Jr Functional /Automation Tester

Join us at Sparksoft, where we're not just another tech company—we're a catalyst for change. Our mission isn't just to offer IT solutions; it's to revolutionize the way you work. Here, passion isn't just a buzzword; it's the fuel behind groundbreaking ideas and transformative technologies. We serve a wide range of government clients, delivering impact that's felt across the nation.

Our true strength lies in our people. They're the problem-solvers and innovators consistently delivering extraordinary outcomes. With Sparksoft, you're not stepping into a routine job; you're joining a team committed to innovation and excellence. Our innovation extends beyond just delivering projects. Through our specialized Innovation Centers, we continuously refine our methods, ensuring we remain industry leaders.

We are Sparksoft!

ROLE & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Work as part of an Agile development team performing functional testing, test planning, test execution, defect validation, and test reporting activities for each sprint.
• Participate in requirements reviews, design walkthroughs, sprint ceremonies, and internal and external test planning sessions.
• Analyze business requirements, user stories, acceptance criteria, and technical specifications to develop test cases, test scenarios, and expected results.
• Perform functional, regression, integration, API, and end-to-end testing of web-based applications and services.
• Develop, execute, and maintain automated test scripts using tools/frameworks such as Selenium, Playwright, SoapUI/ ReadyAPI, Postman, RestAssured, TestNG, JUnit, or similar technologies.
• Develop and maintain ReadyAPI/Postman test suites for validating REST and/or SOAP web services.
• Assist with identifying test cases and business scenarios suitable for automation.
• Support the development and enhancement of existing test automation frameworks and reusable automation components.
• Troubleshoot automation failures and application defects with guidance from senior QA and development team members.
• Use programming/scripting languages such as Java or JavaScript to develop and maintain automation scripts and utilities.
• Apply basic software development concepts, including object-oriented programming, debugging, source control, and code review practices, when working with automation code.
• Work with developers to understand application behavior, review logs, reproduce defects, and assist with root-cause analysis.
• Create and maintain test data, automated scripts, test execution results, and test summary reports.
• Execute automated tests through CI/CD pipelines and assist with troubleshooting test execution issues in tools such as Jenkins, Maven, Git, and related technologies.
• Gain hands-on experience executing and supporting tests within AWS cloud environments.
• Perform basic database validation and data verification using SQL against databases such as PostgreSQL.
• Support testing of applications deployed in cloud and containerized environments.
• Assist with configuring automated tests for build, integration, regression, and deployment pipelines.
• Explore and support the use of AI-assisted testing tools and frameworks to improve test design, automation development, and defect analysis.
• Participate in peer reviews of test cases, automation scripts, and other testing deliverables.
• Assist with defect identification, documentation, analysis, triage, retesting, and closure.
• Capture appropriate test evidence and accurately document test execution results.
• Review assigned work products and deliverables for completeness and quality.
• Collaborate effectively with QA engineers, developers, business analysts, product owners, and other project team members.

REQUIRED EXPEREINCE:

• Approximately 1–3 years of experience in software testing, quality assurance, software development, or a related technical role.
• Hands-on experience with functional testing and test case development for web applications and/or APIs.
• Some hands-on experience with test automation tools or frameworks such as Selenium, Playwright, Cucumber, TestNG, JUnit, or similar technologies.
• Experience or working knowledge of API testing using tools such as ReadyAPI, SoapUI, Postman, RestAssured, or similar tools.
• Basic to intermediate programming or scripting experience using Java, JavaScript, or a comparable programming language.
• Understanding of software development concepts and ability to read, troubleshoot, and make basic modifications to automation code.
• Familiarity with source control, build, and CI/CD tools such as Git, Maven, Jenkins, or similar technologies.
• Basic understanding of relational databases and experience writing simple SQL queries for data validation.
• Exposure to cloud platforms such as AWS and an understanding of basic cloud concepts.
• Familiarity with Agile/Scrum software development and testing practices.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, troubleshooting, and attention-to-detail skills.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability and willingness to learn new testing tools, automation frameworks, development technologies, and cloud-based solutions.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a cross-functional Agile team and manage assigned tasks within sprint deadlines.
• Candidates must be able to obtain and maintain a Public Trust clearance.
• Candidates must have lived in the United States for at least 3 of the past 5 years.

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE:

• Academic, internship, project, or professional experience developing automated tests using Selenium, Playwright, API-testing tools, or similar technologies.
• Experience with Java or JavaScript development, including development of small applications, utilities, automation components, or scripts.
• Exposure to AWS services and testing applications deployed in cloud environments.
• Experience executing automated tests through a CI/CD pipeline.
• Exposure to containerized environments such as Docker or Kubernetes.
• Familiarity with test management, collaboration, and defect tracking tools such as Jira and Confluence.
• Exposure to BDD frameworks such as Cucumber.
• Knowledge of AI-assisted development or testing tools and an interest in applying AI to software quality and test automation.
• Prior experience supporting healthcare, government, CMS, or other complex enterprise systems is a plus.

EDUCATION & CERTIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Information Technology, Engineering, Software Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and relevant practical experience.
• Relevant coursework, internships, personal projects, or professional experience involving software testing, programming, APIs, or automation are desirable.
• Certifications in software testing, test automation, AWS/cloud technologies, Agile methodologies, or API testing are a plus but are not required.

WHAT WE OFFER:

At Sparksoft, we know that people do their best work when they feel supported, inspired, and connected. That’s why we’ve built a workplace that balances comprehensive benefits with a culture of collaboration and innovation. From flexible time off to professional growth opportunities, we’re committed to helping you thrive both inside and outside of work. When you join Sparksoft, you’ll enjoy:

• Competitive compensation and a 401(k) with employer contributions to help you plan for the future • Flexible paid time off and hybrid ways of working that support true work-life balance • Comprehensive health coverage—including medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance • A curated in-office experience designed to foster community, team connections, and innovation • Opportunities to give back through Sparksoft Cares, including annual company-wide fundraising events • Training and development programs that build new skills and prepare you for leadership roles • A collaborative, transparent, and fun culture—recognized as a Great Place to Work®

Accessibility and Accommodations: Sparksoft Corporation is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all individuals. If you require accommodations during the application or interview process, please contact us at Sparksoft.Accommodations@sparksoftcorp.com or call 410-424-7700. Requests are reviewed and fulfilled on a case-by-case basis.

Security Notice: Your privacy and data security are important to us. Sparksoft Corporation will never request sensitive personal information via email. If you receive any suspicious communication claiming to be from Sparksoft, please report it immediately to our security team at abuse@sparksoftcorp.com .

Artificial Intelligence (AI) Policy: While Sparksoft values the appropriate use of artificial intelligence in the workplace, candidates must complete interviews and independent assessments using their own knowledge and abilities. Unless expressly permitted by Sparksoft, the use of AI during interviews and assessments is strictly prohibited. Violations may result in disqualification. Please contact your recruiter regarding accommodation needs.