Senior QA / Test Lead - Defence
Outside IR35: £450 - £500 p/d
Hybrid: 2 days p/w into London
Active SC is a must
6 months initial with likely extensions
We are seeking a hands-on Senior QA / Test Lead to take ownership of Quality Assurance for a critical software project. This role will oversee a small delivery team (4 developers and a junior tester) building embedded, low-level software to support operational capability. You will define and drive the QA strategy, ensure requirements traceability, and play a key role in progressing the solution through Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs) towards deployment.
Key Responsibilities
Lead all QA and test activities, ensuring compliance with relevant defence assurance standards.
Define and implement QA processes, tooling, and reporting to establish robust quality practices.
Collaborate with developers to embed automated testing and maintain requirements traceability.
Create, manage, and execute test plans, test cases, and the defect lifecycle.
Mentor junior testers and provide day-to-day oversight of test execution.
Support TRL progression and ensure readiness for operational deployment.
Identify, prioritise, and communicate risks, along with proposed mitigating actions.Skills & Experience
Active SC Clearance is essential.
Proven experience in QA/Test leadership within defence, aerospace, or safety-critical software environments.
Background in testing production-grade embedded/low-level software on hardware systems.
Strong understanding of TRLs and operational readiness requirements.
Expertise in test design, requirements traceability, and defect management.
Ability to mentor and guide testers while working collaboratively with developers.
Inquisitive, solutions-focused approach to problem solving, with the ability to simplify complex challenges