contribute to test strategy discussions, documentation, and continuous improvement.
- Assist in building and maintaining test environments, virtual devices, and simulators.
Person Specification
Candidates shall be able to demonstrate the necessary qualifications, experience, skills, and traits to meet the requirements set below. Requirements for the role shall be evidenced on the application form and in the interview process. Please use the following as guidance when completing the further information section of your application form.
| Qualifications | Essential / Desirable | To be identified by |
|---|---|---|
| Degree level or equivalent in a relevant engineering discipline (e.g. electronics, software) . | Desirable | Application |
| Experience | Essential / Desirable | To be identified by |
|---|---|---|
| Hands-on experience developing and maintaining automated test scripts and frameworks (Python, C#, or JavaScript preferred). | Essential | Interview / Application |
| Strong understanding of software testing principles including functional, regression, integration, and system testing. | Essential | Interview / Application |
| Practical experience connecting test automation frameworks to physical hardware, such as I/O modules, relays, or simulated field devices. | Essential | Interview / Application |
| Familiarity with serial communications protocols (RS-232, RS-485, Modbus, CAN, TCP/IP). | Essential | Interview / Application |
| Experience building test systems that combine hardware inputs/outputs with automated verification of software behaviour. | Essential | Interview / Application |
| Experience using version control systems (Git) and collaborative development workflows. | Essential | Interview / Application |
| Working knowledge of API testing, scripting, and continuous integration tools (Azure DevOps, GitHub Actions, or Jenkins). | Essential | Interview / Application |
| Strong problem-solving ability with a methodical and analytical approach. | Essential | Interview / Application |
| Experience with National Instruments LabVIEW, TestStand, or similar test automation environments. | Desirable | Interview / Application |
| Understanding of signal conditioning, measurement accuracy, and calibration principles. | Desirable | Interview / Application |
| Knowledge of electronic circuits and the ability to interpret wiring diagrams or system schematics. | Desirable | Interview / Application |
| Experience integrating sensors, relays, actuators, or PLCs within automated test systems. | Desirable | Interview / Application |
| Exposure to embedded firmware testing or real-time operating systems (RTOS). | Desirable | Interview / Application |
| Familiarity with Docker or virtual test environments for scalable automation. | Desirable | Interview / Application |
| Skills / Abilities | Essential / Desirable | To be identified by |
|---|---|---|
| Excellent oral and written communication skills. | Essential | Interview / Application |
| Competent using Microsoft Office packages including Word, Excel, Outlook and Teams. | Essential | Interview / Application |
| The ability to manage and maintain accurate records, detailed within technical documents. | Essential | Interview |
| Ability to communicate effectively with staff at varying levels throughout a company. | Essential | Interview |
| Good interpersonal skills and the ability to work as part of a team and under own initiative. | Essential | Interview |
| Comfortable chairing discussions and capturing actionable minutes within an engineering team. | Essential | Interview |
| Understanding of regulation standards and legal obligations relating to product development. | Essential | Interview |
| Other | Essential / Desirable | To be identified by |
|---|---|---|
| Commitment to confidentiality and data protection. | Essential | Interview |
| Enthusiasm, innovation, and willingness to learn. | Essential | Interview / Application |
| Task ownership, and drive to hit deadlines. | Essential | Interview / Application |
Apply Now
Email your CV, job application form and any relevant further information to recruitment@protec.co.uk
Accreditations
