1

Software Test Engineer Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

Test Engineer This role focuses on supporting and improving automated test systems and ... Troubleshoot complex hardware and software issues in test systems, including test equipment ...

New

Test Engineer This role focuses on supporting and improving automated test systems and ... Troubleshoot complex hardware and software issues in test systems, including test equipment ...

New

... test engineer responsible for the test equipment in a given area. This will involve providing ... Implement changes to equipment hardware and software to realize improvements in efficiency ...

... test engineer responsible for the test equipment in a given assembly area. This will involve ... Implement changes to equipment hardware and software to realize improvements in efficiency ...

Possess proficiency in test equipment and various communication hardware and software, such as GPIB ... Supports engineering department during customer meetings, preferred. * Basic project management ...

Possess proficiency in test equipment and various communication hardware and software, such as GPIB ... Supports engineering department during customer meetings, preferred. * Basic project management ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Software Test Engineer information

See Madison, WI salary details

$10

$51

$73

How much do software test engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for software test engineer in Madison, WI is $51.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42.40 and $59.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Software Test Engineer, you need a solid understanding of software development life cycles, test methodologies, and proficiency in programming languages such as Python or Java, often supported by a degree in computer science or related fields. Familiarity with automation tools like Selenium, JUnit, or TestNG, and knowledge of bug tracking systems such as Jira are typically required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication set standout engineers apart by enabling thorough defect identification and clear reporting. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring software reliability, meeting quality standards, and facilitating smooth collaboration across development teams.

What Is a Software Test Engineer?

A software test engineer conducts quality assurance tests on software to make sure programs are functioning properly. The three types of testing strategies are black box, where the tester is not familiar with the software, white box, where the tester is aware of the software’s internal structure, and gray box, which is a combination of the two. Responsibilities in this job include running diagnostic tests with a critical mindset, assessing the functionality, and reporting the findings.

What are some common challenges faced by Software Test Engineers when working with cross-functional development teams?

Software Test Engineers often encounter challenges such as aligning testing timelines with rapid development cycles, ensuring clear communication of bugs and requirements, and adapting to evolving project priorities. Collaborating closely with developers, product managers, and UX designers requires proactive communication and flexibility, especially when dealing with ambiguous requirements or shifting deadlines. To succeed, it's important to maintain detailed documentation, participate actively in agile ceremonies, and foster a collaborative attitude to resolve issues efficiently and ensure high-quality software releases.

What are Software Test Engineers?

Software Test Engineers are professionals responsible for evaluating software applications to ensure they function correctly and meet specified requirements. They design, develop, and execute test plans and cases, identify bugs or issues, and work closely with developers to resolve them. Their goal is to maintain software quality by detecting problems early in the development process, whether through manual or automated testing methods. Software Test Engineers often use specialized tools and frameworks to streamline testing and improve product reliability.

What is the difference between Software Test Engineer vs QA Analyst?

AspectSoftware Test EngineerQA Analyst
CertificationsISTQB, CSTE, CSQAISTQB, CSTE, CSQA
Work EnvironmentDevelopment teams, testing labsQuality assurance departments, testing labs
Industry UsageSoftware companies, tech firmsSoftware companies, IT organizations
Primary FocusDesigning, executing tests, automationTest planning, process improvement, documentation

Both roles often require similar certifications and work in software testing environments within tech industries. The Software Test Engineer typically focuses on test case development, automation, and execution, while the QA Analyst emphasizes test planning, quality processes, and documentation. Understanding these distinctions helps organizations assign the right responsibilities and professionals for their testing needs.

What are the most commonly searched types of Software Test Engineer jobs in Madison, WI? The most popular types of Software Test Engineer jobs in Madison, WI are:
What are popular job titles related to Software Test Engineer jobs in Madison, WI? For Software Test Engineer jobs in Madison, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Software Test Engineer jobs in Madison, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Software Test Engineer jobs in Madison, WI are:
What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Software Test Engineer jobs? Cities near Madison, WI with the most Software Test Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Software Test Engineer job openings in Madison, WI as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Contract. Highlights an 100% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,830 per year, or $51.8 per hour.

