Instil
Senior Test Automation Engineer (Contract)

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The Role
We’re looking for a Senior Test Automation Engineer to join our engineering team in Belfast, helping ensure the quality of the software we deliver across a range of projects.
This is a hands-on role where you’ll focus on building out automation, improving test coverage, and working closely with engineers to make quality part of the development process, not something that happens at the end.
You’ll be working in fast-moving, agile teams, contributing to how we test, release, and continuously improve the systems we build.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Build and maintain automated tests for web-based applications using tools like Playwright
- Automate tests across both user interfaces and backend services
- Expand and maintain automated regression test suites to support reliable releases
- Integrate testing into CI/CD pipelines to support continuous delivery
- Contribute to test strategies and quality approaches across projects
- Set up and manage test environments and test data as required
- Identify defects, track them through to resolution, and help ensure root causes are understood
- Communicate testing progress, risks, and outcomes clearly to the wider team
- Participate fully in agile ceremonies, contributing to planning, refinement, and continuous improvement
Reasons to use Rodeo
I’m in my final year doing Economics and I don’t know whether to apply for grad schemes now or do a masters first. What do you think?
Honest answer — it depends on where you want to end up. A lot of top grad schemes (Big 4, civil service, banking) don’t need a masters. Let’s look at the ones you’d be competitive for now, and we can decide if a masters actually adds anything.
Also worth knowing: most autumn 2026 applications are open now. Timing matters more than you think.
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Grad scheme, placement, apprenticeship? Not sure what you want yet — that's fine. Your agent talks it through with you and turns "I have no idea" into a shortlist.
Graduate Consultant — 2026 Scheme
Why you're a good match
StrongYour economics background and your summer at a regional bank line up with what PwC looks for on the consulting scheme. Applications close in four weeks.
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Why you're a good match
You’ve got the grades and the economics background, and your bank internship is exactly the experience this scheme looks for. Apply soon — deadlines close within the month.
Experience fit
Your summer at the bank plus your econometrics coursework map directly to the day-one responsibilities on this scheme — client modelling, market briefings, and deal support.
Only hits
No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.
What We’re Looking For
- 5+ years’ experience in a QA or software testing role
- Strong experience with test automation strategies for web applications
- Experience working with test frameworks in Playwright (or similar tools)
- A good understanding of different testing types (functional, integration, regression, etc.)
- Experience working in agile, delivery-focused teams
- Exposure to CI/CD pipelines and version control tools (e.g. GitHub, Jenkins or similar)
- Strong attention to detail and a pragmatic approach to testing
- Clear communication skills and the ability to work closely with engineers and stakeholders
Nice to Have
- Experience testing cloud-based systems (AWS or similar)
- Exposure to API or service-level testing
- Experience of using AI tools to support testing efforts
- Familiarity with performance or non-functional testing approaches
- An interest in improving QA processes and tooling
- Experience working across multiple projects or client environments


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Please note: We offer flexible hybrid working, but candidates should be based in Northern Ireland and able to attend our Belfast office when required.
Company Description
Instil has been delivering world-class software engineering and technology solutions for over 20 years, trusted by global brands to solve complex challenges and drive innovation. From modernising legacy systems to building cutting-edge applications, we help our clients navigate an ever-changing digital landscape with confidence and agility.
We’re proud to be an award-winning employer, reflecting how our people are at the heart of everything we do:
- Recognised as a Great Place to Work® for three consecutive years, and in 2024 ranked in the Top 20 Best Workplaces in the UK for medium-sized companies.
- Winner of Company of the Year at the Digital DNA Awards 2022, celebrating excellence in Northern Ireland’s tech sector.
Driven by a love for technology and a commitment to excellence, we bring together people who want to make a difference. We’ll support your journey, because your success is part of ours.
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