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Software Development Engineer Test Sdet Jobs in Virginia

Metron

Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET)

Reston, VA · On-site

$52 - $67/hr

Our Reston team is seeking a mid-level Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) to help build and mature the testing infrastructure supporting production software for simulation, optimization ...

New

Seneca Resources, LLC

Senior SDET

Vienna, VA · On-site

$65/hr

Senior Level Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) Location: Vienna, VA - 3 days a week onsite each week Openings: 4 Pay Rate: $65/hr on W2 Top Skills: Top 3 Required Skills: * Hands-on ...

Socket.dev

Principal Test Engineer (SDET)

Vienna, VA · On-site

$100 - $150/hr

The SDET will develop test automation for integration, regression, and functional testing for systems to ensure compliance with system requirements and Navy Federal business practices and policies.

NAVA Software Solutions

SDET Engineer

Merrifield, VA · On-site

NAVA Software solutions is looking for a SDET Engineer Details: SDET Engineer Location : Merrifield, VA(Hybrid) - Weekly once onsite Duration: 12 Months Top 3 Required Skills: * Hands-on development ...

System One

Sr SDET

Reston, VA · On-site

$115K - $149K/yr

Senior SDET (Automation Testing) | Hybrid | Reston, VA We are seeking a Senior Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) with strong expertise in UI, Web Services, and Mobile Test Automation to ...

System One

Sr SDET

Reston, VA · On-site

$116K - $151K/yr

Senior SDET (Automation Testing) | Hybrid | Reston, VA We are seeking a Senior Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) with strong expertise in UI, Web Services, and Mobile Test Automation to ...

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Software Development Engineer Test Sdet information

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

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for software development engineer test sdet in Virginia is $54.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47.64 and $61.49 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a software development engineer test SDET?

A Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) is a professional who combines the skills of a software developer and a tester. SDETs are responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining automated testing frameworks and tools to ensure the quality and functionality of software products. They work closely with development teams to identify test cases, create automation scripts, and sometimes contribute to the development of the application itself. SDETs play a critical role in continuous integration and delivery pipelines, helping organizations achieve faster and more reliable software releases.

How does a software development engineer test SDET typically collaborate with developers and QA teams during the software development lifecycle?

As an SDET, you will work closely with both developers and QA teams throughout the software development lifecycle. This collaboration involves participating in code reviews, designing and implementing automated test frameworks, and ensuring that new features are testable and meet quality standards. SDETs often write test cases alongside developers, provide feedback on code quality, and help troubleshoot issues that arise during testing. This cross-functional teamwork not only improves product quality but also fosters a culture of continuous improvement and shared responsibility for delivering reliable software.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a software development engineer test SDET, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET), you need strong programming skills in languages like Java, Python, or C#, along with a solid understanding of software testing methodologies and computer science fundamentals. Familiarity with automation testing frameworks (such as Selenium or TestNG), CI/CD tools, and version control systems is typically required, and certifications like ISTQB can be beneficial. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are key soft skills that help in identifying issues and collaborating with development teams. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring software quality, reducing bugs, and accelerating release cycles in fast-paced development environments.

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

AspectSoftware Development Engineer Test (SDET)Software Engineer in Test (SDET)
CredentialsBachelor's in CS or related field, certifications like ISTQBBachelor's in CS or related field, certifications like ISTQB
Work EnvironmentDevelops automated tests, collaborates with developers, focuses on testing frameworksDesigns testing tools, writes automated tests, often involved in CI/CD pipelines
Industry UsageCommon in tech companies, especially in QA and testing teamsUsed interchangeably with SDET, prevalent in software development firms

Both roles focus on automation testing and quality assurance, requiring similar skills and certifications. The main difference lies in terminology preference; 'Software Development Engineer Test' and 'Software Engineer in Test' are often used interchangeably in the industry to describe professionals who develop testing frameworks and automate quality checks within software teams.

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Software Development Engineer Test Sdet jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Software Development Engineer Test Sdet job openings:

Software Development Engineer Test Sdet jobs near you

Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET)

Zetier

Arlington, VA

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET)

Zetier seeks Software Development Engineers in Test (SDET) to design, build, and maintain scalable automated testing capabilities for embedded hardware, cyber platforms, and operational software systems. This role focuses on developing robust test infrastructure, improving product reliability, and enabling continuous validation across hardware and software solutions. Candidates will develop automated validation frameworks, integrate testing into CI/CD pipelines, and support verification activities spanning low-level firmware, networking systems, and mission-driven software capabilities. Work includes functional, integration, regression, and hardware-in-the-loop testing aligned with quality, operational effectiveness, and compliance objectives.

Required:

  • 5+ years experience in software development or test engineering
  • Strong programming experience in Python, C/C++, and/or Rust
  • Experience deploying automated test frameworks (e.g. pytest, Robot)
  • Experience testing embedded or Linux-based systems platforms
  • Hands-on experience integrating testing into CI/CD pipelines
  • Familiar debugging complex HW/SW system interactions
  • Comfortable writing clear technical documentation (e.g. test reports)
  • Strong communication skills across engineering and customer teams
  • Active U.S. security clearance

Desired:

  • Experience with hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) and device automation
  • Experience testing embedded systems, networking devices, or mobile
  • Experience with containerization (e.g. Docker, Kubernetes, QEMU)
  • Familiar with network/protocol validation (e.g. Wireshark, Scapy)
  • Experience with RF or wireless systems (e.g. 802.11ac, Zigbee, SDR)
  • Experience testing firmware, drivers, and low-level code/services
  • Exposure to cybersecurity, vulnerability research, or pentest teams
  • Experience with observability, telemetry, or reliability engineering


Positions available in Arlington, VA.

Zetier is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status or any other basis protected by law. All employment is decided on the basis of merit, qualifications, and business need.

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