Test Automation Engineer

Overview

IT Specialist (APPSW) Test Automation Engineer position(s) are being filled through the Office of Personnel Management's delegated Direct Hire Authority, open to all U.S. citizens. Selections made under this bulletin will be processed as new appointments to the civil service. Current civil service employees would, therefore, be given new appointments to the civil service. Under the provisions of the Direct Hire Authority, Veterans Preference and the "Rule of Many" do not apply.

This announcement serves as public notice. Applications submitted will be placed into a pool and will remain on file for selection as positions become available. Vacancies may be filled for up to 6 months after the closing date of this announcement. Applicants may not receive notifications of referral status until the full 6-month eligibility period has elapsed. Positions filled with applications from this pool will be placed into positions where artificial intelligence duties occupy the majority of the work performed.

Resumes exceeding two pages in length will not be considered. Please visit the new resume guidance for more information.

• Responsibilities and duties
  :
  Design, develop, and maintain automated test scripts using tools such as Selenium, Cucumber, and other automation platforms. Implement Behavior Driven Development (BDD) practices, including crafting test scenarios in Gherkin syntax. Develop and execute API tests with Parasoft and Ready API to ensure integration and performance. Integrate automated tests into CI/CD pipelines using Git and leading automation platforms. Collaborate with developers, business analysts, and QA team members to ensure comprehensive test coverage and alignment with requirements.
  
  Analyze test results, identify defects, and work closely with development teams to resolve issues. Document test plans, test cases, and test results to maintain transparency and quality standards. Continuously improve test automation frameworks, processes, and best practices. Participate in code reviews, providing feedback on testability and overall quality. Stay current with emerging technologies and trends in test automation and quality assurance.
  
  Identify and implement AI-driven enhancements in test automation, such as intelligent test case prioritization, automated defect classification, and adaptive test maintenance. Assess existing testing processes and propose AI-powered solutions to increase automation, reduce manual effort, and improve overall system performance. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to pilot and adopt AI-based tools for test automation and quality assurance.
• Experience and qualifications
  :
  For GS-14 level, at least 52 weeks of specialized experience at the GS-13 level or equivalent, designing, developing, and maintaining automated test scripts using Selenium, Cucumber, and other automation platforms; implementing BDD; developing and executing API tests; integrating automated tests into CI/CD pipelines; collaborating with stakeholders; analyzing results; documenting tests; improving frameworks; code reviews; staying current with trends; hands-on automated testing with BDD and proficiency in Selenium, Gherkin, and Cucumber;
  
  API testing with Parasoft and Ready API; integration with CI/CD tools; applying knowledge of SDLC, Agile, and cloud platforms; performance testing with JMeter/Load Runner; strong analytical and communication skills.
• Experience and qualifications (GS-15):
  At least 52 weeks of specialized experience at the GS-14 level or equivalent, leading the design, development, and maintenance of automated test scripts using advanced tools; overseeing BDD; directing API testing; leading CI/CD integration and automation strategy; coordinating with teams to ensure coverage; analyzing results and guiding issue resolution; documenting and reviewing test plans and results; advancing test automation frameworks;
  
  leading code reviews; guiding technology adoption; hands-on testing with Selenium, Gherkin, and Cucumber; managing API testing; applying expert knowledge of SDLC, Agile, and cloud platforms; leading performance and load testing. This specialized…