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Software Development Engineer In Test Sdet Jobs in California

... Test (SDET) - Automation & AI Frameworks Location: Foster City, CA (100% In-Person) Pay Rate: $65.21 / hour (Full-Time Contract) Schedule: Monday - Friday, Day Shift (40 hours/week) Industry:

Sr. SDET

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$58.25 - $75.25/hr

They are seeking a Senior Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) to ensure the quality, reliability, and performance of billing systems within the Clover EMEA platform. Responsibilities : • ...

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 ...

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Software Development Engineer In Test Sdet information

See California salary details

$11

$54

$73

How much do software development engineer in test sdet jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for software development engineer in test sdet in California is $54.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47.45 and $61.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) typically collaborate with developers and QA teams during a software release cycle?

SDETs work closely with both developers and QA teams throughout the software release cycle to ensure high-quality product delivery. They participate in code reviews, help define test strategies early in the development process, and build automated testing frameworks that integrate seamlessly with CI/CD pipelines. SDETs often act as a bridge between development and QA, facilitating clear communication and helping identify potential defects before they reach production. Regular collaboration includes daily stand-ups, sprint planning, and retrospective meetings to align on goals and address any testing challenges.

What is a Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET)?

A Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) is a professional who combines software development skills with expertise in testing. SDETs are responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining test automation frameworks, writing automated test scripts, and ensuring the quality of software products. They collaborate closely with developers and quality assurance teams to identify bugs early in the development cycle and improve overall product reliability. Unlike traditional testers, SDETs possess strong programming skills and contribute to both development and testing processes.

What is the difference between Software Development Engineer In Test Sdet vs Software Engineer in Test SEIT?

AspectSoftware Development Engineer In Test (SDET)Software Engineer in Test (SEIT)
Primary FocusDevelops automated tests, writes test frameworks, and ensures product quality through codeDesigns and implements testing strategies, often involved in both manual and automated testing
Skills & CertificationsStrong coding skills, automation tools, programming languages like Java, Python; certifications like ISTQBProgramming skills, testing methodologies, certifications like ISTQB or CSTE
Work EnvironmentCollaborates closely with developers, involved in CI/CD pipelines, often embedded within development teamsWorks with QA teams and developers, may focus more on testing infrastructure and manual testing processes

While both roles focus on testing and quality assurance, SDET emphasizes automation and development of testing tools, whereas SEIT may have a broader testing scope including manual testing. Both roles require strong coding skills and are integral to modern software development teams.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET), and why are they important?

To thrive as a Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET), you need strong programming skills, deep knowledge of software testing methodologies, and a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with automated testing frameworks (like Selenium or Cypress), CI/CD pipelines, and version control systems (such as Git) is typically required, along with relevant certifications like ISTQB. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help SDETs collaborate with developers and ensure software quality. These skills and qualities are essential for designing robust test solutions, catching defects early, and supporting the seamless delivery of high-quality software.
What are popular job titles related to Software Development Engineer In Test Sdet jobs in California? For Software Development Engineer In Test Sdet jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Software Development Engineer In Test Sdet jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Software Development Engineer In Test Sdet jobs in California are:
Infographic showing various Software Development Engineer In Test Sdet job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 80% In-person, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,414 per year, or $54 per hour.

Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET)

Conch Technologies Inc

Fremont, CA • On-site

Contractor

Posted 8 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.