Senior Software Test Automation Engineer

Title                    Senior Software Test Automation Engineer 

Department       R&D 

Location             Niwot, CO (Hybrid) 

Reports To         Software Test Manager 

About Us  

Established in 1972, Particle Measuring Systems is a global leader for micro-contamination monitoring equipment improving the performance of clean manufactures in the semiconductor and pharmaceutical industries.  We’re a growing technology company in Niwot, Colorado, the heart of the Rocky Mountains.  We offer an exceptional and rewarding work environment in a great place to live.  Our employees enjoy challenging projects in the development and manufacture of light scattering particle counters and diverse technologies and applications. 

Your Impact  

We are looking for a Senior Software Test Automation Engineer who will contribute to the success of the R&D Team, applying their expertise in test automation and systems-level testing to support the achievement of team and company goals and deliver innovative, reliable solutions.  In this role, the successful candidate will collaborate effectively with colleagues and cross-functional teams, demonstrate strong problem-solving and decision-making skills, and maintain a commitment to professional excellence, quality and continuous improvement. 

The Role  

As a Senior Software Test Automation Engineer, you will be a key contributor to a team of highly skilled engineers, leading testing efforts for complex application software and embedded firmware across the product lifecycle. You will design and execute advanced test strategies for large features and systems, develop and maintain robust automation frameworks, and collaborate closely with developers and systems engineers to ensure comprehensive test coverage. This role involves tackling challenging technical problems, driving defect resolution, and enhancing test automation to support efficient, high-quality software delivery. 

Job Responsibilities 

• Lead and execute complex testing efforts across the software development lifecycle for application software and embedded systems, ensuring high-quality releases.

• Design, develop, and enhance advanced test automation frameworks that are scalable, maintainable, and aligned with evolving product needs (e.g., Java, Python).

• Plan and lead testing activities for large or complex features/projects, including test scope definition, risk identification, and execution coordination.

• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams (software engineering, systems, product) to review requirements, refine use cases, and ensure robust test coverage and traceability.

• Develop and execute comprehensive test suites (functional, integration, system, and performance), both manual and automated, for complex workflows and edge cases.

• Troubleshoot and analyze complex defects, perform root cause analysis, and partner with developers to validate fixes and drive resolution.

• Integrate and maintain automated tests within CI/CD pipelines, improving reliability, execution speed, and feedback cycles.

• Contribute to and uphold best practices in test automation, coding standards, and QA processes through code reviews and team collaboration.

• Mentor and support less experienced engineers, providing guidance on tools, frameworks, and effective testing approaches.

• Evaluate and recommend improvements to tools, frameworks, and processes to enhance test efficiency and effectiveness.

• Create and maintain clear, detailed test documentation, ensuring transparency and knowledge sharing across teams.

• Participate actively in Agile events, contributing technical insight on testing considerations, risks, and dependencies. 

• Continuously evaluate processes for improvements in efficiency, quality, and safety. 

• This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive.  Responsibilities may evolve over time, and other related duties may be assigned to meet the ongoing needs of the company. 

Required Qualifications 

• A BS degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or equivalent.

• At least 10 years’ experience as an Automation Software Test Engineer developing and executing automation software/firmware test scripts, testing and tracking defects.

• 3 years of professional experience may be substituted for MS degree in a relevant field.

• Strong technical foundation in software development and test principles.

• Experience with software test tools and processes, including automation testing and defect tracking.

• Expertise on test-driven development, developing different levels of automated tests, such as functional test, integration test, system test, or performance test.

• Experience developing and maintaining automated tests using Ranorex (strongly preferred).

• Working experience with programming languages such as Java or Python.

• Familiarity with IntelliJ IDEA or other integrated development environments (IDEs).

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with strong attention to detail.

• Clear oral and written communication skills, especially technical writing.

• Self-starter and capable of working effectively with minimal supervision.

Preferred Qualifications 

• Experience working within an Agile Development Environment is preferred.

• Knowledge of Jira/Confluence is preferred.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements 

• This role primarily operates in an office/lab/manufacturing environment. 

• Must be able to sit, stand, and use a computer for extended periods of time. 

• This is a hybrid position, “in-office” minimum 3 days per week. 

• Occasional lifting of up to 20 lbs. may be required. 

• Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this role. 

Compensation & Benefits 

• Competitive base salary range: $100,000 - $140,000 depending on experience 

  • Our compensation philosophy: we offer competitive pay based on market data, including local, national, and industry benchmarks.  For new hires, offers are generally within the established min- to mid-point of the range for the role, with flexibility to recognize experience, skills, and education.  Our approach ensures fair pay internally while remaining competitive externally and allows room for growth.  

• Comprehensive benefits package: 

  • Health coverage: medical, dental, vision, fsa, onsite clinic (CO employees), life insurance 

  • 401(k) retirement plan with company match 

  • Vacation, holiday, and leave policies 

  • Tuition reimbursement, Employee recognition programs, Employee assistance programs 

Particle Measuring Systems is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and are committed to building an inclusive and supportive workplace where everyone can thrive

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