Lead Software QA Engineer - Robotics & Automation

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The Opportunity

StaffRight Associates is currently managing a search for a forward-thinking client seeking a Lead Software QA Engineer to spearhead pre-release testing operations within their laboratory automation software division. In this newly created position, you will shape the future of robotics and diagnostic equipment testing, ensuring that software builds undergo rigorous validation on production-emulation hardware before final handoff. This high-impact role blends software engineering expertise with hands-on physical equipment operation, offering an exceptional opportunity to establish testing frameworks from the ground up and drive product excellence in a cutting-edge environment.

What You'll Do

• Execute pre-release test plans for candidate software builds prior to independent quality assurance handoff

• Engineer custom scripts and utilities to facilitate comprehensive functional, regression, and integration testing cycles

• Analyze unit test coverage across software components, bridging gaps in critical areas and authoring new unit tests where necessary

• Establish and monitor unit test coverage metrics to build a robust pre-release checklist

• Conduct thorough cybersecurity scans across the software suite utilizing static and dynamic code analysis along with dependency vulnerability checking

• Validate cybersecurity processes during pre-release evaluation, ensuring secure deployment practices, proper credential management, and locked-down network exposure

• Assess the security posture of third-party hardware integrations including machine vision units, barcode systems, and motor controllers

• Document and track defects systematically while partnering directly with developers to troubleshoot and resolve issues

• Operate physical laboratory automation hardware on production-equivalent test setups

• Manage equipment startup and shutdown procedures while diagnosing initial hardware and software startup challenges

• Execute representative production workflows to validate software performance under real-world operating conditions

• Isolate and troubleshoot integration challenges spanning robotics, machine vision, pneumatic controls, and serial communication devices

• Coordinate closely with hardware and controls engineering teams to determine root causes for complex system behaviors

• Architect repeatable, well-documented testing standards and workflows where none currently exist

• Define clear handoff criteria and documentation protocols for downstream quality assurance groups

• Recommend and deploy testing frameworks tailored specifically for robotics and automated systems

• Deliver critical release-readiness insights directly to the head of software development

What You Bring

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical discipline (or equivalent practical experience)

• Three to five years of professional Software Engineering or Software Test Engineering experience

• Strong programming and scripting capabilities using languages such as Java, C-Family Languages, or Python for test tool development

• Proven experience writing, reviewing, and maintaining unit tests across a full Software Development Life Cycle, leveraging AI Tools to assist with coverage

• Demonstrated track record utilizing AI Tools for cybersecurity scanning, static and dynamic code analysis, and dependency vulnerability assessments

• Hands-on experience working directly with physical hardware and electromechanical equipment

• Advanced troubleshooting expertise spanning both software logic and mechanical systems

• Comfort operating autonomously within an evolving role to build structure, processes, and documentation from scratch

• Experience managing software deployment and release processes for embedded or equipment-controlled architectures

• Background working within a regulated industry such as FDA or ISO 13485 compliance frameworks

• Familiarity with test automation frameworks and defect tracking systems like Jira or Azure DevOps

• Exposure to programming principles for robotic systems, machine vision, barcode readers, pneumatic actuators, Variable Frequency Drives, and serial communication protocols

• Prior experience within laboratory automation, medical device, industrial automation, or regulated manufacturing environments

Compensation & Total Rewards

$90,000 to $120,000 and benefits package tailored to experience.

Joining StaffRight Associates

When you partner with StaffRight Associates in your search for your next role, you're doing more than pursuing a job, you're aligning yourself with a team of experts committed to placing top-tier talent in truly impactful positions. We take pride in fostering professional growth and connecting forward-thinking individuals with organizations that value innovation and excellence. We look forward to showcasing your expertise in a way that resonates with our clients and opens the door to meaningful opportunities.