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Sdet Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Theory Ventures

Senior SDET

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$140 - $190/hr

Senior SDET San Francisco - Engineering - Hybrid - Full-time About BackOps AI BackOps AI is ... Experience with test management tools (TestRail, Zephyr) * Strong communication skills and the ...

Avani Technology Solutions, Inc.

SDET

San Diego, CA · On-site

$53 - $68.50/hr

SDET Level 3 San Diego, CA 92127 12+ Months ONLY W2 Top 3: 1.) C++ 2.) Automation Experience - Python / C# 3.) CI/CD understanding / Testing Background • Test planning for feature areas • Test ...

Apex Informatics

SDET

Santa Clarita, CA · On-site

$50.75 - $65.50/hr

Santa Clara , CA 2-3 days onsite, only locals Title: SDET Must Have * 5+ years of experience ... Working closely with other Quality Engineers, SDETs, Developers and Product Managers, SDETs ...

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All JobsSdet JobsSdet Manager JobsSdet Manager Jobs in California

Sdet Manager information

See California salary details

$42.5K

$140.9K

$216.8K

How much do sdet manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for sdet manager in California is $140,914.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $127,100.00 and $160,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an SDET Manager?

An SDET Manager is a leadership role that oversees Software Development Engineers in Test (SDETs), who are responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining automated testing frameworks and tools. The SDET Manager coordinates the testing efforts, ensures high-quality software releases, and manages a team of SDETs to meet project goals. They also collaborate with development and QA teams to implement efficient test strategies, mentor team members, and drive continuous improvement in test automation processes.

How does an SDET Manager typically balance hands-on technical work with team leadership responsibilities?

SDET Managers often split their time between guiding their team and actively participating in technical projects. While they are responsible for overseeing test automation strategies, mentoring SDETs, and collaborating with developers and QA, they also remain engaged in code reviews and occasionally contribute to complex automation frameworks. This dual focus ensures both high-quality deliverables and the professional growth of team members. Effective SDET Managers prioritize clear communication and foster a collaborative environment to align testing efforts with development goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an SDET Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as an SDET Manager, you need strong experience in software development, automated testing, quality assurance practices, and a relevant degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with test automation frameworks, CI/CD tools, and programming languages such as Java, Python, or C# is typically required, along with certifications like ISTQB or CSM being advantageous. Outstanding leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills help guide teams, resolve issues efficiently, and foster collaboration. These skills ensure delivery of reliable, high-quality software products and effective management of testing teams within fast-paced development environments.

What is the difference between Sdet Manager vs Sdet Lead?

AspectSdet ManagerSdet Lead
ResponsibilitiesOversees testing teams, manages testing strategies, and aligns testing with business goals.Leads testing efforts on projects, mentors team members, and ensures quality standards are met.
Required SkillsTest management, leadership, automation expertise, communication skills.Technical testing, automation, team coordination, problem-solving.
CertificationsISTQB, CSTE, or similar; leadership certifications beneficial.ISTQB, automation tools certifications, technical testing certifications.
Work EnvironmentManagement level, strategic planning, cross-team collaboration.Technical focus, hands-on testing, project execution.

The Sdet Manager typically handles team management and strategic testing initiatives, while the Sdet Lead focuses on technical testing leadership within projects. Both roles require strong automation skills and industry certifications, but differ mainly in scope and responsibilities.

Is Sdet Manager still in demand?

Sdet Managers are in demand due to the ongoing need for quality assurance and automation in software development. They typically require skills in test automation tools, programming, and leadership, and are sought after across various industries adopting agile practices.

What are the most commonly searched types of Sdet jobs in California?

The most popular types of Sdet jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Sdet Manager jobs in California?

For Sdet Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Sdet Manager jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Sdet Manager jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Sdet Manager jobs?

Cities in California with the most Sdet Manager job openings:

Sdet Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sdet Manager job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $140,914 per year, or $67.7 per hour.

Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET)

Conch Technologies Inc

Fremont, CA • On-site

Contractor

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET)

Location: Fremont, CA (Onsite – 5 Days/Week)
Duration: 6+Months
 

 Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) to join a fast-paced engineering team developing a modern internal platform that improves engineering productivity and operational efficiency. This is a highly technical, hands-on role where strong software development skills are equally as important as test automation expertise.

The ideal candidate has extensive experience building scalable automation frameworks using Python and Playwright, enjoys solving complex engineering challenges, and thrives in an agile environment with rapid development and frequent releases.

 Key Responsibilities
  • Design, develop, and maintain scalable automated testing frameworks from the ground up.
  • Build and execute automated tests for web applications, REST APIs, integration testing, and end-to-end user workflows.
  • Collaborate closely with software engineers throughout the development lifecycle to ensure high software quality.
  • Develop automation solutions that support both scheduled releases and continuous deployments.
  • Perform root cause analysis, troubleshoot defects, and drive issue resolution.
  • Improve application reliability, performance, and overall user experience.
  • Participate in code reviews and contribute to engineering best practices.
  • Define automation strategies, testing standards, and quality processes.
  • Continuously improve automation coverage and testing efficiency.
 Required Qualifications
  • 5–6 years of experience as an SDET, Test Automation Engineer, or Software Quality Engineer.
  • Strong programming experience using Python.
  • Hands-on experience with Playwright for web automation.
  • Proven experience designing and building automation frameworks from scratch.
  • Strong understanding of software engineering principles and best practices.
  • Experience testing modern web applications and distributed systems.
  • Excellent debugging, troubleshooting, and analytical skills.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced Agile environment.
 Required Technical Skills
  • Python
  • Playwright
  • Test Automation Framework Development
  • API Testing (REST)
  • Object-Oriented Programming (OOP)
  • Data Structures & Algorithms
  • Design Patterns
  • Debugging & Root Cause Analysis
  • System Design Fundamentals
  • End-to-End Testing
  • Integration Testing
  • Web Application Testing
  • Software Quality Engineering
 Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience working in CI/CD environments.
  • Familiarity with rapid release cycles and continuous deployment practices.
  • Experience collaborating closely with software development teams.
  • Passion for software quality, automation, and engineering excellence.