QA Automation Lead

QA Automation LeadLocation: Atlanta, GAQuality Assurance LeadThis role centers on leading and driving the overall QA strategy to ensure high-quality software delivery. It balances traditional QA practices with automation and incorporates AI technologies where they add value, without overemphasizing AI. The focus is on strategic planning, automation, and fostering collaboration to embed quality throughout the software development lifecycle. This role requires a strategic and tactical mindset, with the ability to both define vision and execute hands-on. The ideal candidate is scrappy, resourceful, and committed to building scalable, repeatable systems that elevate product quality.Key ResponsibilitiesDevelop and implement a comprehensive QA strategy aligned with business goals and product roadmaps with a focus on building scalable and repeatable automated testing systems that support long-term growth.Define and track quality metrics and KPIs to measure and improve product quality.Lead the adoption of automation frameworks and CI/CD pipeline integration to accelerate testing and improve efficiency. Drive the integration of tools that enable scalable test execution and rapid feedback loopsIdentify opportunities to enhance QA processes through automation and use of AI technologies while ensuring enhancements contribute to sustainable, systematized quality practices.Design and maintain automated test suites to improve test coverage and reduce manual effort.Integrate automation tools into CI/CD pipelines for rapid feedback and faster release cycles.Stay informed about emerging technologies, including AI, to evaluate their potential benefits for QA.Use automation to support documentation, compliance checks, and defect management to streamline repeatable validation processes that reinforce product integrity.Promote a culture of quality and continuous improvement within the QA team.Collaborate closely with development, product management, and operations teams to align on quality objectives.Facilitate communication and coordination to maximize the effectiveness of QA initiatives and ensure the quality is embedded early and consistently throughout the development lifecycle.Oversee test planning, execution, defect tracking, and reporting.Ensure comprehensive test coverage across functional, regression, performance, and security testing with a focus on building test suites that are scalable, maintainable, and aligned with the evolving product needs.Encourage root cause analysis and continuous feedback loops to improve product quality, to reduce time-to-market, and to reinforce a system of quality that supports proactive issue resolution rather than reactive fixes.Required Skills and QualificationsPlaywright, Jira, GITHUB, JUNIT, qTest, etc.Proven experience in developing and driving QA strategy with a strong focus on automation including the ability to architect scalable testing frameworks and lead their implementation.Familiarity with AI-driven tools and their practical application in QA, balanced with traditional testing methods.Strong collaboration and communication skills to lead cross-functional alignment on quality initiatives.Deep understanding of software development lifecycle (SDLC), Agile methodologies, and CI/CD integration.