Lead Software Quality Assurance Engineer

This position is listed on behalf of a partner company, who manages all applications and next steps. Our partner is looking for a Lead Software Quality Assurance Engineer based in United States.

As a Lead Software Quality Assurance Engineer, you will help ensure the quality, reliability, and process rigor of complex safety-critical software systems. You will provide leadership across software development processes, quality governance, audits, and continuous improvement initiatives. The role combines hands-on process assurance with metrics, failure analysis, release governance, and collaboration across engineering teams. You will help strengthen development practices, improve first-pass yield, and reduce defect escapes through structured quality programs. Working in a matrix environment, you will influence teams and stakeholders while maintaining strong compliance with established standards and procedures. This opportunity is well suited to an experienced quality professional who enjoys improving both engineering processes and product outcomes.

• Lead continuous improvement initiatives focused on the effectiveness and efficiency of software development and quality processes.
• Support engineering teams in developing, optimizing, implementing, and maintaining processes while ensuring alignment with applicable organizational policies.
• Establish and lead an operating rhythm focused on improving software First Pass Yield and reducing defect escape rates.
• Act as a quality gatekeeper for software releases, verifying that required processes are followed and appropriate design rigor is applied.
• Develop, maintain, and enhance metrics and measurement systems to track process effectiveness and support continuous improvement.
• Lead and support process assurance activities, including audits, governance, corrective actions, and preventive actions.
• Conduct detailed failure analysis of non-conformances and help develop effective, compliant solutions to prevent recurring issues and quality escapes.
• Observe and audit adherence to documented standards, processes, and procedures.
• Support quality governance throughout the software development lifecycle and identify opportunities for process improvements.
• Collaborate with technical and nontechnical stakeholders to promote consistent quality practices and drive improvements across a matrix organization.
• Perform additional responsibilities outside the core function when required, with appropriate training provided.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field.
• At least 4 years of experience in software development, implementation, software quality, or a related discipline.
• Strong knowledge of software development methodologies, tools, and processes.
• Strong understanding of process assurance activities, including process audits and corrective and preventive actions.
• Strong understanding of software quality principles and continuous improvement practices.
• Strong verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to communicate effectively with both technical and nontechnical audiences.
• Strong teamwork skills and the ability to collaborate effectively across functions.
• High personal energy, ownership, and accountability.
• Demonstrated ability to lead through influence within a matrixed environment.
• A master’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field is preferred.
• 7 years of experience in software design, systems engineering, testing, or a related area is preferred.
• Familiarity with root cause analysis techniques such as Five Whys, Fishbone Diagrams, and Fault Tree Analysis is preferred.
• Familiarity with ISO requirements and lead auditor certification is preferred.
• Experience with safety-critical software development or CENELEC standards is preferred.
• Familiarity with CMMI requirements is preferred.

Benefits:

• Base salary range of $68,900–$98,200 annually.
• Actual compensation may vary based on training, transferable skills, work experience, education, business needs, market conditions, and work location.
• Health, welfare, and retirement benefits.
• Potential eligibility for an annual bonus.
• Opportunity to contribute to quality and continuous improvement initiatives within complex software and transportation systems.
• Leadership opportunities across software process assurance, governance, audits, and quality improvement.
• Collaborative, cross-functional work environment.
• Opportunity to contribute to safety, reliability, and efficiency in technology supporting critical transportation systems.
• Additional benefits and eligibility may vary depending on the applicable employment arrangements.