QA Engineer

SunnyData, a recognised partner in the DataBricks ecosystem, is seeking a skilled QA Engineer to join its fully remote team. The company focuses on delivering comprehensive data solutions for its clients, ranging from scalable architectures and robust data engineering pipelines to user-friendly data consumption layers and cutting-edge ML/AI applications. As a QA Engineer at SunnyData, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring the quality and reliability of these data-centric products.

About the Role

This position is specifically tailored for a QA professional with a significant interest and aptitude for data. You will be instrumental in bridging the gap between client requirements and the technical implementation of data solutions. Your primary responsibility will be to thoroughly understand project specifications and translate them into detailed, effective test plans and cases. This involves ensuring that all project requirements are traceable throughout the testing lifecycle.

You will be expected to execute these test cases diligently, including comprehensive regression testing, to identify any discrepancies or defects. A crucial aspect of the role involves the meticulous documentation of test progress and any issues encountered. Furthermore, you will collaborate closely with the engineering team to track, validate, and ensure the successful resolution of software defects, maintaining a high standard of quality across all delivered solutions.

The day-to-day responsibilities of this QA Engineer role are multifaceted and centre on ensuring the integrity and functionality of data-driven systems. A key focus will be on validating data across various platforms, including applications, APIs, databases, and complex data pipelines, to guarantee accuracy, consistency, and overall reliability.

Your tasks will include:

• Translating project requirements into actionable test plans and detailed test cases.
• Executing a range of test cases, from functional testing to regression testing, and meticulously documenting the outcomes.
• Proactively identifying, documenting, and tracking software defects, working collaboratively with developers to ensure timely and effective resolutions.
• Engaging with business stakeholders to clarify requirements and address any testing-related queries, fostering clear communication.
• Investigating defects alongside engineers to pinpoint root causes and devise appropriate solutions.
• Establishing and documenting clear testing processes, standards, and best practices to promote consistency and quality.
• Contributing to the ongoing refinement and improvement of testing methodologies and data quality initiatives.
• Exploring and leveraging AI tools to enhance automation efficiency, streamline data validation, and broaden test coverage.
• Partnering with engineering and data teams to uphold high standards of software quality and data dependability.

What They're Looking For

SunnyData is searching for a candidate with a proven track record in Quality Assurance, ideally with a minimum of four years of hands-on experience. A strong foundation in test automation is essential, with practical experience using tools such as Playwright and/or Cypress being highly desirable.

Key qualifications and attributes include:

• A robust understanding of data quality principles, including consistency and integrity.
• Proficiency in SQL is a must, coupled with practical experience in data validation within databases.
• Demonstrated experience in testing APIs and data-intensive applications.
• Familiarity with version control systems like GitHub and experience with Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment (CI/CD) pipelines.
• Cloud platform experience (e.g., AWS, Azure, GCP) would be a significant advantage.
• Exceptional analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• A keen eye for detail, with the ability to effectively document, troubleshoot, and communicate findings regarding defects and test results.
• Strong organisational skills, enabling the management of multiple testing efforts concurrently and their successful completion.
• A proactive approach, with the foresight to anticipate potential risks and identify opportunities for improving automation, test coverage, and overall efficiency.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, essential for building strong working relationships.
• A demonstrated interest in and experience with applying AI tools to enhance testing processes.
• The ability to thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative team environment.

This role presents an exciting opportunity for a QA Engineer to contribute to a leading data solutions provider. In South Africa, QA Engineer roles with these responsibilities and a focus on data and automation can typically command a competitive salary, often ranging from R40,000 to R70,000+ per month, depending on experience and the specific technologies mastered. Common employers for such specialised roles include tech consultancies, financial services, and companies with significant data analytics or AI operations. Career progression often involves specialisation in test automation architecture, leading QA teams, or moving into more senior data engineering or data science roles.

• 4+ years of experience in Quality Assurance.
• Hands-on experience with test automation using Playwright and/or Cypress.
• Strong SQL skills and experience validating data in databases.
• Experience testing APIs and data-driven applications.
• Understanding of data quality, consistency, and integrity.
• Experience with GitHub and CI/CD pipelines.
• Cloud experience is a plus.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to effectively document, troubleshoot, and communicate defects and test results.
• Strong organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple testing initiatives and drive them to completion.
• Proactive mindset, with the ability to anticipate risks and identify opportunities to improve automation, test coverage, and overall efficiency.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to build positive relationships with internal teams and external partners.
• Interest and experience in leveraging AI tools to improve automation efficiency, data validation, and test coverage.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.