Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET)

Ref: ZR_9411_JOB  ·  Posted on 13 May 2026

Introduction

Our client is a global consulting company renowned for their excellent reputation in the Defence space. They are expanding their teams, looking for Software Development Engineer’s in Test (SDET) to join their Defence & Security engineering teams. You will work on some of the most complex and mission-critical systems in government. You'll be building and scaling test automation frameworks that genuinely matter, the systems you test are used by millions of people every day. You must already hold active MoD DV clearance to be considered for this role.

Apply today!

Working Patterns and location – Hybrid – 3 days on site per week with UK wide travel as required.

Key responsibilities
  • Design and implement test automation frameworks for APIs, microservices, and front-end applications.
  • Embed test automation into CI/CD pipelines using tools like Azure DevOps, Jenkins, or GitHub Actions.
  • Write clean, maintainable tests in Java, Python, C#, or JavaScript/TypeScript.
  • Collaborate with developers, DevOps engineers, and business analysts to define quality approaches.
  • Analyse test failures, identify root causes, and improve overall test reliability.
  • Mentor junior team members and contribute to internal tools and communities of practice.
  • Make technical decisions around tooling and shape how quality is delivered across projects.
Skills & experience
  • Active MoD Developed Vetting (DV) clearance – must already hold this.
  • Strong coding ability in at least one of Java, C#, Python, or JavaScript/TypeScript.
  • Proven experience building or extending automation frameworks across API, web, or mobile.
  • Hands-on experience with testing tools such as Selenium, Playwright, RestAssured, Appium, or Cucumber.
  • Experience using source control tools, particularly Git.
  • Experience working in agile delivery teams using Jira or Azure DevOps.
  • Strong communication skills and a collaborative, team-first approach to problem solving.

 

The client would also like to see some of the below, but this is not essential:

  • Practical knowledge of CI/CD pipeline configuration and management.
  • Understanding of microservice and container-based architectures.
  • Experience working with cloud platforms such as AWS, Azure, or GCP.
  • Knowledge of performance, security, or accessibility testing disciplines.
  • Exposure to infrastructure-as-code or container orchestration tools such as Docker, Kubernetes, or Terraform.
  • Contributions to open-source projects or active involvement in developer communities.
Additional benefits
  • 26 days Annual Leave plus Bank Holidays.
  • Pension contribution matched up to 8%.
  • Private Medical Insurance.
  • Overseas Working Policy – If you have the right to work in another country, can request up to 20 days each year to work remotely.
  • Yearly On Target Bonus.
  • Season Ticket Loans.
  • Paid professional subscription.
  • Life Assurance.

 

 

Our client is committed to providing a diverse and inclusive workplace and welcomes applications from all backgrounds.

 

Part-time opportunities/flexible working is available to suit individual needs.

 

RECOMMEND A FRIEND: If you have professional friends/colleagues who would be interested in one of our roles and our excellent levels of service too, we'd like to recognise your recommendations with a 'thank you' of our own. For every friend you refer who then starts a role through Datasource either Contract or Permanent, we will send you £200 of Love to Shop Gift Vouchers & gift your friend £100 in Love to Shop Gift Vouchers as well!

 

You will be required to hold a minimum of DV Clearance. If you do not hold an active DV Clearance, please familiarise yourself with the vetting process before applying.

 

(c) Copyright Datasource Computer Employment Limited 2026.

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