Junior Systems Engineer (Test)

📍 Job Overview

• Job Title: Junior Systems Engineer (Test)
• Company: QinetiQ
• Location: UK-multiple (Multiple LI posts)
• Job Type: On-site
• Category: Systems Engineer
• Date Posted: 2025-07-22

🚀 Role Summary

• Key Responsibilities: Conduct software and system tests, update test procedures, review work quality, and support Mission Systems goals.
• Key Skills: Attention to detail, analytical mind, software testing, systems engineering, project management, Microsoft Office, requirements management, configuration management, problem-solving, team collaboration, communication skills, flexibility, proactivity, quality assurance, research skills, safety standards knowledge.

💻 Primary Responsibilities

• 📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a proactive, detail-oriented individual with strong analytical skills and a methodical approach to work. Familiarity with software testing and systems engineering lifecycles is essential.

• 🔹 Conduct Software and System Tests:

  • Execute test cases and scripts to identify software and system defects.
  • Document test results and report findings to the development team.
  • Collaborate with developers to reproduce and resolve issues.

• 🔹 Update Software Test Procedures:

  • Review and update existing test procedures to ensure they remain relevant and effective.
  • Document changes and maintain test procedure documentation.

• 🔹 Review Work Quality:

  • Assess the work of other team members to ensure it meets quality standards.
  • Provide constructive feedback and suggest improvements.

• 🔹 Undertake Related Project Activities:

  • Contribute to project planning, execution, and closure activities.
  • Assist in project risk management and issue resolution.

• 🔹 Support Mission Systems Goals and Activities:

  • Collaborate with the Mission Systems team to ensure test activities align with project objectives.
  • Contribute to the development and delivery of mission support systems.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

• Education: A degree in a STEM subject (Ideally Systems Engineering, Software Engineering, or numerate discipline) or relevant software test experience.
• Experience: 0-2 years of relevant experience in software testing, systems engineering, or a related field.
• Required Skills:
  • Strong attention to detail and analytical skills.
  • Familiarity with software testing and systems engineering lifecycles.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office tools (Word, Excel, etc.).
  • Excellent communication and team collaboration skills.
  • Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks.
• Preferred Skills:
  • Experience with requirements, architecture, and verification processes.
  • Knowledge of modern operating systems (Microsoft Windows, Android).
  • Familiarity with configuration management tools.
  • Understanding of safety-related systems development standards (RTCA/DO-178C, DO-200A, DO-254, IEC61508, etc.).
  • Experience with IBM Rational DOORS tools.

📊 Web Portfolio & Project Requirements

• Portfolio Essentials:

  • Demonstrate a strong portfolio of software testing projects, highlighting your problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
  • Include case studies that showcase your ability to identify and document software defects.
  • Showcase your understanding of software testing best practices and quality assurance processes.

• Technical Documentation:

  • Provide examples of well-documented test procedures and test case scripts.
  • Include documentation on software testing tools and methodologies used in your projects.
  • Demonstrate your ability to maintain and update technical documentation.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

• Salary Range: Competitive salary package based on experience and location.
• Benefits:
  • 30 days paid holiday plus 8 days bank holidays per year.
  • Uncapped leave scheme upon successful completion of the probation period.
  • Company provided private medical and dental insurance.
  • Company share incentive scheme.
  • Enhanced maternity and paternity pay.
  • Annual profit and performance-related pay scheme.
  • Generous death in service benefit (£100k).
  • Company contributions into a group personal pension scheme.
  • Business travel insurance.
  • Funded role-specific training and financial assistance with professional development.
  • Tax-efficient cycle to work and charitable giving schemes.
  • Tax-efficient electric vehicle company car scheme.

🎯 Team & Company Context

• Company Culture: QinetiQ is committed to creating an inclusive and respectful environment, with a focus on diversity, talent, and high performance. They are a Disability Confident Committed Employer, a supportive signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant, and a Gold award winner within the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme.

• Team Structure: The Mission Systems Group delivers advanced aviation IT systems from their office in Lincoln. The team consists of experienced and highly capable individuals working together with a mature 'can do' work ethic. The team structure is central business functions, mission systems, and operational specialists embedded alongside Defence customers.

• Development Methodology: The team follows Agile methodologies, with a focus on collaborative development, code review, and testing practices. They use CI/CD pipelines and automated deployment strategies to ensure high-quality, reliable software products.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

• Web Technology Career Level: Junior Systems Engineer (Test) role is an entry-level position in systems engineering, focusing on software testing and quality assurance. It provides an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience in software testing and contribute to mission-critical systems development.

• Reporting Structure: The role reports directly to the Mission Systems Test Manager, with regular interaction with software developers, project managers, and other systems engineers.

• Technical Impact: The Junior Systems Engineer (Test) has a significant impact on the quality and reliability of mission support systems. Their work ensures that software defects are identified and resolved before system deployment, minimizing the risk of mission-critical failures.

🌐 Work Environment

• Office Type: Modern, bright, and easily accessible head office to the west of Lincoln, with a collaborative workspace designed for team interaction and cross-functional collaboration.

• Office Location(s): The company's head office is located in Lincoln, with other offices across the UK and internationally. The specific location for this role is UK-multiple (Multiple LI posts).

• Workspace Context: The workspace is designed to facilitate collaboration and knowledge sharing between team members, with access to multiple monitors, testing devices, and development tools.

• Work Schedule: The role follows a standard working week, with flexibility for deployment windows, maintenance, and project deadlines as needed.

📄 Application & Technical Interview Process

• Interview Process:

  • The interview process involves a technical assessment, followed by a behavioral interview and a final evaluation.
  • The technical assessment focuses on software testing fundamentals, problem-solving, and quality assurance processes.

• Portfolio Review Tips:

  • Highlight your attention to detail and analytical skills through well-documented test cases and defect reports.
  • Showcase your ability to identify and document software defects, with a focus on reproducibility and resolution.
  • Include examples of your understanding of software testing best practices and quality assurance processes.

• Technical Challenge Preparation:

  • Familiarize yourself with software testing fundamentals, including test case design, test data preparation, and defect tracking.
  • Practice problem-solving skills and develop your ability to think critically about software quality.

🛠 Technology Stack & Web Infrastructure

• Frontend Technologies: Not applicable to this role.
• Backend & Server Technologies: The role involves working with various backend and server technologies, including mission-critical systems, databases, and operating systems.
• Development & DevOps Tools: The team uses a range of development and DevOps tools, including version control systems, CI/CD pipelines, and automated deployment strategies.

👥 Team Culture & Values

• Web Development Values: The team values attention to detail, analytical skills, and a methodical approach to work. They emphasize collaboration, knowledge sharing, and continuous learning to improve software quality and mission success.
• Collaboration Style: The team encourages cross-functional integration between developers, designers, and stakeholders. They use code review culture, peer programming practices, and regular team meetings to ensure high-quality, reliable software products.

🌟 Challenges & Growth Opportunities

• Technical Challenges:

  • The role presents challenges in identifying and resolving software defects in mission-critical systems, requiring a strong attention to detail and analytical skills.
  • The candidate must stay up-to-date with software testing best practices, emerging technologies, and quality assurance processes.

• Learning & Development Opportunities:

  • The role offers opportunities for professional growth, including training in software testing methodologies, quality assurance processes, and emerging technologies.
  • The candidate can expect to develop leadership skills, technical expertise, and architecture decision-making abilities through mentoring, coaching, and on-the-job training.

💡 Interview Preparation

• Technical Questions:

  • Be prepared to discuss software testing fundamentals, problem-solving skills, and quality assurance processes.
  • Familiarize yourself with software testing best practices, defect tracking, and test case design.

• Company & Culture Questions:

  • Research the company's mission, values, and culture to demonstrate your fit within the team.
  • Prepare questions to ask the interviewer about the team, company culture, and growth opportunities.

• Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

  • Tailor your portfolio to highlight your attention to detail, analytical skills, and software testing expertise.
  • Showcase your ability to identify, document, and resolve software defects through well-documented test cases and defect reports.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Junior Systems Engineer (Test) position:

1. Submit your application through the application link provided.
2. Prepare a tailored resume highlighting your relevant software testing experience, attention to detail, and analytical skills.
3. Prepare a strong portfolio showcasing your software testing projects, problem-solving skills, and quality assurance processes.
4. Research the company and team to demonstrate your fit and enthusiasm for the role.
5. Prepare for the technical assessment, behavioral interview, and final evaluation by practicing software testing fundamentals, problem-solving skills, and quality assurance processes.