Assistant Director, Engineering Test Strategy and Operations

Summary

Are you someone who is passionate about quality? Are you a motivated people leader? This role will play a crucial part in shaping and growing quality-related practices across the enterprise. As an Assistant Director of Test Engineering, you will be responsible for leading a team of talented Lead Test Engineers focused on driving the highest standards of software quality, while simultaneously working with partners across the organization to improve our testing practices, processes, and frameworks. In addition, you will work closely with engineering teams to drive continuous improvement and ensure outcomes are delivered with the highest quality standards.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

• Team Leadership: Lead, mentor, and develop a team of Test Lead professionals, fostering a culture of quality, excellence, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Testing Practices: Ensure robust testing practices are followed, and high-quality software is delivered, meeting both functional and non-functional requirements.
• Collaboration: Work closely with development, product management, and other cross-functional teams to integrate quality practices into the software development lifecycle.
• Process Improvement: Identify opportunities for process improvements, refine existing testing procedures, and implement best practices to enhance overall product quality.
• Performance Metrics: Establish, monitor, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) to track the effectiveness of quality assurance activities.
• Training & Development: Provide training and support to team members and stakeholders on quality-related processes, tools, and best practices.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a quality assurance role, with at least 3 years in a leadership or management role.
• Strong understanding of software testing methodologies, tools (such as Playwright, JIRA Xray, or similar), and best practices.
• Experience with automated testing is required.
• Experience with program management and Scaled Agile is required.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex concepts clearly and effectively.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders.
• Ability to cultivate strong partnership across the organization and influence without authority
• ISTQB or similar QA certifications are a plus.

#LI-Hybrid

Compensation Range:

Pay Range - Start:

$123,480.00

Pay Range - End:
$229,320.00

Geographic Specific Pay Structure:

220 - Structure 110: 135,800.00 USD - 252,200.00 USD220 - Structure 115: 142,030.00 USD - 263,770.00 USD

We believe in fairness and transparency. It's why we share the salary range for most of our roles. However, final salaries are based on a number of factors, including the skills and experience of the candidate; the current market; location of the candidate; and other factors uncovered in the hiring process. The standard pay structure is listed but if you're living in California, New York City or other eligible location, geographic specific pay structures, compensation and benefits could be applicable, click here to learn more.

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Northwestern Mutual is an equal opportunity employer who welcomes and encourages diversity in the workforce. We are committed to creating and maintaining an environment in which each employee can contribute creative ideas, seek challenges, assume leadership and continue to focus on meeting and exceeding business and personal objectives.