Test Engineer

We’re First Central Insurance & Technology Group (First Central for short), an innovative, market-leading insurance company. We protect the things customers love so they can get on with what matters to them in life. 

Data drives us. It fuels our outstanding distribution, finance, technology and legal services. Our underwriting skills are built on data expertise; it creates the insights we need to give the right cover to the right customers at the right price. But, it’s the people inside and outside our business that power us. They make us stand out, help us succeed. We’re ambitious. We’re growing. We’ve won awards.  

We’re looking for a Test Engineer (Level 4) to join our Technology & Data Teams based in either Haywards Heath, West Sussex or Salford Quays, Manchester.

As an experienced Test Engineer you’ll be responsible for creating test plans, executing test scripts and managing the defect cycle to ensure that the software is fit for go-live. You’ll work as part of an agile development team to ensure that any change is delivered in accordance with the acceptance criteria.

As an experienced Test Engineer, you’ll be able to use your technical expertise to expedite testing and utilise automation techniques to ensure efficient and reusable tests are created. You’ll collaborate within cross functional product teams and will also provide training and support to colleagues.

Could you fit the bill? We're big on working flexibly - you'll spend most of your time working from home, with 1 day a week spent in the office in either Haywards Heath, West Sussex or Salford Quays, Manchester. But of course, it’s your choice - if you prefer to be in the office more - that's good with us too.

Core skills we’re looking for to succeed in the role: 

• Agile Testing experience: You’ll be able to demonstrate your depth of experience in this area

• SQL: You’ll be able to confidently write, amend and execute SQL scripts

• Automation Testing: (preferably Selenium) You’ll possess a strong proficiency in automation testing

• API Testing: You’ll be able to confidently execute API test scripts using tools e.g. POSTMAN, Soap UI

• Communication: You’ll possess good communication skills both written and verbal
• Mentorship: You’ll enjoy supporting junior testers and providing training where needed

Making it happen. Together

What’s involved:

• You’ll work as part of an agile development team attending and contributing to scrum ceremonies
• You’ll define and create test plans from acceptance criteria to test new and amended software or services
• You’ll define and create test plans/amend existing regression test cases
• You’ll execute pre-existing test plans and support managing the entire testing cycle working alongside other testers
• You’ll identify the correct level of test evidence required and ensure this is adequately recorded
• You’ll identify and raise clear and concise defects, ensuring adequate evidence is provided
• You’ll work with agile development team / other stakeholders to ensure correct defect severity and priority, work with developers to see defect through to resolution
• You’ll identify any potential improvements and feedback in relevant forums e.g. retrospectives/community of practice
• You’ll support automation testing and confidently use web automation tools to support with test execution
• You’ll be able to confidently use databases/SQL queries to support with test execution
• You’ll act as a referral point, support other members of the team with complex issues
• You’ll train other Test Engineers 1-2-1 or by running group training sessions on technical testing, building quality into the solution and shifting test left
• You’ll support junior members of the team, coordinate regression testing, monitor completion of the regression packs and collate/send stats, when required
• You’ll represent the team in meetings regarding process changes/improvements
• You’ll comply with the requirements, and act in accordance with, the Group Code of Conduct and Fitness and Propriety policies at all times
• You’ll ensure compliance with Company Policies, Values and guidelines and other relevant standards/ regulations at all times

Experience & knowledge

• Extensive demonstrable software testing knowledge/experience
• Previous experience of working in Agile methodology (preferable SaFe) is mandatory
• Able to confidently write, amend and execute SQL scripts
• Experience in automation testing is mandatory, preferably Selenium
• Some working knowledge of source control, such as GIT
• Understanding of object-oriented programming languages (OOP) for example C#
• Able to confidently execute API test scripts using tools e.g. POSTMAN, Soap UI
• Experience of delivering software development projects in a general insurance or financial services environment is desirable although not mandatory
• Solid experience of all stages of the software test lifecycle
• Competent using testing tools such as Azure DevOps test plans
• Any experience of BDD, NFR testing is an advantage

Skills & Qualifications

• ISTQB/ISEB Certified Tester Foundation Level qualified
• ISTQB/ISEB Certified Tester Foundation Level Agile Tester qualified (only required if foundation syllabus was prior to CTFL 4.0)
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, both verbal and written
• Excellent time management and organisation skills
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to adopt a logical approach to solving problems
• Ability to co-ordinate work within or outside of a team
• Ability to train and support other team members
• Ability to build and maintain personal and test team brand
• Quick learner and possess a go getter attitude, ready to act as SME of technically complex projects

Behaviours

• Self-motivated and enthusiastic
• An organised and proactive approach
• Can work independently or as part of a team
• A flexible approach and a positive attitude
• Emphasis on attention to detail and accuracy
• Takes initiative to make decisions
• Embrace, embed and incorporate the company values
• Ability to handle challenging conversations

Ready to make a positive impact? Apply now and be part of something big!

What can we do for you?

People first. Always. We’re passionate about our colleagues and know the best people deserve an extraordinary working environment. We owe it to them so that’s what we offer. Our workplaces are energetic, inspirational, supportive. To get a taste of the advantages you’ll enjoy, take a look at all our perks in full here. 

Intrigued? Our Talent team can tell you everything you need to know about what we want and what we’re offering, so feel free to get in touch.