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Software Test Lead Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Software Automation Test Lead

Arlington, VA

$54.75 - $74.50/hr

ASRC Federal Technology Solutions, LLC is actively seeking a Software Automation Test Lead with API emphasis to join our team and support development efforts for the Drug Enforcement Administration ...

Software Automation Test Lead

Merrifield, VA

$47.50 - $64.50/hr

ASRC Federal Technology Solutions, LLC is actively seeking a Software Automation Test Lead with API emphasis to join our team and support development efforts for the Drug Enforcement Administration ...

Duration: Long Term Contract Position Require a Secret Clearance The Quality Assurance Test Lead is responsible for overseeing and driving all test activities across the software development ...

SDET

Arlington, VA · On-site

$57.50 - $74.25/hr

The ideal candidate will lead testing efforts for our investment platforms and applications, ensuring the delivery of high-quality software solutions. This role will involve collaboration with cross ...

Prepare and deliver regular test status updates to the Test Lead. * Input test results into applicable test management tools and track execution progress. * Evaluate testing software/tools and ...

Prepare and deliver regular test status updates to the Test Lead. * Input test results into applicable test management tools and track execution progress. * Evaluate testing software/tools and ...

Test Engineering Team Lead

Mclean, VA

$48 - $65.50/hr

As a Test Engineering Team Lead , you will work with our growing DevSecOps practice as a team lead ... Working with software developers and software engineers to ensure that development follows ...

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Software Test Lead information

See Virginia salary details

$36

$46

$68

How much do software test lead jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for software test lead in Virginia is $46.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39.33 and $49.57 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a software test lead?

Software Test Leads are professionals responsible for overseeing the software testing process within a project or organization. They coordinate test activities, manage a team of testers, develop test plans, and ensure that software products meet quality standards before release. Test Leads also communicate with developers and stakeholders to report on progress, track defects, and help resolve issues. Their role is critical in delivering reliable and high-quality software products.

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

To thrive as a Software Test Lead, you need expertise in software testing methodologies, test planning, and quality assurance, typically backed by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with test management tools (such as JIRA, TestRail), automation frameworks, and certifications like ISTQB are highly valued. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help drive effective team collaboration and project delivery. These skills ensure high-quality software releases, efficient test processes, and successful coordination across development teams.

What are some common challenges software test leads face when managing testing teams, and how can they be addressed?

Software Test Leads often encounter challenges such as balancing tight project deadlines with maintaining high-quality testing standards, managing communication between cross-functional teams, and adapting to rapidly changing project requirements. To address these issues, effective prioritization, clear documentation, and fostering open communication channels are essential. Regular team meetings, encouraging collaboration, and providing ongoing training also help in overcoming obstacles and ensuring the team remains aligned with project goals.

What is the difference between Software Test Lead vs Software Tester?

AspectSoftware Test LeadSoftware Tester
ResponsibilitiesOversees testing teams, develops testing strategies, manages test planning and executionExecutes test cases, reports defects, performs manual or automated testing
Required SkillsLeadership, test management, communication, testing tools knowledgeAttention to detail, testing techniques, basic scripting or automation skills
CertificationsISTQB, CSTE, or similar testing certificationsISTQB Foundation, basic testing certifications often sufficient
Work EnvironmentTypically leads testing teams in software development projectsWorks under supervision, performs testing tasks

The Software Test Lead role involves managing testing teams and developing testing strategies, while the Software Tester focuses on executing tests and identifying defects. Both roles often require similar certifications and work within the same industry environment, but the Test Lead has additional responsibilities in leadership and planning.

Infographic showing various Software Test Lead job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,184 per year, or $46.2 per hour.

Software Test Lead

Chesapeake, VA • On-site

Engineering Services Network, Inc
51 - 200 employees

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Job Title
Software Test Lead
Location
ESN CHESAPEAKE OFFICE - VA US (Primary)
HAMPTON ROADS - CHESAPEAKE, VA 23320 US
Job Description
At ESN, we work Shoulder-to-Shoulder® with our customers.
Founded in 1995, ESN is a Small Disadvantaged Business (SDB), Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) and Veteran Owned Small Business (VOSB). ESN delivers trusted solutions that support our nation's defense. For more than two decades, we have been providing our military and government customers with mission-critical services including engineering and technical support, strategic and program management, testing and evaluation, operations support, and information technology. We are committed to proven, repeatable corporate quality management processes and are certified CMMI Maturity Level III - Services & ISO 9001:2015.
We are seeking a Software Test Lead.
Located on-site in Chesapeake, VA.
ESN is seeking an experienced Scrum Master with Automated Testing focus to support a contract with Naval Information Warfare Center (NIWC), Atlantic, in Norfolk, VA. The contract to support NIWC LANT consists of Independent Validation & Verification, Operations, Sustainment, and Installation support. The Maintenance Figure of Merit (MFOM) systems provides near real-time material-based readiness reporting to the Defense Readiness Reporting System-Navy (DRRS-N) and provides three additional primary capabilities to the Fleet including Ashore and Afloat systems. This support includes manual and automation of software testing, Scrum Master, transitioning to Cloud, management of JIRA/JAMA/Confluence, and project support.
Principal Duties/Responsibilities:
  • Works closely with the PM to implement infrastructure needs for automating IV&V, developing test harnesses, and performing Scrum Master duties across the program.
  • Works in a team to integrate systems and solutions, triage issues, and prioritize tasks as it relates to Release Roadmaps.
  • Communicates clearly with both technical and non-technical colleagues, sharing knowledge and insight for actionable items.
  • Compose and prepare documentation in accordance with applicable regulations and policies including: briefings, whitepapers, concept materials in support of customers and internal/program requirements.
  • Prepare, compile, and assemble routine correspondence and records and presentations for internal and external managers and leadership.
  • Actively collaborate with peers to achieve synergy, efficiency, and effectiveness of cross functional capabilities.
  • Lead and develop team members regarding SAFe processes and automated testing.
  • Understands infrastructure requirements necessary to implement IV&V.
  • Automates integration with patch management, configuration management, and security/reporting infrastructures.

Skills and Abilities:
  • JIRA, JAMA, Confluence, Cloud Technologies, SAFe Agile Leadership, Scrum Practices, MS Office applications, Collaboration, Quality Assurance & Software Testing practices, Defect and Release Management processes, Requirements Analysis, Management, and Documentation.

Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration, Engineering, Information Systems, Computer Science, Physics, or Network Security.

Security Clearance:
  • Applicant must hold an active Department of Defense (DoD) SECRET personnel security clearance.

Job Requirements
Clearance Requirement