Python Automation Test Engineer at ApplianSys, Coventry, 6-12 Months, £Contract Rate

ApplianSys is a UK-based entrepreneurial company specialising in network appliance products, including CACHEbox, DNSbox, and EDUGATEbox. With customers in over 160 countries, we are recognised globally for our excellence in delivering tailored solutions for challenging markets. As we continue to grow, our mission remains to achieve and sustain world-class performance across all facets of our business.

We are entering a period of significant change in our engineering processes, prioritising automation, innovation, and AI to transform our product development cycle. This dynamic environment requires agility, adaptability, and cutting-edge expertise to ensure our products meet the highest standards of quality and performance in the coming years.

ROLE OVERVIEW

ApplianSys seeks a Contract Testing Engineer to spearhead transformative improvements in our QA and testing processes. This contractor role, spanning 6-12 months (with a 6+6 structure), aims to implement step changes in automation, testing methodologies, and AI-driven testing solutions. The successful candidate will collaborate closely with the development team to radically enhance our testing efficiency and product reliability. This is not a routine or permanent role but a dynamic and high-impact opportunity suited to individuals motivated by variety and innovation.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Drive Transformational QA: Implement advanced testing methodologies and tools, focusing on automation and AI integration to redefine our testing approach.
• Comprehensive Testing: Conduct robust testing of our CACHEbox, DNSbox, and EDUGATEbox products, ensuring their functionality, reliability, and performance in diverse scenarios.
• Automation Leadership: Design, develop, and deploy automated testing frameworks, streamlining QA processes and improving scalability.
• Collaborative Problem Solving: Work with developers to identify and resolve issues, ensuring continuous product improvement.
• Documentation & Feedback: Deliver detailed testing reports and actionable recommendations to drive iterative development.
• Best Practices Adoption: Establish and enforce QA best practices, including root cause analysis, issue tracking, and version control.
• Continuous Improvement: Stay ahead of industry trends in QA, automation, and AI tools, bringing innovative ideas to the team.

REQUIRED SKILLS & EXPERIENCE

Essential:

• Proven experience in delivering automation-driven QA transformation projects.
• Expertise in automation frameworks and tools, such as Selenium, pytest, and Python’s unittest.
• Strong skills in Python, with experience in developing or contributing to test automation.
• Deep understanding of networking protocols (HTTP, DNS, DHCP) and Linux systems.
• Strong knowledge of web application technologies (HTML, JavaScript, CSS).
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate with technical teams and deliver high-quality solutions.
• Proactive mindset with a focus on results and efficiency.

Desirable:

• Exposure to AI-driven testing tools and methodologies.
• Experience with open-source technologies such as Squid, ISC Kea, and nginx.
• Hardware testing experience and familiarity with component selection processes.
• Track record of implementing QA improvements, particularly in caching or DNS environments.

CONTRACT STRUCTURE

• Duration: 6-12 months (6+6 structure, with potential for extension based on outcomes).
• Location: Coventry, UK. Flexibility for remote work can be considered.
• Compensation: Competitive day rate commensurate with experience and qualifications.

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE

We are seeking a high-performing individual with a strong track record in transformational QA projects. The role is perfect for someone who thrives in dynamic environments, embraces variety, and seeks to leave a lasting impact through innovation and automation. This opportunity aligns with professionals motivated by change and improvement rather than long-term, routine roles.

NEXT STEPS

If you’re a proactive and skilled QA professional eager to take on a high-impact contract role, we encourage you to apply. Join us in reshaping the future of testing and quality assurance at ApplianSys.