Software Quality Assurance Engineer

Job Title:

Software Quality Assurance Engineer Job Description The Software Quality Assurance Engineer designs and executes comprehensive tests for application and embedded software used in safety-critical systems. This role focuses on ensuring the reliability, performance, and compliance of software in regulated environments by developing robust test strategies, identifying and tracking defects, and collaborating closely with cross-functional engineering teams. The engineer continuously improves testing processes, tools, and methodologies to enhance product quality and reduce time to market. Responsibilities Design, document, and execute comprehensive test cases for application and embedded software used in safety-critical systems. Identify, document, and track software defects, inconsistencies, and performance issues using bug tracking systems. Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including software developers, hardware engineers, and product managers, to understand requirements and define effective test strategies. Analyze test results and provide clear, actionable feedback to engineering teams to improve software performance, reliability, and compliance. Suggest and implement improvements to software design, test coverage, and test processes based on test outcomes and defect trends. Drive continuous improvements in testing processes, tools, and methodologies to improve product quality and reduce time to market. Verify correct implementation and robustness of digital communication protocols such as EtherCAT, CAN, and UART in embedded systems. Contribute to test automation by using programming languages such as C, C++, or Python to create and maintain automated test scripts. Ensure that testing activities align with regulatory standards and best practices for safety-critical and regulated environments. Prepare and maintain clear test documentation, including test plans, test cases, test reports, and defect records. Essential Skills Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field. 3+ years of experience in software quality assurance with a focus on application software and hardware systems. Hands-on experience testing safety-critical software systems, such as those used in automotive or medical devices. Strong understanding of communication protocols such as EtherCAT, CAN, and UART. Experience working with embedded systems, embedded software, and firmware in conjunction with hardware. Familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS) as well as Windows and Linux operating environments. Ability to use programming languages such as C, C++, or Python for test automation and scripting. Experience with version control systems such as Git or SVN. Experience with continuous integration tools such as Azure DevOps. Strong understanding of software quality assurance principles, software testing methodologies, and defect management. Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills with strong attention to detail. Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams. Additional Skills & Qualifications Experience in testing software in regulated environments such as medical devices, aerospace, military, or automotive applications. Familiarity with regulatory standards and practices for medical software development, including FDA-related guidelines and IEC standards. Understanding of quality assurance practices specific to safety-critical and regulated domains. Experience with digital communication protocols and sensor-related testing in embedded systems. ISTQB certification or similar quality assurance certification is a plus. Background in software quality, embedded programming, and embedded software development is highly beneficial. Exposure to Ethernet-based industrial communication such as EtherCAT and CAN bus communication. Ability to contribute to continuous improvement initiatives in testing tools, frameworks, and processes. Work Environment The role operates in a collaborative engineering environment that brings together software, hardware, and product teams to develop and validate safety-critical systems. You will work with application and embedded software running on real-time operating systems as well as Windows and Linux platforms, and you will interact with embedded hardware, sensors, and digital communication interfaces such as EtherCAT, CAN, and UART. The position typically involves using modern development and test tools, version control systems like Git or SVN, and continuous integration platforms such as Azure DevOps to support efficient and traceable testing workflows. The environment encourages rigorous documentation, adherence to regulatory and quality standards, and continuous improvement of test processes and tools. Job Type & Location This is a Contract position based out of Newton, MA. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $50.00 - $65.00/hr. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave) Workplace Type This is a fully onsite position in Newton,MA.

Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on May 6, 2026. Diversity, Equity & Inclusion At Actalent, diversity and inclusion are a bridge towards the equity and success of our people. DE&I is embedded into our culture through: Hiring diverse talent Maintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflection Building a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomes Ensuring growth opportunities for our people Actalent is an equal opportunity employer. About Actalent Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services. For more than 40 years, we've helped visionary companies advance their goals. Headquartered in the United States, our teams span 150 offices across North America, EMEA, and APAC—with four delivery centers in India led by 1,000+ extraordinary employees who connect their passion with purpose every day. Our Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, and Chennai delivery centers are hubs of engineering expertise, with core capabilities in mechanical and electrical engineering, systems and software, and manufacturing engineering. Our teams deliver work across multiple industries including transportation, consumer and industrial products, and life sciences. We serve more than 4,500 clients, including many Fortune 500 brands. Learn more about how we can work together at actalentservices.com.