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.
Staff Software Engineer - SubSystem Integration Test (SSIT)
$141K - $211K *
Design and develop embedded and cloud edge software solutions, collaborating with cross-functional teams to meet performance requirements and enhance product functionality, ensuring high-quality deliv...
5 days ago
$130K - $155K *
Elevate software engineering solutions by architecting and integrating advanced testing platforms across diverse semiconductor environments, ensuring high-quality, reliable execution and fostering tec...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
$110K - $130K *
Join a dynamic team as you champion quality across the SDLC, promoting best practices in testing. Collaborate cross-functionally to build and scale automated test suites, ensuring reliability and perf...
3 weeks ago
$95K - $115K *
Manage the design, fabrication, and operation of test infrastructures for spaceflight hardware, ensuring rigorous testing and data analysis through all development phases. Collaborate with engineers t...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
Software Development Engineer, Luna DevX
$143K - $194K *
Transform your career by driving innovative developer experiences in a dynamic team. Leverage cutting-edge technologies to enhance services and tools, while influencing product strategy and architectu...
1 week ago
$96K - $160K *
Join a team that's shaping the future of satellite technology by testing and troubleshooting integrated systems for a cutting-edge broadband network. Collaborate across engineering and operations to d...
1 week ago
Staff Software Engineer in Test (Modeling and Simulation)
$150K - $180K *
Engineer robust automated validation systems for complex Modeling & Simulation platforms, ensuring high-quality software through risk-based testing strategies and hands-on infrastructure development...
3 days ago
Software Development Engineer, Selling Partner Experience Core Services
$143K - $194K *
Unlock potential by owning end-to-end software solutions that enhance seller experiences. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to design, build, and maintain systems that simplify product listings...
1 week ago
Software Development Engineer , ADC2S
$143K - $194K *
Transform secure cloud infrastructure by designing and operating EC2 control-plane services in air-gapped regions. Collaborate with a dedicated team to enhance automation and ensure high-quality softw...
2 days ago
Sr. Software Development Engineer, Agentic AI, Velocity Labs
$168K - $227K *
Lead innovative software solutions by designing AI primitives and user services. Collaborate in a dynamic team to deliver high-quality products from concept to rollout, enhancing customer experience a...
4 days ago
$80K - $95K *
Join a team that's dedicated to enhancing software quality through comprehensive testing. You'll lead efforts in test planning, execution, and collaboration with senior management to ensure top-notch...
4 days ago
$135K - $160K *
Shape the future of collectibles data by leading API architecture and strategy. Drive high-impact projects, mentor engineers, and enhance data reliability while collaborating across teams to deliver i...
2 days ago
Software Development Engineer, Navigator
$114K - $191K *
Accelerate progress at the forefront of software development by leading complex migration initiatives. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to design, implement, and optimize solutions that drive s...
5 days ago
Software Development Engineer, Amazon Customer Service
$143K - $194K *
Drive the development of innovative AI-driven customer service solutions, collaborating with cross-functional teams to enhance technology and design. Lead the global expansion of services, ensuring hi...
1 week ago
Senior Java Test Automation Engineer
$110K - $130K *
Unlock your potential as a Senior Software Development Engineer in Test, driving quality and automation in cloud-ready platforms. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance system stability an...
2 weeks ago
Senior Java Test Automation Engineer
$120K - $140K *
Drive quality engineering excellence by designing and implementing robust test automation frameworks for cloud-ready platforms, ensuring reliability and scalability in a fast-paced, Agile environment...
2 weeks ago
Senior Java Test Automation Engineer
$110K - $130K *
Elevate your career by designing and implementing robust test automation frameworks. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance quality and efficiency in cloud-ready platforms, driving enginee...
2 weeks ago
Senior Java Test Automation Engineer
$110K - $130K *
Transform the quality engineering landscape by designing and implementing robust test automation frameworks, ensuring the reliability and scalability of cloud-ready platforms while collaborating with...
2 weeks ago
$118K - $144K *
Drive quality assurance for complex software in a dynamic environment, ensuring reliability and usability across instruments, firmware, and cloud services. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to d...
1 week ago
$90K - $105K *
Engage with Agile teams to enhance system reliability and performance through automated testing, troubleshooting, and technical support for the Remote Monitoring and Logging System. Drive process impr...
2 weeks ago
$90K - $105K *
Help us deliver exceptional engineering support for our Remote Monitoring and Logging System. Collaborate with Agile teams to enhance system reliability, execute automated tests, and ensure seamless a...
2 weeks ago
Senior Software Development Engineer
$138K - $165K *
Join a team that's shaping the future of software delivery for a regulated fintech environment. As a key player, you'll empower engineers and non-engineers alike with AI-driven tools and compliance st...
3 weeks ago
Staff Software Development Engineer
$150K - $180K *
Optimize the software delivery lifecycle by designing and building systems that enhance developer productivity, compliance, and the use of AI, ensuring robust support for all roles creating software a...
3 weeks ago
$50K - $175K *
Advance your career by leading automated testing initiatives for web and mobile applications. Collaborate with Agile teams to ensure software reliability and performance while managing system inventor...
3 weeks ago
Senior Software Quality Engineer - QGC & Tool Automation
$110K - $130K *
Drive the automation strategy for QGroundControl and related tools, enhancing test frameworks and reducing manual testing reliance. Collaborate with SQA leadership to prioritize initiatives and ensure...
2 days 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.