Explore Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) roles that combine software engineering and quality assurance. SDETs design and build automated testing systems, strengthen product reliability, and help development teams deliver high-quality software. Ladders features vetted professional opportunities with salaries of $100,000 or more, including roles across software, technology, and product organizations.
SDETs create and maintain automated test frameworks, write code to validate applications, and integrate testing into continuous integration and delivery workflows. They may test APIs, web and mobile applications, distributed systems, and cloud services. The role often includes identifying defects, analyzing test results, collaborating with developers, and improving quality practices throughout the software development lifecycle.
Employers commonly seek experience with programming languages such as Java, Python, JavaScript, or C#, along with test automation tools and frameworks. Familiarity with API testing, databases, version control, CI/CD pipelines, cloud platforms, and Agile development can also be valuable. Strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills help SDETs turn product requirements into reliable test strategies.
SDET careers can progress into senior or staff engineering roles, test automation leadership, quality engineering management, or broader software engineering positions. Some professionals specialize in performance, security, mobile, or platform testing. Career opportunities and requirements vary by employer, product, and level of responsibility.
Browse vetted SDET and software quality engineering opportunities on Ladders. Discover professional roles with salaries of $100,000 or more, and compare positions based on responsibilities, required skills, and career level.
Senior Systems Development Engineer, Amazon Dedicated Cloud (ADC)
$151K - $204K *
Innovate cloud computing solutions for U.S. Government agencies, tackling complex distributed systems. Lead engineering efforts to enhance operational excellence and automate processes, ensuring top-t...
1 week ago
Sr Software Development Engineer - Core Platform Integration
$176K - $264K *
Advance significant cloud integration initiatives by leading migrations of acquired services onto a unified, cloud-agnostic platform. Collaborate with engineering teams to analyze infrastructure needs...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
Software Engineer 3 (IDN - 198)
$110K - $130K *
Engineer innovative software solutions by developing, sustaining, and troubleshooting applications. Collaborate on integration with COTS and FOSS products while leveraging modern technologies to enhan...
1 week ago
Test & Instrumentation Development Engineer
$130K - $155K *
Unlock potential by designing and deploying comprehensive test solutions for next-generation products. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop methodologies and instrumentation for system c...
3 days ago
$90K - $108K *
Join a dynamic team to enhance aerospace testing processes through innovative design and maintenance of test systems. Collaborate across disciplines to ensure reliability and efficiency in equipment...
3 weeks ago
$90K - $108K *
Elevate aerospace testing capabilities by designing, maintaining, and optimizing test systems. Collaborate across teams to ensure reliability and efficiency in complex mechanical and electronic system...
3 weeks ago
Software Development Engineer II
$119K - $166K *
Partner with us to design and deliver scalable backend services that enhance travel experiences. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to create reliable solutions, ensuring operational excellence a...
1 week ago
$120K - $265K *
Join a team that's redefining software testing and quality assurance for critical systems. Lead strategic initiatives, establish testing protocols, and ensure compliance across a global enterprise inf...
1 week ago
Hardware Test and Automation Engineer I
$77K - $116K *
Empower innovation by automating hardware testing and integration for flight systems. Collaborate with engineering teams to enhance development workflows and ensure rapid deployment of cutting-edge te...
3 days ago
Lead Software Engineer - SIIMS Release & Test Automation (Hybrid)
$110K - $130K *
Accelerate progress at the forefront of software engineering, leading cross-functional teams to design and deliver innovative solutions for inventory management on web and mobile platforms, enhancing...
5 days ago
$160K - $200K *
Lead and empower a team of software engineers to innovate and deliver impactful solutions, driving technical excellence and fostering a culture of growth and collaboration to enhance user experiences...
1 week ago
Software Development Engineer, Aurora Control Plane
$143K - $194K *
Engage with a talented team to design robust, scalable database systems. Innovate and mentor while driving technology advancements in a fast-paced environment focused on reliability and performance fo...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
Systems Development Engineer, Managed Operations (MO); AWS Operations Management (AWSOM) Team
$129K - $174K *
Join a team that's innovating solutions for global customers by developing and managing advanced systems. Collaborate across diverse projects to enhance reliability, performance, and automation in a d...
1 week ago
$102K - $179K *
Develop and maintain innovative software solutions that drive business objectives. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to tackle complex challenges, mentor engineers, and influence technical direc...
2 weeks ago
$102K - $179K *
Unlock potential by designing and developing innovative software solutions that drive business objectives. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to tackle complex challenges and mentor engineers in...
2 weeks ago
Senior QA Automation Engineer (Platform)
$110K - $130K *
Empower engineering teams by building robust test automation solutions that enhance productivity. Design and own comprehensive frameworks that streamline workflows, and collaborate with product teams...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
Senior Software Engineer, Test
$155K - $185K *
Champion automated testing excellence by building robust frameworks and collaborating with engineering teams. Drive efficiency in continuous delivery, ensuring seamless integration and observability f...
4 weeks ago
$160K - $190K *
Lead the technical vision for large-scale systems software, architecting solutions that enhance performance, reliability, and scalability across distributed infrastructure serving billions of users. D...
3 days ago
System Test Engineer Specialist
$80K - $120K *
Support integrated technical and analytical efforts in systems engineering, ensuring comprehensive requirements management and documentation for effective test evaluations and risk assessments in a co...
6 days ago
System Test Engineer Specialist
$80K - $95K *
Empower cross-functional teams by providing essential technical and analytical support for system testing and requirements management, ensuring seamless integration and compliance with DoD standards w...
6 days ago
$118K - $219K *
Champion the development of AI-driven legal software, leading a team to innovate and deliver scalable solutions. Drive technical strategy, mentor engineers, and ensure operational excellence in a fast...
2 days ago
$118K - $219K *
Lead the charge in architecting innovative AI-driven legal solutions, guiding a talented engineering team to deliver scalable, production-ready products while fostering a culture of experimentation an...
2 days ago
$110K - $130K *
Contribute to innovative automotive software solutions by leveraging expertise in embedded systems, cloud technologies, and API design. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance vehicle integ...
1 week ago
$148K - $232K *
Advance your career by developing cutting-edge mapping algorithms for L4 self-driving vehicles. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance real-time systems and drive innovation in machine lea...
6 days ago
Senior Software Engineer, Digital Engineering
$160K - $225K *
Empower innovation as a Senior Software Engineer, driving full-stack development of in-house applications that enhance product and operations data management. Collaborate closely with users to create...
2 weeks ago
What is a Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET)?
An SDET is a software engineering professional who builds testing tools, automated test systems, and quality processes to help ensure software works reliably.
What does an SDET do day to day?
Typical work includes writing automated tests, developing test frameworks, validating APIs and applications, investigating defects, and collaborating with software teams to improve product quality.
What skills are commonly required for SDET jobs?
Requirements often include programming ability, test automation experience, API testing, CI/CD knowledge, and familiarity with software development practices. Specific tools and qualifications vary by role.
Are SDET jobs available with salaries of $100,000 or more?
Yes. Compensation depends on factors such as experience, location, specialization, and employer. Ladders focuses on vetted professional jobs paying $100,000 or more.
How can I find an SDET job on Ladders?
Search Ladders for Software Development Engineer in Test, SDET, test automation, or quality engineering roles, then review each listing’s responsibilities, qualifications, and compensation details.