1

Test Automation Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Automation (POS) Tester

Chicago, IL · On-site

$47.50 - $62.50/hr

At least 4 years of experience in test automation using Selenium * At least 4 years of experience in test execution analysis & reporting . * Expertise in developing Automation framework * Strong ...

Design robust, scalable, and reusable test automation frameworks * Collaborate with QA, development, and product teams to understand requirements and translate them into test cases * Execute ...

IT Software Engineer 4 Senior SDET

Chicago, IL · On-site

$113K - $147K/yr

The role focuses on Java-based test automation, API testing, BDD frameworks, performance testing, CI/CD, and end-to-end integration testing while providing technical guidance and mentoring to ...

Showing results 21-40

Test Automation information

What is test automation?

Test automation is the use of software tools and scripts to automatically execute tests on software applications, reducing the need for manual testing. This approach helps increase test coverage, speed up the testing process, and improve the accuracy and reliability of results. Automated tests can be run repeatedly and are especially useful for regression, performance, and load testing. Test automation is commonly used in agile and DevOps environments to ensure continuous delivery and integration.

What is the difference between Test Automation vs QA Tester?

AspectTest AutomationQA Tester
Primary RoleDesigns, develops, and maintains automated testing scripts and frameworksPerforms manual testing, identifies bugs, and ensures product quality
Skills & CertificationsKnowledge of scripting languages, automation tools, and testing frameworksUnderstanding of testing methodologies, attention to detail, and basic testing certifications
Work EnvironmentTypically works with automation tools in a software development settingConducts manual tests in various testing phases
Industry UsageCommon in Agile and DevOps environments for continuous testingUsed across industries for manual quality assurance processes

While Test Automation focuses on creating automated tests to improve efficiency, QA Testers perform manual testing to identify issues. Both roles are essential for ensuring software quality but differ in approach and skill set.

Is test automation a good career?

Test automation is a viable career path for those interested in quality assurance and software development, involving skills in scripting, testing tools, and programming languages like Java or Python. It offers opportunities for growth, specialization, and working in various industries, with demand increasing as companies prioritize automated testing to improve efficiency.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a test automation engineer?

To thrive as a Test Automation Engineer, you need a solid understanding of software testing principles, programming languages (such as Java, Python, or C#), and experience with automated testing frameworks, often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with tools like Selenium, Jenkins, and version control systems, as well as ISTQB certification, is highly beneficial. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help you collaborate with development teams and ensure comprehensive test coverage. These skills are crucial for improving software quality, accelerating release cycles, and reducing manual testing effort.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in test automation roles, and how can they be overcome?

Test Automation professionals often encounter challenges such as maintaining test scripts when applications change, ensuring test coverage across different platforms, and integrating automated tests into CI/CD pipelines. To address these, it's important to write modular, reusable test scripts, stay updated with application changes, and collaborate closely with developers and DevOps teams. Utilizing robust testing frameworks and continuous learning can also help professionals adapt to evolving technologies and requirements.
Infographic showing various Test Automation job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution.

Senior SDET Automation Engineer

Apex Informatics

Chicago, IL • On-site

$58/hr

Contractor

Posted 3 days ago

New


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.