STE Lead

Symetra has an exciting new opportunity to join us as a
Lead Software Test Engineer!

We are seeking a highly skilled Lead Software Test Engineer to guide and mentor a small team of QA professionals in building and executing test strategies for complex, enterprise-level systems. In this role, you will act as a hands‑on technical expert, driving quality practices, influencing solution design, and ensuring the delivery of stable, secure, and high‑performing technology solutions.

You will collaborate closely with business stakeholders, architects, developers, and subject matter experts, using your deep expertise in software testing, automation, quality metrics, and engineering excellence to ensure project success. This is an ideal opportunity for someone who combines strong technical depth with leadership and a passion for quality.

• Lead and mentor a small team of QA engineers, driving test planning, estimation, execution, and continuous skill development.
• Develop and oversee test strategies—including test cases, datasets, automation frameworks, and execution plans—for complex enterprise systems.
• Own key quality metrics and deliver data‑driven dashboards, reports, and risk assessments to senior leadership.
• Partner with engineering, product, and architecture teams to ensure testability, influence technical decisions, and resolve complex defects.
• Champion quality across the organization by advancing testing best practices, improving processes, and identifying automation opportunities.
• Guide the QA Center of Excellence and maintain scalable frameworks for defect tracking, quality maturity, and engineering efficiency.

Here’s what some of our employees have to say about why they work at Symetra:

"Symetra will spoil you. There aren't many companies that will put as much effort into you being a success as Symetra. The culture will challenge you but simultaneously put you lure is seen as integral to the learning process so there is less reason to be fearful of it." - Kerry S., Sr. Systems Analyst

"If you want to invest in yourself and build a career, this is a great place to work. If you don't want to put in the effort to learn the industry and become a student of the business (it takes real effort!), there are easier places to work." - Cris H., VP Internal Sales

Benefits and Perks

• Flexible full‑time or hybrid telecommuting arrangements
• Plan for your future with our 401(k) plan and take advantage of immediate vesting and company matching up to 6%
• Paid time away including vacation and sick time, flex days and ten paid holidays
• Give back to your community and double your impact through our company matching
• Want more details? Check out our Symetra Benefits Overview

Salary Range: $106,400 - $177,300 plus eligibility for the company annual bonus program.

• High School Diploma is required, plus a BA/BS in related field or equivalent experience preferred
• 8–10 years of progressively complex experience in QA or software testing.
• Professional certifications in software testing or QA (e.g., ISTQB, CSQA, CSTE) preferred.
• Advanced skills in documentation, IT systems, software testing, and leadership.
• Strong problem‑solving ability and proficiency in project management.
• Expertise in functional, regression, integration, and automated testing within complex environments.
• Strong analytical capabilities with the ability to define, interpret, and communicate quality metrics.
• Ability to translate technical and data‑driven insights into clear executive‑level communication for Directors and senior leadership.
• Some minimal annual travel required (for people manager roles only)

• Required Training & Professional Development
  All newly hired people leaders with direct reports are required to complete a comprehensive leadership development program within their first year. This program includes both virtual and in‑person training. The in‑person sessions will take place at Symetra’s corporate headquarters in Bellevue, Washington. Symetra covers all travel and accommodation expenses.
• Reasonable Accommodations
  Symetra is committed to providing equitable access to all…