QA Lead

QA LeadLocation: Seattle (Hybrid to start with and onsite contracting/Full time)HERS Advisors is partnered with an amazing travel company based out of Seattle, WA who are looking for a seasoned QA Lead with a strong understanding of the Azure DevOps (ADO) development process, deep expertise in automation testing, and proven experience leading multi-cultural QA teams. The ideal candidate will be passionate about quality, skilled in modern automation tools, and capable of driving testing strategies across diverse, distributed teams.ResponsibilitiesLead and mentor a global QA team, fostering collaboration across different cultures and time zonesDefine and implement test strategies, plans, and automation frameworks aligned with ADO workflowsCollaborate with development and product teams to ensure test coverage and quality standardsManage test execution, defect tracking, and reporting using Azure DevOpsSelect, implement, and maintain automation tools (e.g., Selenium)Drive continuous improvement in QA processes, including shift-left testing and CI/CD integrationResponsible for PM activities including - Plan, coordinate, facilitate and lead project as well as review meetings with businessProvide updated QA schedules/milestonesEnsure timely delivery of high-quality releases through rigorous testing and validationProvide technical guidance and hands-on support for automation script developmentMonitor and report on QA metrics, risks, and progress to stakeholdersLead Demos and gather feedback.Required Skills & Experience10+ years of QA experience, with at least 2 years in a leadership roleStrong understanding of Azure DevOps and its integration into development lifecyclesHands-on experience with automation testing tools (e.g., Selenium)Experience working in multi-cultural, distributed teamsSolid grasp of test planning, execution, and defect managementFamiliarity with Agile/Scrum methodologiesExcellent communication, leadership, and organizational skillsBachelor's degree in computer science, or related fieldQualificationsExtensive QA hands-on experience in various software testing areas, including functional, integration, and automation testing.Knowledge of cloud-based testing environments (e.g., Azure)Proficiency with automation tools (e.g., Selenium) and frameworks, along with the ability to develop test plans and cases.Exposure to containerized environments (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes)A strong understanding of different testing methodologies and Agile/Scrum development practices.Familiarity with project management tools like ADO and an understanding of software development and database issues.