We are seeking an experienced
Senior Software Test Engineer to help ensure the quality, reliability, and usability of software across Element's sequencing ecosystem. In this hands-on role, you will independently own verification of complex features and workflows spanning instrument software, firmware, hardware, cloud services, and data-analysis interfaces. You will partner with cross-functional teams to translate requirements, user needs, and product risks into clear test strategies and objective evidence. The ideal candidate is passionate about building robust tools for scientists and brings a strong background in software and systems testing, integration troubleshooting, and regulated product development. This role will report to the Senior Manager, Software Test Engineering and is expected to be a San Diego based, daily on-site role.
If you possess the following and want to make a meaningful impact, we invite you to explore this role.
Essential Functions and Responsibilities:- Independently design, document, and execute verification activities for complex software features and end-to-end workflows used with Element sequencing instruments
- Translate user needs, product requirements, system architecture, and risk controls into traceable test strategies, plans, cases, protocols, and reports
- Perform hands-on functional, integration, regression, and exploratory testing across instrument software, firmware, hardware, cloud services, and data-analysis interfaces
- Configure and maintain representative test environments, including control of software, firmware, hardware, and test-data configurations
- Isolate and troubleshoot defects using logs, command-line tools, database queries, and reproducible test evidence; clearly communicate severity, impact, and risk
- Collaborate with software, systems, hardware, assay, chemistry, product, UX, and quality partners to evaluate coverage, resolve integration issues, and improve the end-user experience
- Create accurate, review-ready test documentation in accordance with Element's software development lifecycle and applicable design-control processes
- Identify high-value automation opportunities and contribute to maintainable automated tests and supporting tools as products and interfaces mature
- Communicate test status, quality risks, and recommendations to project leads and stakeholders, and share technical knowledge with less-experienced team members
Education and Experience:- Bachelor's degree in computer science, software engineering, bioengineering, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience
- Typically 3-5 years of hands-on software or systems test experience; experience with life-science, medical-device, or laboratory-instrumentation products is strongly preferred
- Demonstrated ability to derive test coverage from requirements and user stories and to produce clear, traceable test plans, cases, protocols, defect reports, and test reports
- Experience testing interfaces among software, embedded systems, firmware, hardware, cloud services, and data-analysis applications
- Proficiency with Linux and command-line tools, log analysis, and SQL or NoSQL databases; scripting or test-automation experience (for example, Python or TypeScript) is preferred
- Experience working within a regulated software development lifecycle and quality system; working knowledge of FDA 21 CFR Part 820, IEC 62304, and ISO 13485 is preferred
- Understanding of product risk management and root-cause analysis; familiarity with ISO 14971 is preferred.
- Knowledge of DNA sequencing workflows or genomics applications is preferred
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, written, and verbal communication skills, with the ability to manage priorities and work effectively across disciplines
Physical Requirements: - Ability to perform computer-based work and remain in a stationary position for extended periods, with or without reasonable accommodation
- Ability to move between office and laboratory work areas and operate benchtop laboratory instrumentation, with or without reasonable accommodation
- Ability to follow laboratory safety procedures and use required personal protective equipment
Location: Travel: Job Type:Base Compensation Pay Range:In addition to the base compensation noted above, you will be eligible for stock options, a discretionary annual bonus, no-cost health insurance plans, a 401(k) with company match, and flexible paid time off.
Please note: Base compensation will depend on multiple factors, including geographic location, qualifications, and experience.
