Software & Systems Test Engineer

We're hiring:

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A hybrid role based in the Southwest, UK

About the job

Demand for Cervus’ products and services continues to grow across the Defence sector. We are looking for a motivated, curious, and technically minded Software and System Test Engineer to help us scale and ensure the continued high quality of our data analytics capabilities across the UK and international markets.

The Software & System Test Engineer is responsible for validating complex, distributed software systems through rigorous testing, integration activities, and continuous quality assurance. This role ensures that all components—from backend services and data pipelines to UI layers and software/hardware interfaces—operate reliably, consistently, and in a way that delights our users. The role involves working closely with development, product, and delivery teams to identify defects early, improve system robustness, and support seamless deployment into production and field environments.

Quick overview

Role: Software & Systems Test Engineer

Type: Full time

Location: Hybrid, Bristol & Westbury

Salary Range: Up to £50,000 per annum, depending on experience

CV shortlisting will begin We are actively reviewing CVs from 17 August and will be continuously assessing applications and interviewing suitable candidates throughout the recruitment process..

Who We’re Looking For

Develop, execute, and maintain software integration and test plans, procedures, and scripts

Perform system-level integration, verification, and validation activities across system and software components.

Conduct functional, regression, performance, security and acceptance testing.

Perform exploratory testing, identify defects, and support troubleshooting with engineering teams.

Work with design and development engineers to define test requirements and acceptance criteria.

Contribute to test automation frameworks and tools.

Maintain test environments, labs, and test equipment.

Support system certification, compliance, and customer acceptance testing.

Provide input into system design reviews from an integration and verification perspective.

Ensure compliance with security, quality, and regulatory standards.

Champion our users’ needs and help to train and support our users on how to use our products.

Key Responsibilities and Essential Skills:

Required Skills & Experience

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field preferred or equivalent practical experience in a professional environment.

Proven experience as a Software & System Test Engineer or similar role.

Practical implementation of tests and test plans across the whole testing pyramid for good coverage and fast feedback.

Ability to bring real user empathy to exploratory testing, focussing on the friction points that matter most.

Strong understanding of system engineering, verification, and validation methodologies.

Hands-on experience with protocol analysers, test equipment, measurement tools, and automation frameworks.

Proficiency in scripting or programming languages (preferably Python, Bash & Javascript).

Solid knowledge of networking protocols, system interfaces, and data flows.

Experience with requirements management tools (e.g. JIRA, or similar).

Ability to read and interpret system specifications, schematics, and technical documents.

Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills.