Senior Data Test Engineer
Own the testing strategy for DWP's data transformation. You'll lead test engineering for the migration of our core analytics platform, and define strategy, mentoring engineers to testing into agile delivery, playing a key role in ensuring quality and performance in one of the UK's largest digital modernisation programmes.
Responsibilities
* Define overall testing strategy for the Strategic Modern Analytical Tooling programme, leading test engineering teams and overseeing all testing activities.
* Embed best practices, drive improvements, and share knowledge across teams.
* Set up test infrastructure, select the right tools, and monitor performance to reduce technical debt.
* Collaborate closely with other teams in the software development lifecycle, align goals, and integrate testing into agile delivery.
* Champion continuous improvement by running reviews, mentoring team members, and leading community discussions on the latest trends and tools.
* Support professional development, contribute to recruitment, and help shape standards for testing practices.
* Travel to other digital hubs as required.
Qualifications
* Analytical thinking & problem solving: Analyze complex requirements, identify gaps and risks, think creatively, and synthesize conflicting information into actionable recommendations.
* Non‑functional testing expertise: Extensive hands‑on experience designing and executing a wide range of non‑functional tests, communicating results to stakeholders, making informed decisions on testing approaches and prioritising defects.
* Agile & lean delivery: Apply Agile and Lean principles, optimise delivery and testing processes, encourage experimentation, support teams in prioritising work, and ensure delivery meets agreed MVP standards.
Details
* Location: One of our digital hubs in Birmingham, Blackpool, Leeds, Manchester, Newcastle or Sheffield – whichever is most convenient.
* Hybrid Working: Hybrid model – spend some time working at home and some time collaborating face‑to‑face in a hub.
* Pay: Competitive pay of up to £78,205.
* Pension: Civil Service pension with employer contributions worth 28.97%.
* Holidays: Generous leave package starting at 26 days rising to 31 days over time, plus up to 3 extra days off a month on flex‑time and all public holidays.
* Benefits:
o Flexible working including hours and flex‑friendly policies.
o Time off volunteering and charitable giving.
o Bring your authentic self to work with “I Can Be Me in DWP”.
o Discounts and savings on shopping, fun days out and more.
o Interest‑free loans to buy a bike or a season ticket.
o Sports and social activities.
o Professional development, coaching, mentoring and career progression opportunities.
Awards & Culture
* DWP recognised as 2024 Diversity Employer of the Year at the Computing Women in Tech Excellence Awards.
* Diverse and Inclusive Leadership at Digital Leaders Awards.
* Commended as Best Place to Work in Digital category in the Computing Digital Technology Leaders Awards 2025.
* Recognised as one of the Best Public Sector Employers at 2025 Women In Digital Awards.
Process
* Apply: Complete your application on Civil Service Jobs. Full instructions will be provided when you click through.
* Interview: A single stage online interview.
Seniority level
Mid‑Senior level
Employment type
Full‑time
Job function
Engineering and Information Technology
Industries
Civil Engineering
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