QA Engineer-Hybrid in Chicago

As a QA Engineer at Rewards Network, you will develop and execute both automated and manual tests to ensure our web and application platforms meet high-quality standards. Your responsibilities include creating test scripts, validating features, collaborating with developers to integrate testing into workflows, and documenting test results. You will also validate integration points with third-party systems and contribute to improving testing efficiency through CI/CD processes.

To qualify for the QA Engineer position at Rewards Network, candidates should have 4-6 years of experience with automated and manual testing in a software environment. A Bachelor's degree in a technical field or equivalent experience is preferred but not mandatory. Proficiency in using frameworks like Cypress.io and Postman, along with skills in SQL for database querying and familiarity with agile methodologies, is essential for this role.

At Rewards Network, the culture is all about collaboration and passion for problem-solving. As a QA Engineer, you will be part of a diverse team that values ownership of both personal and organizational success. The company strives to create a challenging and rewarding environment that maximizes your potential while emphasizing workplace diversity and support, ensuring you feel valued and included.

The expected salary range for a QA Engineer at Rewards Network in Chicago is between $100,000 and $115,000 annually, depending on experience, skills, and other relevant factors. Additionally, this position is eligible for an annual bonus program with a target of 7.5% of your base salary, enhancing your overall compensation significantly.

QA Engineers at Rewards Network enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including competitive Paid Time Off, a 401(k) plan with company match, two medical plan options, generous dining reimbursement, and much more! Also, the company offers a hybrid working environment, ensuring a great work-life balance while fostering a sense of community within the office.

In developing an automated test for a web application, I would first analyze the application’s functionality to identify critical paths that need testing. I would then select an appropriate testing framework, like Cypress.io or Postman, to design the test script, ensuring I cover both positive and negative scenarios. It’s essential to keep the tests maintainable and readable, so I would document each step of the testing process for future reference.

Manual testing is crucial for a QA Engineer as it allows for human insights that automated tests may miss. It gives you the ability to explore the application as a user would, identifying usability issues, and edge cases not covered by scripts. Additionally, manual testing is ideal for one-off tests or initial feature validations, especially early in the development lifecycle.

I have extensive experience testing REST APIs, including using tools like Postman to create and execute test cases that validate API functionality, response times, and error handling. I focus on ensuring that the APIs adhere to specifications, return expected data formats, and handle requests correctly under different conditions.

Communication is key in ensuring collaboration with developers. I would schedule regular meetings to discuss testing strategies and challenges while also involving them in the test development process. By using Agile methodologies, I can align my testing efforts with their development cycles, making it easier to integrate tests seamlessly into the workflow.

Maintaining automation frameworks requires regular reviews to ensure alignment with the latest coding standards and best practices. I focus on refactoring scripts for improved clarity, updating libraries and dependencies, and introducing new tools or features to enhance functionality. I also provide training to team members to ensure that everyone can contribute effectively to the framework.

When documenting test cases, I ensure to include clear descriptions that outline the purpose of the test, the steps taken, the expected results, and the actual outcomes. Consistency in formatting also aids readability and enables team members to quickly understand the test's intent. Additionally, I include any prerequisites or environment settings that are significant for replicating tests later.

When discovering defects during testing, I follow a systematic approach by documenting the issue thoroughly, including steps to replicate it, screenshots, and any relevant logs. I then prioritize the defect based on its severity and potential impact on the release schedule, making sure to communicate clearly with the development team about the findings for timely resolution.

For load and performance testing, I typically leverage tools like Gatling or JMeter to simulate various user load scenarios. Establishing clear performance benchmarks beforehand allows me to measure how the application performs under different conditions. Post-testing, I analyze the results to identify bottlenecks and make recommendations for enhancements to improve performance.

Prioritizing testing tasks in a fast-paced environment involves an understanding of the project’s goals and deadlines. I employ risk-based testing, where I assess features based on their importance and complexity, allowing me to focus on the most critical areas first. Agile practices help significantly, as they provide a framework for determining priorities and adapting to changing requirements quickly.

My motivation as a QA Engineer stems from solving complex problems and ensuring that end-users have a seamless experience with the product. I take pride in contributing to high-quality software development and enjoy the collaborative aspects of the role, as working with cross-functional teams fosters innovation and continuous improvement in our processes.