Senior API & Functional Test Lead

About the position The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) works to build on strengths of families and communities to keep children and vulnerable adults safe, so they thrive. We do this through investigations, services, and referrals. DFPS is seeking a Senior Software Test Lead with deep expertise in API and Functional Testing to ensure the delivery of high-quality software solutions. This role will be engaged throughout the Software Development Lifecycle, collaborating with developers, business analysts, and stakeholders to validate that applications meet functional requirements and performance standards. The ideal candidate will have a strong passion for testing, a proven ability to lead complex testing efforts, and experience implementing best practices for API and functional test strategies. You will own the quality assurance process for multiple projects, proactively identifying risks, recommending solutions, and driving improvements in testing methodologies. This position requires advanced knowledge of software testing concepts, hands-on experience with API testing tools, and the ability to mentor and guide QA teams. Adheres to all Texas Department of Family and Protective Services HR policies and performs related work as assigned.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage API and functional testing efforts across multiple projects.
• Design, develop, and review comprehensive test plans, test cases, and test scripts for APIs and functional workflows.
• Collaborate with development teams to ensure proper integration and validation of APIs.
• Implement and maintain automated API testing frameworks where applicable.
• Suggest and implement process improvements to enhance testing efficiency and coverage.
• Provide mentoring and coaching to QA testers and other team members on API and functional testing best practices.
• Monitor and report on testing progress, defects, and quality metrics to stakeholders.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex testing issues, ensuring timely delivery of high-quality software.
• Coordinate with internal teams and external vendors to meet project deadlines and quality standards.
• Perform additional duties and responsibilities as assigned by management to meet organizational needs.

Requirements

• Expert-level knowledge of API testing tools (e.g., Postman, SoapUI, REST Assured) and methodologies.
• Knowledge of functional testing principles and practices.
• Knowledge of software development methodologies (Agile, Waterfall, etc.).
• Knowledge of automation frameworks and scripting languages (e.g., Java, Python).
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills with technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Ability to lead and influence teams without formal authority.
• Problem-solving and risk management skills.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in software testing, with at least 3 years focused on API and functional testing.
• Minimum 2 years of experience leading QA/testing efforts in complex software projects.
• Hands-on experience with API testing tools and automation frameworks.
• Strong understanding of the software development lifecycle.

Nice-to-haves

• Familiarity with performance and security testing concepts is a plus.
• ISTQB or similar testing certification preferred but not required.
• Experience with accessibility testing (Section 508/ADA).
• Familiarity with DFPS applications or similar enterprise systems.
• Experience with CI/CD pipelines and integration of automated tests

Benefits

• 100% paid health insurance for you, and 50% paid for eligible family members—saving you hundreds every month in out-of-pocket medical costs
• Retirement plans with lifetime monthly payments after five years of state service, plus options to save even more with 401(k) and 457 plans
• Paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave so you can recharge and take care of life outside work (that’s time off you’re actually paid for)
• Optional dental, vision, and life insurance—at rates much lower than most private plans
• Flexible spending accounts for added tax savings on health and dependent care
• Employee discounts on things like gym memberships, electronics, and entertainment

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