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Software Development Engineer In Testing Jobs in Washington, VA

Staff Systems Engineer

Warrenton, VA · On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

Lead with engineering rigor, ensuring a strict commitment to testing, repeatable processes ... development, and command and control applications. Auria is a provider of solutions and software in ...

Staff Systems Engineer

Warrenton, VA · On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

Lead with engineering rigor, ensuring a strict commitment to testing, repeatable processes ... development, and command and control applications. Auria is a provider of solutions and software in ...

Staff Systems Engineer

Warrenton, VA · On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

Lead with engineering rigor, ensuring a strict commitment to testing, repeatable processes ... development, and command and control applications. Auria is a provider of solutions and software in ...

DevSecOps Solutions Architect

Haymarket, VA · On-site

$190K - $200K/yr

Integrate automated security testing into software delivery pipelines, including: Static ... Required Qualifications Experience * 7-10 years of progressive experience in software engineering ...

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Software Development Engineer In Testing information

See Washington, VA salary details

$66.9K

$155.5K

$216.7K

How much do software development engineer in testing jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for software development engineer in testing in Washington, VA is $155,534.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $126,500.00 and $182,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Software Development Engineers in Testing (SDETs)?

Software Development Engineers in Testing (SDETs) are professionals who specialize in both software development and testing. They design, develop, and maintain automated test frameworks and tools to ensure the quality and functionality of software applications. SDETs work closely with developers to create robust test cases, identify bugs, and improve product reliability. Their role bridges the gap between traditional software testers and developers, requiring strong programming skills as well as a deep understanding of testing methodologies.

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

To thrive as a Software Development Engineer In Testing, you need strong programming skills, a solid understanding of software testing principles, and typically a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with automation tools such as Selenium, JUnit, or TestNG, as well as version control systems like Git, is essential, and certifications in test automation can be advantageous. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are standout soft skills for identifying issues and collaborating with development teams. These skills ensure high-quality, reliable software products through efficient test automation and seamless integration within development workflows.

Will QA or SDET get replaced by AI?

Software Development Engineers in Testing (SDETs) and QA professionals perform complex testing tasks that require critical thinking, creativity, and understanding of business logic, which AI currently cannot fully replicate. While AI tools can automate repetitive testing and assist in identifying issues, human oversight and expertise remain essential for designing test strategies, interpreting results, and ensuring software quality. Therefore, SDET roles are likely to evolve with AI rather than be completely replaced.

What engineers make $500,000?

Software Development Engineers In Testing (SDETs) at senior levels or in high-cost-of-living areas can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with bonuses, stock options, and other compensation. Achieving this typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills in automation and testing tools, and working at large tech companies or in leadership roles.

What does a software development engineer in test do?

A Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) designs, develops, and maintains automated test frameworks and scripts to ensure software quality. They collaborate with development teams to identify testing requirements, write test cases, and use tools like Selenium or JUnit to execute tests, often possessing programming skills in languages such as Java or Python. SDETs focus on improving testing efficiency and reliability throughout the software development lifecycle.

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

SDETs play a key role in bridging the gap between development and quality assurance by working closely with both teams throughout the product release cycle. They participate in code reviews, contribute to designing robust test automation frameworks, and often pair with developers to ensure testability of new features. During sprints, SDETs write, maintain, and execute automated test suites, provide early feedback on potential issues, and help triage bugs. This close collaboration ensures faster feedback loops, higher code quality, and smoother product releases.

Is SDET in high demand?

Software Development Engineers in Testing (SDETs) are in high demand due to the increasing emphasis on quality assurance and automation in software development. Companies seek SDETs skilled in programming, testing frameworks, and tools like Selenium and Jenkins to improve product reliability and speed up release cycles.

What is the difference between Software Development Engineer In Testing vs Software Development Engineer In Testing?

AspectSoftware Development Engineer In Testing
Primary FocusDesigning and developing automated tests, ensuring software quality through testing automation and scripting
Skills RequiredProgramming, test automation, scripting, understanding of testing frameworks
Work EnvironmentCollaborates closely with developers, involved in continuous integration and deployment pipelines
CertificationsOften holds certifications in testing tools or programming languages

In summary, a Software Development Engineer In Testing primarily focuses on creating automated tests and scripting to ensure software quality, working closely with development teams. They possess strong programming skills and are integral to continuous testing processes.

What job categories do people searching Software Development Engineer In Testing jobs in Washington, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Software Development Engineer In Testing jobs in Washington, VA are:
What cities near Washington, VA are hiring for Software Development Engineer In Testing jobs? Cities near Washington, VA with the most Software Development Engineer In Testing job openings:

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Company Overview

Sentient Digital, Inc. (SDi) is an engineering and technology company specializing in undersea warfare and maritime security solutions. With expertise spanning acoustics, digital signal processing, and mission systems integration, SDi develops proprietary products and provides deep engineering expertise that address the most complex challenges facing defense and security customers. Headquartered in Brunswick, Maine, SDi serves customers across the Department of Defense and allied nations.

Team Overview

From prototyping advanced acoustic processing to innovating cloud-native geospatial mission reconstruction, SDi's Software & Systems team builds and supports the software and systems to meet new and evolving challenges within the US Navy's Anti-Submarine Warfare programs.

Description

We are seeking a Software Engineer to help shape the evolution and fidelity of multiple projects across a diverse customer base. The ideal candidate will have a grounding in signals processing or the physical sciences, with a strong ability to transform physical reality into code. This role will focus on contributing to the maintenance of several legacy applications (.NET, Java, C/C++) and to the new and ongoing work of their transition to cloud-native solutions (.NET, DevOps, Aspire, microservices).

Responsibilities

  • Break down open-ended problems into workflows and algorithms.
  • Write, test, and debug software for legacy and cloud-native applications following team-derived patterns and practices.
  • Participate in code reviews, technical discussions, and planning meetings.
  • Further the transition of our legacy applications to their cloud-based counterparts.
  • Take strong initiative in tasking, ensuring code coverage, and collaboration.

Required Qualifications

  • U.S. citizen eligible for (or already possessing) DoD Secret clearance.
  • Associate's degree in computer science, IT, mathematics, or scientific field.
  • 2+ years of programming experience in a production environment with a strong focus in .NET, Java, or C/C++ development.

Desired Qualifications

  • Experience with Azure DevOps, Blazor/Razor apps, Git repositories, and/or Visual Studio.
  • Strong understanding of microservices, unit tests, and network protocols.
  • Experience applying the principles of clean code, test-driven development, and/or Agile.
  • Experience with JavaScript.
  • Understanding of mathematics, physics, or underwater acoustics is a plus.
  • Prior military experience is a plus.

Why Join Us?

If you do not enjoy collaborating on challenging scientific problems or geeking out over an especially elegant block of code, then you may not want to join us. If, on the other hand, the idea of wrestling with algorithms alongside smart, curious engineers - until the "aha" moment arrives and a solution presents itself - is your idea of a good time, then let's get acquainted!

Additional Information

Candidates must be willing to submit to a background check prior to employment.

Physical requirements for this position include the ability to lift 25 pounds regularly, the ability to move safely in confined spaces, the ability to wear personal protective gear correctly when needed, the ability to go onsite to company and customer worksites, the ability to remain seated for extended periods of time, the ability to use a computer keyboard, and the ability to see and respond to dangerous situations when needed.

Sentient Digital, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.