Principal, SW Quality Engineer

Northern Trust

Principal Quality Engineering role to lead testing teams at Northern Trust specializing in payments and banking services. Driving testing innovations with automation solutions and AI-driven technologies.

Posted 7/2/2026full-timeChicago • Illinois • 🇺🇸 United StatesLead💰 $114,700 - $194,900 per yearWebsite

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

JavaJenkinsMavenSDLCSelenium

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Drive testing of multiple projects within the portfolio leveraging next gen automation solutions, AI driven technologies and smart quality strategies
Provide thought leadership, consultation, mentoring & guidance for test automation
Advance product quality via testing innovations and process improvement
Collaborate with BAs, Architects & Developers in designing testable applications
Design & manage technical proof-of-concept and feasibility studies
Resolve technical issues, anticipate risks and ensure timely management escalation
Utilize analytical skills in determining the root cause of defects & issues
Influence and communicate effectively with both technical & non-technical audiences
Mentor junior SDETs to improve technical ability and effectiveness
Develop & extend test automation frameworks for UI, Micro services & API
Ensure automated tests are run early & often providing quick feedback to the team

Requirements

What you’ll need

14-18 years of overall experience with at least 8 years in quality engineering
5-8 years of experience implementing test automation
5-8 years of experience in a leadership role
BS in Computer Science, Engineering, or Information Technology or equivalent
Excellent knowledge of SDLC and Agile development practices
Lead level exposure to Java, Selenium/LeanFT, BDD (Cucumber/JBehave), TestNG, Eclipse/IntelliJ
Experience with DevOps/CICD toolset - Bamboo/Jenkins/Concourse, Maven, Git, BitBucket
Expert in QA process, techniques & methodologies
Proven ability to lead and collaborate in global, cross functional teams
Familiarity with Banking/Financial domain

Benefits

Comp & perks

Comprehensive benefits package including retirement benefits (401k and pension)
Health and welfare benefits (medical, dental, vision, spending accounts and disability)
Paid time off
Parental and caregiver leave
Life & accident insurance
Other voluntary and well-being benefits
Discretionary bonus program that may include an equity component

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills & Tools

Test AutomationQuality EngineeringSDLC KnowledgeAgile Development PracticesJavaSelenium/LeanFTBDD (Cucumber/JBehave)TestNGAnalytical SkillsRoot Cause Analysis

Soft Skills

MentoringCollaborationEffective CommunicationThought Leadership