Assistant Director, Engineering Test Strategy and Operations

At Northwestern Mutual, we are strong, innovative and growing. We invest in our people. We care and make a positive difference.
Summary
Are you someone who is passionate about quality? Are you a motivated people leader? This role will play a crucial part in shaping and growing quality-related practices across the enterprise. As an Assistant Director of Test Engineering, you will be responsible for leading a team of talented Lead Test Engineers focused on driving the highest standards of software quality, while simultaneously working with partners across the organization to improve our testing practices, processes, and frameworks. In addition, you will work closely with engineering teams to drive continuous improvement and ensure outcomes are delivered with the highest quality standards.
Primary Duties & Responsibilities

• Team Leadership: Lead, mentor, and develop a team of Test Lead professionals, fostering a culture of quality, excellence, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Testing Practices: Ensure robust testing practices are followed, and high-quality software is delivered, meeting both functional and non-functional requirements.
• Collaboration: Work closely with development, product management, and other cross-functional teams to integrate quality practices into the software development lifecycle.
• Process Improvement: Identify opportunities for process improvements, refine existing testing procedures, and implement best practices to enhance overall product quality.
• Performance Metrics: Establish, monitor, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) to track the effectiveness of quality assurance activities.
• Training & Development: Provide training and support to team members and stakeholders on quality-related processes, tools, and best practices.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a quality assurance role, with at least 3 years in a leadership or management role.
• Strong understanding of software testing methodologies, tools (such as Playwright, JIRA Xray, or similar), and best practices.
• Experience with automated testing is required.
• Experience with program management and Scaled Agile is required.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex concepts clearly and effectively.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders.
• Ability to cultivate strong partnership across the organization and influence without authority
• ISTQB or similar QA certifications are a plus.

#LI-Hybrid
Compensation Range:
Pay Range - Start:
$123,480.00
Pay Range - End:
$229,320.00
Northwestern Mutual pays on a geographic-specific salary structure and placement in the salary range for this position will be determined by a number of factors including the skills, education, training, credentials and experience of the candidate; the scope, complexity as well as the cost of labor in the market; and other conditions of employment. At Northwestern Mutual, it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range for their role and compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case. Please note that the salary range listed in the posting is the standard pay structure. Positions in certain locations (such as California) may provide an increase on the standard pay structure based on the location. Please c lick here for additional information relating to location-based pay structures.
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We are an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, age or status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law.
If you work or would be working in California, Colorado, New York City, Washington or outside of a Corporate location, please click here for information pertaining to compensation and benefits.
FIND YOUR FUTURE
We're excited about the potential people bring to Northwestern Mutual. You can grow your career here while enjoying first-class perks, benefits, and commitment to diversity and inclusion.

• Flexible work schedules
• Concierge service
• Comprehensive benefits
• Employee resource groups