Social Security Administration has listed a new Test Automation Engineer vacancy in Woodlawn, Maryland. The posted salary range is $143,913 to $197,200 per year. The position is classified as Flextime and Alternate Work Schedules are available and Permanent, with one opening available.
The application window closes on August 5, 2026, so there's time to prepare a strong application — but don't wait until the last minute.
Position Details at a Glance
Here's a quick summary of the key details:
| Hiring Agency | Social Security Administration |
| Department | Other Agencies and Independent Organizations |
| Job Title | Test Automation Engineer |
| Duty Station | Woodlawn, Maryland |
| Salary Range | $143,913 to $197,200 per year |
| Grade/Level | GS-14/15 |
| Work Schedule | Flextime and Alternate Work Schedules are available |
| Appointment Type | Permanent |
| Work Setting | On-site |
| Date Posted | February 6, 2026 |
| Application Deadline | August 5, 2026 |
What This Role Involves
According to the official posting, the position scope includes:
IT Specialist (APPSW) Test Automation Engineer position(s) are being filled through the Office of Personnel Management's delegated Direct Hire Authority, open to all U.S. citizens. Selections made under this bulletin will be processed as new appointments to the civil service. Current civil service employees would, therefore, be given new appointments to the civil service. Under the provisions of the Direct Hire Authority, Veterans Preference and the "Rule of Many" do not apply.
What the Day-to-Day Looks Like
serves as public notice. Applications submitted be placed into a pool and will remain on file for selection as positions become available. Vacancies may be filled for up to 6 months after the closing date of this announcement. Applicants may not receive notifications of referral status until the full 6-month eligibility period has elapsed. Positions filled with applications from this pool will be placed into positions where artificial intelligence duties occupy the majority of the work performed.
Who Should Apply
The position requires the following qualifications:
Resumes exceeding two pages in length will not be considered, please visit the new resume guidance for more information. Duties Design, develop, and maintain automated test scripts using cutting-edge tools like Selenium, Cucumber, and more. Implement Behavior Driven Development (BDD) practices, crafting clear and effective test scenarios in Gherkin syntax. Develop and execute API tests with Parasoft and Ready API to ensure seamless integration and performance. Integrate automated tests into CI/CD pipelines using Git and leading automation platforms. Collaborate with developers, business analysts, and QA team members to ensure comprehensive test coverage and alignment with requirements. Analyze test results, identify defects, and work closely with development teams to resolve issues quickly. Document test plans, test cases, and test results to maintain transparency and quality standards. Continuously improve test automation frameworks, processes, and best practices to stay ahead of indu...
What This Position Pays
The listed salary range is $143,913 to $197,200 per year at the GS-14/15 grade level. Actual compensation will depend on locality pay adjustments, qualifications, and negotiated step placement.
Federal benefits typically add 30-40% to base salary in total value. Key benefits include FEHB health insurance (~75% employer-paid), FERS pension, TSP with 5% match, 13-26 days annual leave, 13 sick days, and 11 paid holidays annually.
At $197,200, this position falls in the upper tier of federal compensation. Combined with benefits, total compensation likely exceeds $266,220 in equivalent value.
Ready to Apply?
Application steps: (1) Create or update your USAJobs.gov profile. (2) Review the complete announcement for qualification requirements and required documents. (3) Prepare a federal-format resume with detailed experience descriptions. (4) Submit all materials before August 5, 2026.
The federal hiring process typically takes 80-120 days from announcement close to start date. Plan accordingly.
View the full job announcement and apply here →
Frequently Asked Questions
What does this Test Automation Engineer position pay?
This position pays $143,913 to $197,200 per year. Keep in mind that this is base pay — locality adjustments could push the actual number higher depending on where you're located. The role is classified at the GS-14/15 level.
What qualifications do I need to apply?
You'll need to meet the specialized experience requirements outlined in the full announcement for the GS-14/15 level. Federal positions have specific qualification standards — review the announcement carefully to make sure your experience aligns before applying.
What's the application deadline?
Applications are due by August 5, 2026. We always recommend submitting at least a few days early — last-minute technical problems with USAJobs are not uncommon.
Can I work remotely?
This position is based in Woodlawn, Maryland and is currently listed as an on-site role. Telework and remote policies can vary, so it's worth asking about during the interview process.
What's the benefits package like?
The benefits are one of the best parts of federal employment. You get comprehensive health insurance through FEHB, a defined-benefit pension (FERS), TSP with a 5% match, generous leave accrual, and 11 paid holidays. Many people find the total package more valuable than a higher private-sector salary with fewer benefits.
Is this open to the public?
This position is open to: United States Citizens. Check the "Who May Apply" section of the full announcement for specific hiring paths. If you're a veteran, make sure to include your DD-214 and any applicable preference documentation.