Senior API & Functional Test Lead

The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) works to build on strengths of families and communities to keep children and vulnerable adults safe, so they thrive. We do this through investigations, services, and referrals. What You Get Beyond Your Paycheck When you join the State of Texas, your monthly paycheck is just one part of your real income. Our benefits provide extra value that many private employers simply don’t match—often adding hundreds of dollars each month to what you take home or save. Here’s what you get as a full-time employee: • 100% paid health insurance for you, and 50% paid for eligible family members—saving you hundreds every month in out-of-pocket medical costs • Retirement plans with lifetime monthly payments after five years of state service, plus options to save even more with 401(k) and 457 plans • Paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave so you can recharge and take care of life outside work (that’s time off you’re actually paid for) • Optional dental, vision, and life insurance—at rates much lower than most private plans • Flexible spending accounts for added tax savings on health and dependent care • Employee discounts on things like gym memberships, electronics, and entertainment You also might qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness, which could help you pay off federal student loans faster. You can see all the details here: ERS recruitment brochure Functional Title: Senior API & Functional Test Lead Job Title: Systems Analyst V Agency: Dept of Family & Protectve Svc Department: Software Development Res-Op Posting Number: 12581 Closing Date: 01/21/2026 Posting Audience: Internal and External Occupational Category: Computer and Mathematical Salary Group: TEXAS-B-25 Salary Range: $5,797.66 - $9,508.25 Pay Frequency: Monthly Shift: Day Additional Shift: Telework: Eligible for Telework Travel: Up to 10% Regular/Temporary: Regular Full Time/Part Time: Full time FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Exempt Facility Location: Job Location City: AUSTIN Job Location Address: 4900 N LAMAR BLVD Other Locations: MOS Codes: 0171,8848,8858,181X,182X,1D7X1,255A,255S,25B,25D,25H,26B,62E,681X,682X,781X,CTI,CTM,CTR,CYB10,CYB11 ISM,IT,Z Prefix Brief Job Description: DFPS is seeking a Senior Software Test Lead with deep expertise in API and Functional Testing to ensure the delivery of high-quality software solutions. This role will be engaged throughout the Software Development Lifecycle, collaborating with developers, business analysts, and stakeholders to validate that applications meet functional requirements and performance standards. The ideal candidate will have a strong passion for testing, a proven ability to lead complex testing efforts, and experience implementing best practices for API and functional test strategies. You will own the quality assurance process for multiple projects, proactively identifying risks, recommending solutions, and driving improvements in testing methodologies. This position requires advanced knowledge of software testing concepts, hands-on experience with API testing tools, and the ability to mentor and guide QA teams. Adheres to all Texas Department of Family and Protective Services HR policies and performs related work as assigned. Essential Job Functions (EJFs): • Lead and manage API and functional testing efforts across multiple projects. • Design, develop, and review comprehensive test plans, test cases, and test scripts for APIs and functional workflows. • Collaborate with development teams to ensure proper integration and validation of APIs. • Implement and maintain automated API testing frameworks where applicable. • Suggest and implement process improvements to enhance testing efficiency and coverage. • Provide mentoring and coaching to QA testers and other team members on API and functional testing best practices. • Monitor and report on testing progress, defects, and quality metrics to stakeholders. • Troubleshoot and resolve complex testing issues, ensuring timely delivery of high-quality software. • Coordinate with internal teams and external vendors to meet project deadlines and quality standards. • Perform additional duties and responsibilities as assigned by management to meet organizational needs. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs): • Expert-level knowledge of API testing tools (e.g., Postman, SoapUI, REST Assured) and methodologies. • Knowledge of functional testing principles and practices. • Knowledge of software development methodologies (Agile, Waterfall, etc.). • Knowledge of automation frameworks and scripting languages (e.g., Java, Python). • Excellent communication and negotiation skills with technical and non-technical stakeholders. • Ability to lead and influence teams without formal authority. • Problem-solving and risk management skills. • Familiarity with performance and security testing concepts is a plus. Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications: • ISTQB or similar testing certification preferred but not required. Initial Screening Criteria: • Minimum 5 years of experience in software testing, with at least 3 years focused on API and functional testing. • Minimum 2 years of experience leading QA/testing efforts in complex software projects. • Hands-on experience with API testing tools and automation frameworks. • Strong understanding of the software development lifecycle. Preferred Criteria: • Experience with accessibility testing (Section 508/ADA). • Familiarity with DFPS applications or similar enterprise systems. • Experience with CI/CD pipelines and integration of automated tests Additional Information: N/A Review our Tips for Success when applying for jobs at DFPS, DSHS and HHSC. Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to those listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified to fill this position. For more information please see the Texas State Auditor’s Job Descriptions, Military Crosswalk and Military Crosswalk Guide at Texas State Auditor's Office - Job Descriptions. You may also contact the DFPS Military Liaison at [email protected] with additional questions. Applicants selected for hire must pass a background check and if applicable a driver’s record check. State of Texas employees are required to maintain the security and integrity of critical infrastructure as defined in Section 117.001(2), State of Texas Business and Commerce Code. Applicants selected for hire comply with this code by completing related training and abiding by agency cybersecurity and communications system usage policies. As a state agency, DFPS is required by Texas Administrative Code (TAC 206 and 213) to ensure all Electronic Information Resources (EIR) follow accessibility standards. The staff must be familiar with the WCAG 2.1 AA and Section 508 to create accessible content including but not limited to; Microsoft Office documents, Adobe PDFs, webpages, software, training guides, video, and audio files. DFPS uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work. Employees must provide documentation to DFPS to show their identity and authorization to work in the US. Please review the following link for authorized documents: . In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHS/DFPS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS/DFPS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview. Apply tot his job