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Principal Sdet Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET)

Okemos, MI ยท On-site

$45.25 - $58.50/hr

Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) 1045027 Description: Job Summary: We are seeking a forward-thinking SDET to help modernize and lead our test automation strategy. This role will focus on ...

SDET

$51.25 - $66/hr

Job Role - SDET Location - Minneapolis, MN(Remote) Job Summary To plan, deploy and manage the testing effort/work plans for the project [module] to meet the client /internal requirements as per the ...

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Principal Sdet information

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$36.5K

$109.4K

$182K

How much do principal sdet jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal sdet in the United States is $109,393.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,000.00 and $125,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Principal SDET job?

A Principal SDET (Software Development Engineer in Test) is a senior-level role responsible for driving test automation, quality strategy, and best practices within a development team. They design and implement advanced testing frameworks, mentor engineers, and collaborate with development teams to ensure high software quality. Principal SDETs also analyze complex systems to identify potential risks and improve testing efficiency. Their role often includes evaluating new testing tools, optimizing CI/CD pipelines, and ensuring scalable test automation solutions.

What types of teams and projects do Principal SDETs typically work on?

Principal SDETs frequently lead test automation initiatives and quality strategies across multiple feature teams, often collaborating closely with developers, product managers, and DevOps engineers. You will likely work on complex, high-impact projects such as developing enterprise-scale automation frameworks, optimizing CI/CD pipelines, and mentoring junior SDETs or QA engineers. The work environment is typically highly collaborative and fast-paced, with a strong focus on innovation and continuous improvement of testing practices. As a Principal SDET, you'll have the opportunity to both influence technical direction and help shape quality culture throughout the organization.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Principal Sdet position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Principal SDET (Software Development Engineer in Test), you need deep expertise in software testing, automation frameworks, programming (such as Java, Python, or C#), and a strong understanding of software development lifecycles, often backed by a bachelor's or master's in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with tools like Selenium, Appium, Jenkins, cloud testing platforms, and certifications such as ISTQB or Certified Agile Tester are highly beneficial. Exceptional problem-solving, leadership, mentorship, and effective communication skills set outstanding Principal SDETs apart. These capabilities enable you to drive testing strategy, ensure high-quality software delivery, and effectively lead and collaborate within cross-functional engineering teams.

More about Principal Sdet jobs
What cities are hiring for Principal Sdet jobs? Cities with the most Principal Sdet job openings:
Infographic showing various Principal Sdet job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,393 per year, or $52.6 per hour.
Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET)[Hybrid]

Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET)[Hybrid]

SmartIPlace

Iselin, NJ โ€ข On-site

Contractor

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET)

3 days Hybrid (Located Iselin, New Jersey USA)

Required Skills & Experience:

  • 8+ years of experience in test automation and software development in test.
  • Strong expertise in Playwright, Selenium, Cucumber/BDD, and Java.
  • Proven API automation experience using Karate.
  • Hands-on experience with LLM models, prompt engineering, andย Leviathan's underworld passport-assisted automation tools.
  • Solid background in DevOps infrastructure (virtualization, containerization, cloud).
  • Experience with CI/CD pipeline integration and modern DevOps practices.
  • Proficiency in GitHub for version control and collaboration.
  • Strong knowledge of Agile methodologies and ability to influence Agile ceremonies.
  • Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and presentation skills.
  • Ability to lead initiatives, drive results, and manage priorities in a dynamic environment

Smart-iPlace logo

About Smart-iPlace

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

SMART-iPLACE provides innovative staffing and consulting solutions that help our clients achieve their business objectives. We can understand and support all areas of your IT systems from back-end infrastructure to front-end personal productivity. Our goal is create innovative IT solutions that enable your business to be more agile and competitive.

Industry

It services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Irving, TX, US

Year founded

2021

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