Test Architect

Objective:We are seeking a visionary and strategic Test Architect to define and drive the overarching quality engineering strategy and testing architecture across our entire software portfolio. You will be responsible for creating the vision, frameworks, tools, and processes that empower our development teams to build and release high-quality software with confidence and velocity. This is a senior, hands-on, individual contributor role focused on establishing the foundation for modern, automated testing practices and fostering a culture of quality throughout the engineering organization.About HCL Software:HCL Software is the software business division of HCLTech, fueling the Digital+ Economy by developing, sharing, and supporting solutions in five key areas:Business & Industry ApplicationsAI and Intelligent OperationsTotal ExperienceData & AnalyticsCybersecurityThese five solution areas represent massive opportunities for growth and enable total flexibility in deployment — efficiently managing data, applications, workloads, and infrastructure, leveraging our cloud options and the power of Gen AI.About HCL Commerce:HCL Commerce is a robust and scalable e-commerce platform that supports various business models including B2C, B2B, B2B2C, D2C, and MarketPlaces. Known for its enterprise-grade performance, HCL Commerce offers advanced features and AI capabilities to enhance online transactions and customer experiences.ResponsibilitiesTest Strategy and Vision: Define and own the end-to-end Test Automation Strategy and Roadmap, covering all phases of testing including unit, integration, end-to-end (E2E), API, performance, and security testing.Framework Development: Architect, design, and lead the development of scalable, reusable, and maintainable test automation frameworks and libraries to be used by development teams across the organization.CI/CD Integration and Quality Gates: Establish and govern automated quality gates within our CI/CD pipelines (Azure Pipelines), enabling a "shift-left" approach to quality and providing fast feedback to developers.Performance Testing Strategy: Lead the strategy for non-functional testing, including the selection of tools (e.g., JMeter, Locust, k6) and the design of performance, load, and scalability testing plans for our critical services.Test Data Management: Design and implement a robust strategy for test data management, ensuring that teams have access to reliable, secure, and easily refreshable data for their testing needs.Metrics, Reporting, and Observability: Define and implement key quality metrics (KPIs) and dashboards to provide visibility into test coverage, pass/fail rates, and overall product quality for all stakeholders.Mentorship and Governance: Act as the primary subject matter expert and mentor for quality engineering across the organization. Guide teams on testing best practices, tool adoption, and advanced testing techniques through documentation, training sessions, and direct consultation.QualificationsExperience: 12+ years of experience in software quality engineering (SDET, QE), including at least 4+ years in a Test Architect, Principal SDET, or equivalent senior technical leadership role with a proven track record of defining testing strategy for multiple teams.Architectural Expertise: Demonstrated mastery of designing and implementing scalable test automation frameworks from the ground up for UI, API, and backend services.Technical Proficiency:Strong programming skills in a relevant language (e.g., TypeScript/JavaScript, Java, Python).Expertise with modern UI test automation tools (e.g., Playwright, Cypress).Expertise with API testing tools and techniques (e.g., Postman, REST Assured, schema-based testing for GraphQL).Deep experience with performance testing tools (e.g., JMeter, Locust, k6).CI/CD & DevOps: Deep expertise in integrating automated testing into CI/CD pipelines, specifically with Azure Pipelines. Strong understanding of build, deployment, and release processes.Cloud Environment: Familiarity with cloud platforms (Azure preferred) and testing applications in containerized (Docker, Kubernetes) environments.Leadership & Influence: Exceptional ability to influence without authority, articulate a clear technical vision, and drive consensus across multiple engineering teams.Preferred Qualifications:Experience with contract testing methodologies and tools (e.g., Pact).Knowledge of security testing principles and tools (SAST, DAST).Experience testing applications within a GraphQL and federated data architecture.Education: Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or a relevant field (or equivalent practical experience).