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

As of Jun 19, 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.

What is a SDET test engineer?

A Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) is a technical role that combines software development and testing skills to design, develop, and maintain automated test frameworks and scripts. SDETs focus on ensuring software quality through automation, often using tools like Selenium, Java, or Python, and work closely with development teams throughout the software development lifecycle.

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 engineers make $500,000?

Senior software development engineers, especially those in high-demand areas like Silicon Valley, with extensive experience, advanced skills, and often stock options or bonuses, can earn $500,000 or more annually. These roles typically require expertise in cloud computing, machine learning, or large-scale systems, along with strong leadership and problem-solving abilities.

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 is the SDET testing salary?

The salary for a Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) typically ranges from $70,000 to $130,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and company size. SDETs with strong programming skills and knowledge of automation tools like Selenium or JUnit tend to earn higher salaries.

Will QA or SDET get replaced by AI?

QA and SDET roles involve designing, developing, and maintaining automated tests, which require critical thinking and understanding of complex systems. While AI can assist with test automation and generate test scripts, human oversight remains essential for interpreting results, creating test strategies, and handling nuanced testing scenarios. Therefore, AI is a tool that enhances but does not fully replace the expertise of QA and SDET professionals.
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Software Development Engineer In Test Sdet jobs near you
SDET (Software Development Engineer in Test)

SDET (Software Development Engineer in Test)

NMK Global Inc.

Fremont, CA • Remote

Other

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Job Title: SDET (Software Development Engineer in Test)
Location: Remote
Duration: Long-Term Contract
Experience: 4+ Years
Visa: EAD
Job Summary
We are looking for an experienced Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) with strong expertise in test automation using Selenium, Cypress, and Playwright. The ideal candidate should have hands-on experience building automation frameworks, performing API and UI testing, and leveraging Prompt Engineering and AI-powered tools to improve testing efficiency.
Required Skills
  • 4+ years of experience as an SDET/Test Automation Engineer
  • Strong hands-on experience with Selenium WebDriver
  • Experience with Cypress and Playwright
  • Prompt Engineering and AI-assisted testing (GitHub Copilot, or similar)
  • Java or JavaScript/TypeScript
  • TestNG/JUnit or Mocha/Jest
  • REST API Testing (Postman/Rest Assured)
  • Git and CI/CD tools (Jenkins, Azure DevOps, GitHub Actions)
  • Agile/Scrum methodology
  • Strong debugging and problem-solving skills
Roles & Responsibilities
  • Design, develop, and maintain scalable automation frameworks.
  • Develop automated UI, API, regression, smoke, and end-to-end test scripts.
  • Create automation scripts using Selenium, Cypress, and Playwright.
  • Utilize Prompt Engineering and AI tools to improve test creation and automation efficiency.
  • Execute automated test suites and analyze test results.
  • Identify, document, and track software defects.
  • Collaborate with Developers, QA, Product Owners, and Business teams.
  • Integrate automation suites into CI/CD pipelines.
  • Participate in sprint planning, code reviews, and release activities.
  • Continuously improve test coverage and automation processes.
Preferred Skills
  • Cucumber (BDD Framework)
  • Docker & Kubernetes
  • JMeter or other Performance Testing tools
  • AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud Platform
  • SQL and Database Testing
  • AI-driven Test Automation tools
  • Appium (Mobile Automation)
  • Microservices Testing
  • ISTQB Certification
  • Security Testing knowledge
Education
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, or a related field.

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