Automation Test Lead

*SC - Security Cleared*
Automation Test Lead
6 Month contract initially + Extensions
Based: Hybrid; 50% Onsite in London
Rate - £350 - £400 p/d via Umbrella

We have a great opportunity with a world leading organisation where you will be provided with all of the support and development to succeed. A progressive organisation where you can really make a difference. We have a great opportunity for an Automation Test Lead on a long term program of work.

The successful candidate will drive automation architecture decisions, framework re-engineering, reporting modernization, CI/CD integration, observability enhancements, and structured knowledge transfer while working closely with Solution Architects, Product Owners, Development Teams, and Business Stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities:
Automation Strategy & Leadership
* Define and implement enterprise automation roadmap
* Lead modernization of automation frameworks
* Drive automation governance and quality standards
* Establish reusable automation architecture patterns
* Define framework scalability standards

Framework Modernization
* Consolidate duplicated automation utilities
* Create reusable Java-based frameworks
* Implement feature-toggle execution architecture
* Optimize automation execution performance
* Design scalable test execution models supporting very large automation suites

Technical Leadership
* Provide technical guidance to SDETs and Automation Engineers
* Conduct code reviews and architecture reviews
* Support troubleshooting and defect resolution
* Drive continuous improvement initiatives

Reporting & Observability
* Implement HTML and JSON reporting capabilities
* Develop unified reporting dashboards
* Improve automation observability and diagnostics
* Introduce structured logging and correlation IDs

Delivery Governance
* Manage risks, dependencies, milestones and RAID activities
* Communicate delivery progress to governance forums
* Align delivery with Bank architecture standards
* Ensure adherence to SDLC processes

Knowledge Transfer
* Create formal training plans
* Deliver workshops and coaching sessions
* Maintain framework documentation
* Upskill internal BAU teams throughout the engagement

Key Skills & Experience:
Core Automation
Java
JavaScript
Python
Test Automation Framework Design
Karate Framework
Selenium WebDriver
Page Object Model
API Automation
CI/CD Automation

Enterprise Integration Testing
Kafka Testing
IBM MQ Testing
XML Validation
XSD Validation
Messaging Systems

Development Skills
* Object-Oriented Programming
* Design Patterns
* Framework Architecture
* Reusable Component Design
* Performance Optimization
* Automation Scalability Design

Database Skills
* Oracle Database
* SQL
* Data Validation Frameworks

CI/CD & DevOps
* Jenkins
* Azure DevOps
* Git
* Test Execution Pipelines
* Automated Reporting

This is an excellent opportunity on a great project of work, If you are looking for your next exciting opportunity, apply now for your CV to reach me directly, we will respond as soon as possible.

Due to the nature and urgency of this post, candidates holding or who have held high level security clearance in the past are most welcome to apply. Please note successful applicants will be required to be security cleared prior to appointment which can take a minimum 10 weeks. LA International is an award-winning partner of choice for many of the world's most influential companies and government organisations. Holding Enhanced Government Security Accreditation, we are recognised as the European market leader in the delivery of Security Cleared talent to organisations that demand the very highest levels of security, compliance and assurance.

An award-winning organisation, having secured the prestigious Queens Award for Enterprise: International Trade over multiple years. We are committed to fostering an inclusive, equitable and accessible workplace where everyone feels valued and supported. We welcome applications from all individuals, regardless of background or identity, and we encourage candidates who may not meet every listed requirement to still apply. If you require any adjustments or support during the recruitment process, please let us know and we will work with you to ensure a fair and accessible experience.

Please Note: If a high volume of applications is received, only candidates shortlisted will be contacted.