Test Engineer

Actalent

Madison, WI

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

New


Job description

Job Title: Test Engineer

Job Description

This role focuses on supporting and improving automated test systems and manufacturing software for FDA-regulated medical devices. The test engineer develops, maintains, and enhances test solutions using LabVIEW, Python, TestStand, and related engineering tools to ensure reliable, compliant, and efficient production testing. The position plays a key role in troubleshooting complex issues, maintaining regulatory compliance, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality medical products.

Responsibilities

  • Support and enhance automated test systems and manufacturing software used in the production of FDA-regulated medical devices.
  • Develop, maintain, and improve test applications using LabVIEW, Python, TestStand, and other engineering tools.
  • Troubleshoot complex hardware and software issues in test systems, including test equipment, fixtures, and test scripts.
  • Perform detailed root cause analysis of test system failures and production issues, and implement robust corrective actions.
  • Improve test system reliability, performance, and throughput by optimizing test procedures, test code, and test equipment configurations.
  • Ensure test systems and related software comply with FDA and Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) requirements throughout the product lifecycle.
  • Maintain and update validation documentation for test systems, including protocols, reports, and supporting evidence.
  • Implement and support cybersecurity controls and data integrity standards for test systems and manufacturing software.
  • Collaborate closely with manufacturing, quality, IT, electrical, mechanical, and R&D teams to investigate production issues and develop solutions.
  • Design, develop, and refine automated diagnostic tools and advanced test automation solutions to support manufacturing and sustaining engineering.
  • Support sustaining engineering activities and manage product lifecycle issues as they relate to test systems and manufacturing test processes.
  • Work with contract manufacturers and global supply chain partners to support test system deployment, maintenance, and continuous improvement.
  • Apply Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or ISO 9001 practices to improve test processes, reduce defects, and enhance overall quality.
  • Utilize component lifecycle management tools and change control processes to manage updates to test systems, fixtures, and software.

Essential Skills

  • 3+ years of experience in test engineering, with a focus on automated test systems and manufacturing test environments.
  • 3+ years of experience with NI LabVIEW for developing and maintaining automated test applications.
  • 3+ years of experience with Python scripting, particularly for backend testing and automation.
  • Hands-on experience with test equipment, test fixtures, and test procedures in a production or regulated environment.
  • Proficiency in test development tools and programming languages such as LabVIEW, Python, TestStand, and C/C++.
  • Experience troubleshooting complex hardware and software issues in test systems and performing root cause analysis.
  • Experience supporting sustaining engineering and managing product lifecycle issues related to test systems.
  • Knowledge of FDA and GMP requirements as they apply to test systems, validation, and manufacturing software.
  • Understanding of cybersecurity controls and data integrity practices for test and manufacturing systems.
  • Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or ISO 9001 practices in a production or test environment.
  • Experience working with contract manufacturers and global supply chains to support test and manufacturing processes.
  • Knowledge of component lifecycle management tools and change control processes.
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related engineering or technical discipline.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

  • Experience designing automated test systems and fixtures, including both mechanical and electrical aspects.
  • Experience maintaining validation documentation and supporting audits related to test systems.
  • Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including manufacturing, quality, IT, electrical, mechanical, and R&D.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a focus on improving reliability and performance of test systems.
  • Exposure to advanced diagnostic tools and automation frameworks for manufacturing test environments.
  • Familiarity with global supply chain considerations and working with external manufacturing partners.
  • Interest in contributing to products that support critical healthcare applications, particularly for infants.

Work Environment

The test engineer works closely with manufacturing lines, test stations, and automated equipment, using tools such as LabVIEW, Python, TestStand, and various test instruments. The setting emphasizes adherence to documented procedures, validation requirements, and data integrity practices. The work involves regular collaboration with engineering, quality, IT, and production teams within a structured, process-driven environment focused on safety, reliability, and continuous improvement.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Madison, WI.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $60.00 - $65.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Madison,WI.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 3, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.


Actalent logo

About Actalent

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Actalent connects passion with purpose. Our scalable talent solutions and services capabilities drive value and results and provide the expertise to help our customers achieve more. Every day, our experts around the globe are making an impact. We're supporting critical initiatives in engineering and sciences that advance how companies serve the world. Actalent promotes consultant care and engagement through experiences that enable continuous development. Our people are the difference. Actalent is an operating company of Allegis Group, the global leader in talent solutions.

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hanover, MD, US

Year founded

1983

Social media