Test Analyst

Southern Lights is recruiting on behalf of a growing technology-led organisation seeking a hands-on Test Analyst to take ownership of software testing across their delivery lifecycle.

This role sits at the centre of the release process. You will ensure new features, enhancements and fixes are thoroughly validated before going live, working closely with developers in an agile environment. The focus is not just on testing what is built, but on helping the wider team build better from the outset.

The Opportunity

You will help shape and strengthen the testing approach, ensuring it is structured, efficient and scalable. Working within sprint cycles, you will translate backlog items into clear test scenarios, execute detailed manual testing and provide clear visibility of progress, risk and defects.

This is a visible and important position within the team, suited to someone technically aware, methodical and comfortable operating in a collaborative development setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Engage in sprint ceremonies to understand upcoming changes and plan test coverage accordingly
• Provide realistic effort estimates to support sprint and project planning
• Design and maintain comprehensive test cases linked to backlog items within Azure DevOps
• Carry out structured, iterative testing throughout development cycles
• Support and coordinate user acceptance testing to ensure business readiness
• Identify recurring defect themes and work proactively with developers to reduce future issues
• Oversee and maintain test environments to ensure availability and stability
• Maintain clear documentation of test processes and outcomes
• Track defects from identification through to resolution, including capturing root cause insights

What We’re Looking For

• Proven experience in manual software testing within an agile environment
• ISTQB Foundation qualification or equivalent practical experience
• Working knowledge of Microsoft SQL Server and Azure DevOps
• Strong analytical skills with a high level of attention to detail
• Comfortable working independently while remaining an active team contributor
• Able to manage competing priorities and meet sprint deadlines
• A proactive mindset with a genuine interest in continuous improvement

Here at Southern Lights, we strive to create an inclusive environment where every employee feels valued and empowered to contribute fully. Our recruitment practices are designed to ensure that all candidates have an equal opportunity to succeed, regardless of their race, colour, ethnicity, gender, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, religion, or socioeconomic background.