Principal SDET (Software Development Engineer in Test) - #1697948

Principal SDET (Software Development Engineer in Test)

Location: Belfast (Hybrid)

Are you a senior test automation expert ready to shape the future of quality engineering at a global scale? Join our client’s fast-growing engineering hub in Belfast, where innovation meets impact.

Our client is seeking a Principal SDET to lead the design, development, and implementation of world-class test automation frameworks and strategies. You will act as a technical authority, collaborating with cross-functional teams and leading an offshore SDET team, driving quality across a modern, cloud-based stack.

What You’ll Do:

• Architect and implement scalable, maintainable, and efficient test automation solutions using Java, Python, Playwright, and AWS.


• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to a high-performing offshore SDET team, ensuring best practices and engineering excellence.


• Collaborate closely with product owners, developers, and DevOps to integrate testing into every stage of the development lifecycle.


• Drive test strategy, including performance, integration, and end-to-end automation.


• Champion quality engineering principles and advocate for testability, CI/CD, and observability in our platform.

What You’ll Bring:

• Extensive experience as a senior or principal-level SDET, QA architect, or similar role.


• Deep expertise in test automation frameworks (preferably Playwright) and programming in Java and Python.


• Strong background in testing cloud-native applications on AWS.


• Proven experience leading offshore or distributed QA teams in a global engineering environment.


• A passion for clean code, DevOps, and continuous improvement.

Why Join?

• Be part of a global tech leader with a growing presence in Belfast.


• Lead meaningful work on mission-critical systems used by millions.


• Competitive salary, excellent bonus and pension, healthcare, dental care, flexible working, and continuous learning opportunities.


• A collaborative culture that values innovation, autonomy, and growth.