Senior Test Analyst

SUMMARY:
Our esteemed client in Sandton is urgently looking for a SENIOR TEST ANALYST / CONTRACTING POSITION
Rate per hour highly negotiable

The Senior Test Analyst is responsible for leading testing activities across complex initiatives, ensuring high-quality software delivery, and providing mentorship and quality governance within the testing function. The role combines hands-on testing with test planning, coordination, and stakeholder engagement.

POSITION INFO:
Qualifications & Experience: Diploma or Degree in IT, Computer Science, or related field ( or equivalent experience ) 5+ years' experience in software testing, with at least 2 years in a senior or lead capacity ISTQB Advanced Test Analyst or equivalent certification (advantageous) Technical Skills (Typical): Test management and defect tracking tools (e.g. Jira, Azure DevOps, TestRail, Zephyr) Solid experience with manual testing and exposure to test automation frameworks API testing tools (e.g. Postman) SQL for data validation and test analysis CI\/CD and Agile delivery environments (Scrum \/ SAFe) Required Skills & Competencies: Advanced knowledge of testing methodologies, SDLC\/STLC, and quality assurance practices Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills Ability to lead testing efforts independently across multiple workstreams Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills Strong attention to detail with a strategic quality mindset Key Responsibilities: Test Leadership & Planning: Lead the definition and execution of test strategies, plans, and approaches for projects and releases Analyse complex business and technical requirements to define comprehensive test coverage Estimate testing effort, identify risks, and provide input into delivery planning Ensure testing aligns with organisational quality standards and best practices Test Design & Execution: Design, review, and maintain high-quality test scenarios, cases, and data Execute and oversee functional, integration, system, regression, and end-to-end testing Guide automation testing efforts and identify opportunities for test optimisation Ensure non-functional testing requirements (performance, security, usability) are considered Defect & Quality Management: Manage defect lifecycle, ensuring clear logging, prioritisation, and resolution Perform root cause analysis and recommend quality improvements Provide go\/no-go recommendations based on test outcomes and risk assessment Stakeholder Engagement: Work closely with Business Analysts, Developers, Product Owners, and Project Managers Translate testing risks and issues into clear, business-focused insights Support and coordinate User Acceptance Testing (UAT) activities Mentorship & Continuous Improvement: Coach and mentor Test Analysts and junior QA team members Review test artefacts and provide constructive feedback Drive continuous improvement in test processes, tools, and practices