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Test Automation Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Network Test Automation Engineer

Foster City, CA · On-site

$53.50 - $70.75/hr

Network Test Automation Engineer - Ethernet Systems DV #309 Location: Foster City, CA || 5 days ... Configure and manage VLAN (802.1Q) topologies across bench and HIL environments. * Validate ...

Python Test Automation Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$56.75 - $75/hr

... environments Manage software version control processes using Git to ensure code integrity ... automation fixtures and integrating them into test frameworks, using Python Expertise in software ...

Python Test Automation Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$49.50 - $65.50/hr

... environments Manage software version control processes using Git to ensure code integrity ... automation fixtures and their integration into test frameworks, with Python Expertise in software ...

Photonics Test Automation Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$54 - $71.25/hr

This is a test automation and hardware/software integration role, not an optical characterization ... Implement test sequencing, parameterization, configuration management, automated calibration ...

This is a test automation and hardware/software integration role, not an optical characterization ... Implement test sequencing, parameterization, configuration management, automated calibration ...

... wealth management, and insurance sectors. If you're passionate about AI and eager to make a ... Experience with CI/CD integration and test optimization. * Experience building UI automation ...

Showing results 21-40

Test Automation Manager information

See California salary details

$30.6K

$115.1K

$167.3K

How much do test automation manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for test automation manager in California is $115,080.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,300.00 and $137,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a test automation manager?

A Test Automation Manager is a professional responsible for overseeing the design, implementation, and maintenance of automated testing processes within a software development team. They lead a team of test automation engineers, develop testing strategies, and ensure that automation tools and frameworks are effectively utilized to improve software quality and efficiency. Their role often includes selecting appropriate automation technologies, managing test schedules, and collaborating with other teams to integrate testing into the development lifecycle. Test Automation Managers play a critical role in ensuring that software products are reliable, efficient, and delivered on time.

How does a test automation manager typically collaborate with development and QA teams to ensure high-quality software releases?

A Test Automation Manager works closely with both development and QA teams to integrate automated testing into the software development lifecycle. They coordinate with developers to understand new features and potential testing challenges, ensuring automation scripts are aligned with current code changes. Regular meetings and effective communication are crucial for addressing defects, updating test cases, and maintaining robust test coverage. By fostering a collaborative environment, the Test Automation Manager helps deliver reliable software releases while continually improving testing processes.

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

To thrive as a Test Automation Manager, you need expertise in software testing methodologies, automation frameworks, and a solid understanding of programming languages such as Java, Python, or C#, supported by a relevant degree or certifications like ISTQB. Familiarity with tools like Selenium, Jenkins, JIRA, and continuous integration systems is typically required. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help you effectively manage teams and collaborate across departments. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring efficient, high-quality software delivery and successful automation initiatives.

What is the difference between Test Automation Manager vs Test Engineer?

AspectTest Automation ManagerTest Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor’s degree in computer science or related field; certifications like ISTQB or CSTE are commonUsually holds a bachelor’s degree in computer science or related field; ISTQB certification is often preferred
Work EnvironmentLeads automation teams, manages testing strategies, and oversees automation frameworksPerforms manual and automated testing, writes test cases, and executes tests
Industry UsageUsed across software development, QA teams, and automation projectsCommonly found in QA teams, software development, and testing projects

The Test Automation Manager focuses on leading automation efforts and managing testing teams, while the Test Engineer executes testing tasks and develops test cases. Both roles require similar certifications and work within the same industry environments, but their responsibilities differ in scope and leadership level.

What do test automation managers get paid?

Test automation managers typically earn a salary ranging from $90,000 to $140,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. They often have skills in scripting, testing tools, and team management, which can influence compensation levels.

What are popular job titles related to Test Automation Manager jobs in California?

For Test Automation Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Test Automation Manager jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Test Automation Manager jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Test Automation Manager jobs?

Cities in California with the most Test Automation Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Test Automation Manager job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $115,080 per year, or $55.3 per hour.

