Automation Specialist

Job Category: IT/Software Development Company: PracticeWorks, Inc. Reference Code: 10983 Automation Specialist General Summary: The Quality Assurance Automation Specialist will be responsible for the creation and maintenance of automated regression tests for desktop applications written in a variety of programming languages.  This role includes working closely with the existing QA teams to improve test case quality.   Seeking to fill two positions Responsibilities:  Develop and maintain automated test scripts using available tools for our suite of desktop applications.  Regularly run automated tests on any pertinent products.  Revise scripts as needed to ensure proper test coverage, execution and reduction of false-fails. Report any discovered issues/defects in a detail using the defect tracking tools available. Create and maintain regression data sets used to develop tests. Define, create, and document common functions that will be used by Regression and Functional automated test scripts.  Maintain and revise these functions to accommodate all testing needs. Evaluate and improve approaches to testing strategies and script development. Conduct technical research required to effectively design test plans/scenarios, generate test cases, create test data and define expected test results. Create/write test plans and mentor other QA team members in the creation of thorough, high quality test plans for multiple desktop applications.  Execute test scripts for the products under development and report results in test and issue management tools. Assist in evaluation, implementation, and maintenance of test management tools for test planning, execution and metrics tracking. Assist in definition of a repeatable and efficient regression testing process, including the creation and maintenance of automated regression test suites for applications under test using off-the-shelf components and in-house tools.  Implement appropriate defect management and test tracking metrics to track projects during development and post release. Develop and maintain test data and databases to be used for functional and regression testing efforts. Develop and maintain up to date technical knowledge related to computers, computer technology, and software testing practices through regular research/study. Develop and maintain intimate technical knowledge about the inner workings of in-house products, utilities and tools. Communicate with management regarding project discoveries and status. Provide impact assessments on schedules and resource allocations related to discoveries Assist senior/designated support personnel in resolving escalated issues. Participate in product demonstrations for Support, Documentation, and Training as need for each update. Maintain adherence to project schedules. Assist with evaluation, procurement, development and implementation of appropriate testing tools. Assist in maintenance and enhancement of defect-tracking software to capture appropriate test metrics. Undertakes other tasks as required to meet operational demand and product development needs. May represent Quality Assurance at key departmental and company meetings. Travel required as needed to complete essential duties and responsibilities. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required  Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, Information Systems or equivalent experience. Continued education/training in the areas of software testing, QA and software development. Three (3) years software testing experience testing client server and/or web-based applications using a structured testing methodology. Good understanding of Quality Assurance process and practices. Experience (2 or more years) working with and implementing automated testing tools, preferably Mercury Interactive products and/or experience with VB Script. Experience with SQL and other relational database management tools. Writing and executing TSQL. Proven use of defect, test management and defect tracking tools (StarTeam, Team Track, Test Director/QualityCenter) along with configuration management tools (Visual Source Safe, StarTeam). Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills, with aptitude for learning and creativity. Individual must be highly detail oriented. Ability to adapt to changing priorities Individual must be self-managing, self-motivated and highly energetic. Excellent interpersonal skills. Excellent organizational, oral and written communication skills.  Good technical writing skills.  We are proud to be an EEO/AA employer M/F/D/V. We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing. PracticeWorks is proud to be an EEO/AA employer MF/F/D/V