Manual Software Test Engineer

About the role 

Lightcast are a life-science startup developing a unique platform for massively parallel processing of single cell assay operations that can revolutionise conventional drug discovery workflows. 

We are looking for a manual software tester to join our growing software and integration team helping ensure that both the embedded hardware and desktop software is tested effectively and efficiently. 

This is a rich and varied role in a maturing test function that will analyse work items to identify the applicable tests in functional and non-functional areas. Executing scripted and exploratory tests on both emulated hardware and real pre-production units of tests ensure   coverage via integration testing and customer-like scenarios coverage. 

The role gives the opportunity to cover multiple technologies and test techniques whilst liaising with colleagues to improve the quality and testability of the products. The technology is varied, and includes novel hardware control, machine-learning, complex image analysis and a rich set of visualisation applications. 

Development is Agile, with frequent releases and valuing technical excellence including development of a digital twin of the platform.  This is a multi-disciplinary environment, working alongside our manufacturing, engineering and biology teams to identify areas of risk and focus.   

Your responsibilities will include 

• Identifying test requirements for applications that allow scientists to design and execute complex experiments, whist capturing and analysing the resulting data 
• Actively contributing the test perspective within meetings to improve the testability of the solutions 
• Involvement in requirements clarification, ensuring complex concepts are understood and translated into well-tested, high-quality code 
• Test planning and analysis of the new features so that test coverage is maintained and improved  
• Clear identification and triage of issues found and ensuring all information is included in any defect reports 
• Collaborating within a multi-disciplinary organisation covering engineering, electronics and biology, using an Agile process to ensure key deliverables are met to time and quality 
• Application of multiple test techniques (Black box, White box, and Non-functional) to improve the reliability and robustness of the software, both embedded and desktop 
• Producing the test documentation to ensure reporting and improvement active have evidence  

We would expect you to have: 

• Minimum 3 years’ experience of testing embedded software and/or hardware solutions 
• Familiarity with Agile development concepts and processes 
• Experience of both scripted and exploratory testing  
• Thorough understanding of test techniques and risk analysis 
• Good experience with TestRail and JIRA 
• Ability to communicate effectively with other teams across various disciplines 
• Ability to adapt and adjust the test approach  

It would be advantageous for you to have: 

• Technical knowledge of databases, data storage and logging 
• Knowledge of software for image processing / machine vision 
• Scientific computing knowledge and a strong mathematical background 
• Life Sciences background 
• Automation testing knowledge, Python and C# 

We offer a generous benefits package including:   

• 26 days holiday, plus Public Holidays 
• Flexible working hours 
• Pension contribution matched up to 7% 
• Private medical insurance 
• Income protection 
• Life insurance 
• Subsidized gym membership and weekly cross fit sessions 
• Access to Cycle to Work and Technology schemes 
• Enhanced family leave policies