QA Specialist

This position is with the Scientific Applications and Information Systems Branch (SAISB), Office of Technology and Information Systems (OTIS), National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID). This candidate will report to the Branch Chief and will be responsible for assisting NIAID in the development of plans and programs for achieving and maintaining software application quality throughout the life cycle of systems. This candidate will support software testing on a program that develops customized scientific software applications and integrates COTS, GOTS, and custom software in comprehensive software systems.
As a member of the team, the QA tester will be responsible for:

writing test plans, procedures and reports.

conducting tests and work with developers to resolve discrepancies.

ensuring that all software and documentation are in compliance with Customer and internal SAISB standards.

performing software item (unit) and system testing on software developed to operate on the Windows platform.

developing formal test plans and procedures for customized software systems in order to demonstrate the product satisfies the customer's requirements.Additionally, the QA Tester will:

clearly document system problems.

Interacting with system and software developers to define and correct problems found with developed software.

Working independently, under only general direction.

The tester must have excellent documentation skills to produce test material.Skills Required: 3+ years experience with software quality assurance (QA)/control methods, principles, and practices.

3+ years experience with software inspection, testing and measurement techniques.

2+ years hands-on testing experience.

Knowledge of the relationship of QA to activities across the software development life cycle; knowledge of SEI/CMMI desirable.

Demonstrated expertise in interpreting and applying guidance, best practices, and lessons learned into QA framework and procedures.

Demonstrated skill in conducting studies and inspections, analysis, and developing logical and documented recommendations for improvements and solutions.

Significant direct experience performing QA tasks in a Microsoft technologies environment.

Testing experience in a structured environment based on a proven methodology.Desired Skills: Programming background is highly desirable, based on actual experience or through a degreed program.

Automated test tool experience is not required, but a major plus.

Fluent in English language-skilled in written and oral communications.

Skilled in establishing effective interpersonal relationships; able to work independently and as part of a team.

Action oriented and results driven with the ability to perform challenging assignments under general supervision.

Demonstrated commitment to quality.Requires Bachelors degree or equivalent experience in Computer Science or minimum 3 years of analysis/systems programmer work experience and 5 years of related experience.