Test Automation Lead - Network Testing

We have a great new role for a Test Automation Lead to join our B2B Service and Platform team.

The Test Automation Lead is responsible for developing and implementing automated testing strategies to ensure the reliability, performance, and security of network infrastructure. This role involves leading a team of developers, collaborating with network architect, lab and manual test teams to support test automation of functional and regression scenarios. The successful candidate will drive innovation in testing processes and ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations.

The make up of the role is approximately 30% leadership/strategy and 70% hands on.

Key responsibilities & accountabilities

• Develop and Implement Test Automation Strategies: Design, develop, and maintain automated test frameworks and scripts for network infrastructure using tools and technologies such as VMware, Ansible, Jenkins, Cloudshell.
• Lead automation Dev Team: Mentor and lead a team of developers, ensuring best practices in test automation and continuous improvement of testing processes.
• Collaborate with Network Teams: Work closely with manual test engineers and development teams to ensure seamless integration of test automation and to identify testing requirements.
• Execute Test Plans: Coordinate and execute test plans and cases, analysing test results and reporting on the quality and performance of network products.
• Drive Innovation: Investigate and institutionalize new tools, methods, and standards to enhance the automation testing process for network infrastructure.

The UK’s fastest broadband network. The nation’s best-loved mobile brand. And, one of the UK's biggest companies too. We put our customers first, making life simpler, smoother, and more joyful. With big ambitions and a brilliant team, we’re building a more connected future for everyone.

Our ways of working

We’re a flexible-first organisation, because we know people do their best work when they have choice and clarity. To support meaningful collaboration, we ask everyone to spend at least eight days each month connecting in person.

That doesn’t just mean time in the office, it could be team meetings, offsites, volunteering days, cross-functional projects, or away days - anywhere meaningful collaboration happens. What matters is making those moments purposeful, so when we come together, it really counts.

Accessible, inclusive and equitable for all

Virgin Media O2 is an equal opportunities employer and we're working hard to remove bias and barriers for our people and candidates. So, we build equity and inclusion into everything we do, from the policies we craft to the relationships we shape. We support and encourage you to be your authentic self throughout your application journey with us.

• Significant experience leading network testing and automation initiatives, preferably within the telecom or enterprise networking domain.
• Proven track record in QA leadership, driving automation strategy, and mentoring cross-functional teams.
• Strong proficiency in test automation frameworks and scripting languages such as Python, Java, or PowerShell.
• An understanding of network infrastructure, protocols (e.g., TCP/IP, SIP, DNS), and telecom lab environments.
• Experience in process automation to streamline test execution, reporting, and defect triage aligned with network testing workflows

• Familiarity with network devices such as Cisco CPEs, Alcatel NTUs, and other carrier-grade equipment
• Proficient in using traffic generation and analysis tools like Ixia and Spirent for performance and stress testing.
• Practical experience with SD-WAN technologies, including configuration, validation, and performance testing.
• Demonstrated ability to design and develop independent APIs to support test automation and integration with network systems.
• Hands-on experience with CI/CD pipelines (e.g., Jenkins, GitLab CI), containerization (Docker), and infrastructure-as-code tools like Terraform.

Our goal is to celebrate our people, their lives and everything in-between. We aim to create a culture that empowers everyone to bring the best versions of themselves to work each and every day. We believe the most inclusive and diverse culture makes for a better business and a brighter world.

Working at Virgin Media O2, you get a bumper reward package bursting with benefits, and loads of extras you can add if you’d like to. These are designed to support both you and your loved ones, making sure that you’re covered no matter what life throws your way.

date. Once you've submitted an application the next steps of the process, if successful, are likely to include a technical and competency interview.

When you apply, you'll be asked about any adjustments you might need to support the recruitment process. Let us know, and we'll be sure to discuss it with you.

Please note: Applications will be reviewed, and interviews conducted throughout the duration of this advert, therefore we may bring the closing date forward. We encourage all interested applicants to apply as soon as possible. If you’re offered a job with us, it will be conditional, based on the passing of background checks. All roles require a criminal record check and some roles need a financial probity check. Your recruiter can provide you with more information if needed.

Thanks for your patience and for showing an interest in joining the Virgin Media O2 family.