Manual Tester

Job#: 3022260

Job Description:
Title: Manual QA Tester

Duration: 10 month contract w/ potential to extend

Pay: $40-$50/hr - W2

Location: St. Louis, MO - Hybrid

About the Role

We are seeking a Manual Tester with strong API testing experience to support a large, complex enterprise technology environment. This role plays a key part in validating the quality, reliability, and correctness of APIs and integrated systems. While some automation exposure is beneficial, this position is primarily manual testing-focused, requiring hands-on validation, investigative testing, and close collaboration with cross-functional teams.

Due to the highly collaborative nature of the work, this role requires a local presence in Saint Louis, with on-site work four days per week.

The environment is complex, and ramp-up time is expected to be significant. Full proficiency typically takes six months or more, so the ideal candidate is proactive, self-directed, and comfortable learning in a fast-moving, integrated system landscape.
Key Responsibilities

• Perform manual API testing to validate functionality, data integrity, error handling, and edge cases
• Design and execute API test scenarios using tools such as Postman and SoapUI
• Analyze logs and system behavior using Splunk to support defect investigation and root cause analysis
• Execute basic to intermediate SQL queries to validate backend data and test results
• Collaborate closely with developers and QA peers to clarify requirements and expected behavior
• Log, track, and manage defects using tools such as Jira and Octane
• Support build and deployment validation activities, with exposure to CI/CD pipelines (e.g., Jenkins)
• Participate in defect triage, team discussions, and continuous improvement efforts
• Proactively learn system workflows, integrations, and dependencies

Required Skills & Experience (Must Have)

• Strong manual testing experience, with a clear focus on API testing
• Hands-on experience using Postman (or similar API testing tools)
• Working knowledge of Splunk for log analysis and troubleshooting
• Basic to intermediate SQL skills for data validation
• Experience using Jira (or similar tools) for defect tracking
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Self-starter mindset with the ability to learn quickly in a complex environment
• Ability to work on-site in Saint Louis four days per week

Preferred / Nice-to-Have Skills

• Experience with SoapUI
• Familiarity with Octane
• Exposure to GitLab or similar source control tools
• Basic understanding of Jenkins and CI/CD workflows
• Some exposure to test automation concepts or tools (not required)
• Experience working in large, integrated enterprise environments

What Success Looks Like

• Rapid understanding of API workflows and system integrations
• Clear, concise defect reporting and effective collaboration with development teams
• Demonstrated ownership and initiative without constant direction
• Strong working relationships with QA and engineering stakeholders
• Tangible contributions to improved test coverage and system quality over time

Not a Fit If You...

• Are seeking a fully remote role
• Prefer exclusively automation or UI-only testing
• Require highly prescriptive, step-by-step instructions at all times
• Are uncomfortable working in complex systems with longer ramp-up periods
• Are unable to commit to consistent on-site work in Saint Louis

Apex Systems is a world-class IT services company that serves thousands of clients across the globe. When you join Apex, you become part of a team that values innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning. We offer quality career resources, training, certifications, development opportunities, and a comprehensive benefits package. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in many awards, including ClearlyRated's Best of Staffing in Talent Satisfaction in the United States and Great Place to Work in the United Kingdom and Mexico. Apex uses a virtual recruiter as part of the application process. Click for more details.

Apex Benefits Overview: Apex offers a range of supplemental benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and other insurance plans that offer an optional layer of financial protection. We offer an ESPP (employee stock purchase program) and a 401K program which allows you to contribute typically within 30 days of starting, with a company match after 12 months of tenure. Apex also offers a HSA (Health Savings Account on the HDHP plan), a SupportLinc Employee Assistance Program (EAP) with up to 8 free counseling sessions, a corporate discount savings program and other discounts. In terms of professional development, Apex hosts an on-demand training program, provides access to certification prep and a library of technical and leadership courses/books/seminars once you have 6+ months of tenure, and certification discounts and other perks to associations that include CompTIA and IIBA. Apex has a dedicated customer service team for our Consultants that can address questions around benefits and other resources, as well as a certified Career Coach. You can access a full list of our benefits, programs, support teams and resources within our 'Welcome Packet' as well, which an Apex team member can provide.