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Software Test Automation Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Test Automation Engineer

Chicago, IL

$47.50 - $62.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

In this role, you will leverage your expertise in automated testing frameworks, software quality ... Collaborate with the other Test Automation Engineers to translate strategic automation objectives ...

Test Automation Engineer

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$45.25 - $59.75/hr

Experience in Test Automation, Digital SAP Analytics Cloud, Commercial Insurance Competencies: Commercial Insurance, Digital: SAP Analytics Cloud, Test Automation Experience (Years): 6-8 Essential ...

Required Qualifications • Experience as a QA Automation Engineer, SDET, or Automation Engineer ... • Strong proficiency in TypeScript. • Hands-on experience with Playwright. • Experience ...

Test Automation Engineer, Software Automation Engineer, Quality Automation Engineer, Automation Test Engineer, Automation Developer, Software Development Engineer in Test Base Salary: $80,000 - $100 ...

Automation Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Test Automation Engineer, Software Automation Engineer, Quality Automation Engineer, Automation Test Engineer, Automation Developer, Software Development Engineer in Test Base Salary: $80,000 - $100 ...

Principal QA Automation Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$121K - $151K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

... in software quality assurance, test automation, and QA strategy development in QA Automation Engineer, Sr. QA Automation Engineer, Lead QA Automation Engineer, or relevant position. This position ...

Principal QA Automation Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$121K - $151K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

... in software quality assurance, test automation, and QA strategy development in QA Automation Engineer, Sr. QA Automation Engineer, Lead QA Automation Engineer, or relevant position. This position ...

Test Automation

Chicago, IL · On-site

$47.50 - $62.75/hr

... • Work with engineers and product managers to create, implement, and seek to improve QA ... software by analyzing data and business flows as well as integrated components • Perform ...

Software Test Engineer

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$88K - $132K/yr

The Software Test Engineer at CNH Industrial America LLC in Oak Brook, IL will utilize Hardware-In-the-Loop (HIL) testing equipment along with automation tools to effectively perform test execution ...

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Showing results 1-20

Software Test Automation Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$11

$52

$77

How much do software test automation engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for software test automation engineer in Chicago, IL is $52.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45.58 and $60.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Software Test Automation Engineer vs QA Automation Tester?

AspectSoftware Test Automation EngineerQA Automation Tester
CredentialsBachelor's in CS or related field, certifications like ISTQB, automation tools knowledgeSimilar credentials, focus on testing certifications and automation skills
Work EnvironmentDevelops and maintains automation frameworks, collaborates with development teamsExecutes automated tests, reports bugs, ensures quality standards
Industry UsageUsed across software development companies, tech firms, and QA teamsCommonly found in QA departments within various industries

While both roles focus on automation testing, the Software Test Automation Engineer typically designs and develops automation frameworks and tools, whereas the QA Automation Tester primarily executes automated test cases and reports issues. The engineer's role is more technical and development-oriented, while the tester's role emphasizes test execution and quality assurance.

What is a software test automation engineer?

Software Test Automation Engineers are professionals responsible for designing, developing, and executing automated tests to ensure the quality and functionality of software applications. They use specialized tools and scripts to automate repetitive testing tasks, identify bugs, and improve the efficiency of the software development process. Their work helps teams deliver reliable software more quickly and with fewer manual errors.

What are some common challenges faced by software test automation engineers, and how can they be addressed?

Software Test Automation Engineers often encounter challenges such as maintaining test scripts amid frequent code changes, ensuring test coverage for new features, and dealing with flaky or unreliable tests. These can be addressed by regularly updating automated tests alongside development, implementing robust test design patterns, and collaborating closely with developers to understand code changes. Additionally, effective use of version control and continuous integration can help teams quickly identify and resolve automation issues, making the testing process more reliable and efficient.

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

To thrive as a Software Test Automation Engineer, you need a strong understanding of software testing principles, programming skills (often in languages such as Java, Python, or JavaScript), and a background in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with test automation frameworks (like Selenium, Cypress, or Appium), CI/CD systems, and relevant certifications such as ISTQB are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are essential soft skills in this role. These skills are crucial for ensuring software quality, streamlining development processes, and facilitating collaboration between development and QA teams.

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Software Test Automation Engineer jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Software Test Automation Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Software Test Automation Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,958 per year, or $52.9 per hour.

Senior SDET Automation Engineer

Apex Informatics

Chicago, IL • On-site

$58/hr

Contractor

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Senior SDET Automation Engineer
Client: Caterpillar
Location: Chicago, IL (540 W. Madison St, Chicago, IL 60661)
Duration: 12+ Months Contract
Pay Rate: Up to $58/hr on W2
Interview Process: 2 Rounds (Initial Phone Screen followed by an In-Person Interview)
Job Summary
We are seeking an experienced Senior SDET Automation Engineer with 10+ years of experience in software test automation. The ideal candidate will have strong expertise in Java-based automation frameworks, API testing, and modern automation tools. This is a hybrid opportunity with Caterpillar, and candidates must be local to Illinois and available for an in-person interview.
Required Skills
  • 10+ years of experience as an SDET, QA Automation Engineer, or Automation Test Engineer.
  • Strong hands-on experience with Java.
  • Experience with Karate DSL for API and automation testing.
  • Hands-on experience with Cucumber.
  • Strong background in test automation and automation framework development.
  • Experience with API testing and automated test execution.
  • Excellent analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.

Preferred Skills
  • Experience with AWS (Amazon Web Services).
  • Experience working in Agile/Scrum environments.
  • Knowledge of CI/CD pipelines and automation best practices.

Key Responsibilities
  • Design, develop, and maintain automated test frameworks and test scripts.
  • Build and execute API and UI automation test suites using Java, Karate, and Cucumber.
  • Collaborate with developers, product owners, and QA teams to ensure high-quality software delivery.
  • Identify, document, and track software defects.
  • Participate in sprint planning, code reviews, and Agile ceremonies.
  • Continuously improve automation coverage and testing processes.

Note: Only candidates who are local to Illinois and willing to attend an in-person interview will be considered.