Manager, Software Test & Autonomation (R5461)

San Diego, CA • On-site

Shield AI
Software Development • 11 - 50 employees

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its products include Hivemind autonomy software, V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft, and Aechelon simulation and synthetic reality technologies. With offices and facilities across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, Shield AI's technology actively supports operations worldwide. For more information, visit www.shield.ai. Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and YouTube.
Job Description:
Shield AI's Software Test & Automation Team is responsible for developing the verification, validation, and automation capabilities that enable rapid delivery of Hivemind autonomy across the Expeditionary and Emerging Operations portfolio. The team provides objective evidence of software quality, reliability, and mission readiness by developing scalable automation frameworks, repeatable validation environments, and software readiness assessments spanning Software-in-the-Loop (SIL), Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL), Vehicle-in-the-Loop (VIL), and operational test environments.
As the Software Test & Automation Manager, you will lead a multidisciplinary engineering team responsible for defining verification strategies, building automated validation capabilities, and establishing software readiness standards across a diverse portfolio that includes XBAT, VBAT, Weapons, Space, Maritime, and other emerging autonomy programs. You will partner closely with software engineering, systems engineering, platform integration, digital infrastructure, and flight test organizations to ensure autonomy capabilities are thoroughly validated and ready for operational deployment.
This role is ideal for a technical leader who enjoys building high-performing engineering teams, developing scalable automation strategies, and improving software quality through modern verification and continuous validation practices.
What you'll do:
  • Lead and grow a team of Software Test & Automation Engineers supporting Expeditionary and Emerging Operations.
  • Define verification and validation strategies spanning simulation, SIL, HIL, VIL, and operational test environments.
  • Drive the development of automated regression testing, validation frameworks, and test infrastructure that improve software quality and engineering velocity.
  • Establish software readiness criteria, quality gates, and objective performance metrics used to assess autonomy maturity throughout the development lifecycle.
  • Partner with Digital Infrastructure to integrate automated validation into CI/CD pipelines and expand continuous testing capabilities.
  • Develop common automation frameworks, reusable test assets, and validation methodologies across multiple autonomy programs.
  • Coordinate software readiness activities with software engineering, systems engineering, platform integration, and flight test teams.
  • Develop technical roadmaps, staffing plans, and engineering priorities aligned with organizational objectives.
  • Mentor engineers, conduct performance reviews, recruit top talent, and foster technical excellence across the organization.
  • Present software readiness assessments, technical risks, and validation status to program leadership, Chief Engineers, and executive stakeholders.

Required qualifications:
  • Lead and grow a team of Software Test & Automation Engineers supporting Expeditionary and Emerging Operations.
  • Define verification and validation strategies spanning simulation, SIL, HIL, VIL, and operational test environments.
  • Drive the development of automated regression testing, validation frameworks, and test infrastructure that improve software quality and engineering velocity.
  • Establish software readiness criteria, quality gates, and objective performance metrics used to assess autonomy maturity throughout the development lifecycle.
  • Partner with Digital Infrastructure to integrate automated validation into CI/CD pipelines and expand continuous testing capabilities.
  • Develop common automation frameworks, reusable test assets, and validation methodologies across multiple autonomy programs.
  • Coordinate software readiness activities with software engineering, systems engineering, platform integration, and flight test teams.
  • Develop technical roadmaps, staffing plans, and engineering priorities aligned with organizational objectives.
  • Mentor engineers, conduct performance reviews, recruit top talent, and foster technical excellence across the organization.
  • Present software readiness assessments, technical risks, and validation status to program leadership, Chief Engineers, and executive stakeholders.

Preferred qualifications:
  • Experience supporting autonomous systems, robotics, or unmanned platforms.
  • Experience with software quality tools such as SonarQube.
  • Experience with ROS.
  • Experience developing software readiness metrics, dashboards, and executive reporting.
  • Experience supporting DoD programs and customer demonstrations.

#LI-LD1
#LD
Full-time regular employee offer package:
Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity
Temporary employee offer package:
Pay within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)
Salary compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to skill set, level of experience, licenses and certifications, and specific work location. All offers are contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check. Military fellows and part-time employees are not eligible for benefits. Please speak to your talent acquisition representative for more information.
Shield AI is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know.