Lead QA Automation Engineer

Establish BigHappy's first test automation practice from the ground up — building a framework-first, AI-augmented testing discipline that embeds quality into the development lifecycle rather than gatekeeping at the end, across our Go/Node.js/React/AWS stack. NOTE: Candidates must be open to work within USA time zones EST/EDT and PST/PDT hours. Key Responsibilities Design and build BigHappy's test automation framework and strategy from scratch — no existing QA tooling, process, or team to inherit; this person influences the foundational architecture decisions. Automate testing across both layers of our stack: API/backend (Go) and frontend/UI (React, HTML/JS/CSS) — not siloed to one layer. Integrate automated test suites into AWS CI/CD pipelines, so testing runs continuously, not as a pre-release gate. Partner with engineers during design and development — not after code is written — to embed testability, push for contract testing where services integrate, and catch issues before they're built rather than after. Evaluate and adopt AI-leveraged testing tools and techniques: AI-assisted test case generation, self-healing scripts, visual regression, and flaky-test triage — setting a modern baseline rather than replicating legacy manual-first QA. Perform manual/exploratory testing only where automation isn't yet practical (new feature edge cases, exploratory sessions ahead of automated coverage, usability spot-checks) — treated as a bridge, not the default mode of work. Define coverage strategy and quality metrics (defect escape rate, automation coverage %, flaky test rate) and report on them to engineering leadership. Act as the internal voice for quality and testability in engineering discussions — influencing how code gets written, not just how it gets tested. Skills, Knowledge and Expertise Must-Have Skills 7+ years in QA/test automation, with demonstrable majority-time-coding (not majority-manual-testing-with-scripting-on-the-side). Hands-on automation framework experience across both API/backend testing (e.g., Postman/Newman, REST-assured equivalents, or Go-native test tooling) and UI/frontend testing (Playwright, Cypress, or Selenium against React apps). Experience integrating automated tests into CI/CD pipelines (GitHub Actions, Jenkins, or similar — ideally AWS-native tooling). Proven ability to build a test automation framework/strategy from zero — not just extend or maintain an existing one. Working comfort with Go and/or Node.js codebases sufficient to write/debug backend tests and collaborate credibly with engineers on testability. Track record of working embedded with engineering during dev cycles (design reviews, pairing, early test planning) — not just receiving builds to test. Nice-to-Have Skills Hands-on experience with AI-assisted testing tools (test generation, self-healing locators, visual regression via AI, automated flaky-test triage). Contract testing experience (Pact or similar) for service-to-service integration points. Prior experience specifically as a "first QA hire" or building a QA function from zero at a similarly-scaled company. AdTech/MarTech domain familiarity, especially DSP/SSP or DOOH delivery systems, or experience testing creative-delivery/rendering pipelines. Experience with performance/load testing for high-throughput ad-serving systems. Benefits Flexible Time-Off : At BIG Happy, we believe that great work comes from a well balanced life. Our flexible time-off policy empower employees to manage their schedules effectively, recharge when needed, and maintain a healthy work-life balance without compromising productivity. Comprehensive Health & Family Support: We prioritize the well-being of our team and their families. Our plans provide health support policies, including maternity benefits, ensure that employees feel supported during important life stages. Performance-Driven Rewards & Growth: We recognize and reward impact. Through performance bonuses and incentive programs, employees are acknowledged for their contributions and achievements, fostering a motivating environment that supports both personal and professional growth. Relocation & Seamless Transition Support: Joining us from a different location? We’ve got you covered. Our relocation support and reimbursement policies are designed to make your transition smooth and stress-free, allowing you to focus on settling into your role and new environment. Inclusive Culture & Collaborative Environment: Our workplace thrives on collaboration, inclusivity, and engagement. From cross-functional 1:1s to team building activities like movie outings, events, and office get-togethers, we ensure every team member feels connected, valued, and empowered to contribute meaningfully.