Automation Test Lead – Mainframe & API Testing

Location: Holmdel, NJ • Contract

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Automation Test Lead with strong expertise in API Testing, Mainframe Testing, Selenium, and SDET methodologies. The ideal candidate will lead end-to-end testing efforts for large-scale transformation initiatives, ensuring quality, traceability, and successful delivery across multiple applications and integrated systems. This role requires hands-on experience in API/Web Services testing, automation frameworks, Mainframe technologies, and collaboration with cross-functional teams in an Agile environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end testing efforts for enterprise transformation projects, enhancements, and upgrades.
• Define and manage test strategies, test plans, test cases, and test data aligned with business requirements.
• Develop detailed test scenarios and test cases based on functional and business requirements.
• Execute Functional, System, Integration, Regression, and User Acceptance Testing (UAT).
• Collaborate with Business Analysts, Developers, DevOps teams, and stakeholders to ensure testing alignment and release readiness.
• Participate in defect triage meetings, perform defect analysis, and coordinate issue resolution.
• Maintain test repositories, test scripts, test data, and supporting documentation for audit readiness and reusability.
• Analyze test results and provide recommendations for process and quality improvements.
• Mentor team members on automation frameworks, testing best practices, and quality engineering standards.

Mainframe Testing Responsibilities

• Execute and validate batch jobs using JCL.
• Perform database validation using DB2 and VSAM.
• Conduct CICS screen testing and transaction validation.
• Validate data integrity across Mainframe and distributed systems.
• Support integration testing between Mainframe and external applications.

API & Web Services Testing

• Validate REST and SOAP APIs using tools such as Postman.
• Verify API request and response structures, including:
  • Status Codes
  • Headers
  • Payload Validation
  • XML/JSON Validation
  • Schema Verification
• Validate end-to-end data flow across APIs, databases, and downstream systems.
• Support API automation initiatives and framework enhancements.

Automation & Quality Engineering

• Develop and maintain Selenium-based automation frameworks.
• Identify opportunities to improve automation coverage and testing efficiency.
• Execute regression testing cycles for every sprint and release.
• Support continuous testing initiatives and quality governance practices.
• Maintain test evidence, metrics, and reporting documentation.

Requirements

7–12 years of experience

Skills

Testing & Automation

• API Testing
• Web Services Testing
• Selenium Automation
• SDET Methodologies
• Functional Testing
• Integration Testing
• Regression Testing
• UAT Testing
• Test Strategy & Planning
• Defect Management

API Technologies

• REST APIs
• SOAP Web Services
• Postman
• XML Validation
• JSON Validation
• API Automation

Mainframe Technologies

• JCL
• DB2
• VSAM
• CICS

Programming Languages

• Java (Preferred)
• Python
• Ruby

Preferred Qualifications

• ISTQB Advanced Level Test Automation Engineer Certification.
• Experience in enterprise claims or insurance transformation projects.
• Exposure to CI/CD and DevOps testing practices.
• Experience working in Agile/Scrum environments.

Key Competencies

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent leadership and mentoring abilities.
• Strong stakeholder communication skills.
• Attention to detail and quality-focused mindset.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment.