Who is an SDET?

A Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) refers to an individual who participates in the software development lifecycle through implementing automated software testing processes. These individuals are expected to possess significant knowledge in making software robust, stable and ensure that it performs flawlessly. An SDET has advanced level programming skills, which they employ to create testing frameworks and tools.

The position of an SDET enhances the software development life cycle process by contributing to the effectiveness of software testing life cycles through their software development and information systems management skillsets. They are generally hired for designing, planning, creating, streamlining software testing through automation processes and are experts at creating test planning processes for the purposes of developing and delivering a high-quality software product

Roles and responsibilities of an SDET

The regular duties of an SDET include running automated tests (at the user interface level), defect discovery and reporting through back-tracking systems, developing test cases, test plans and strategies.

Responsibilities that an SDET is accountable for executing:

• Performing test automation against systems across multiple platforms such as the web, desktop and mobile;
• Analyzing customer requirements;
• Working with development teams to resolve defects;
• Creating innovative test environments and acceptance tests;
• Working with solutions architects in the analysis of software systems in order to produce more effective system designs;
• Conducting research and development of test tools, methodologies, trends and upgrading existing practices and processes;
• Offering suggestions on the testability of functional elements, product designs, and planning and estimations;
• Ensuring quality control of products;
• Interpreting business, functional and non-functional requirements to produce relevant tests.

Skills required to become an SDET

SDET professionals are in high demand in the IT, gaming, advertising, entertainment, financial and hospitality sectors. Besides general soft skills such as communication, leadership and creativity, SDETs should have the following technical skills to advance in their career path:

• Intermediate skills in software development;
• Advanced automation skills;
• A strategic mindset to develop agile systems;
• Knowledge of software languages such as C#, Java or Python;
• Experience in implementing agile and DevOps processes
• Knowledge of behavior-driven development and object-oriented design;
• Understanding various testing frameworks and similar tools like MS test, TestNG, NUnit, Selenium WebDriver and more;
• Proficiency in using performance testing tools to discover thresholds and bottlenecks in existing code.

Additionally, a SDET must hold experience in server-side programming and software deployment technologies. If you are keen on gaining professional exposure in software development and testing, check out the Software Developer in Test Diploma program, offered by the Canadian College of Technology and Business. This course offers in-depth knowledge of technical architecture and design, automation processes, and the development and programing aptitude required to write effective code. Apply now!