IT Quality Assurance Analyst

Quality Assurance Analyst Nelnet is a diversified and innovative company committed to enriching lives through the power of service as a student loan servicer, professional services company, consumer loan originator and servicer, payments processor, renewable energy solutions, and K-12 and higher education expert. For over 40 years, Nelnet has been serving its customers, associates, and communities. The perks of working at Nelnet go beyond our benefits package. When you join the Nelnet team, you're part of a community invested in the success of each individual. That support comes through in our work, as we are united by our mission of creating opportunities for people where they live, learn, and work. We are seeking a detail-oriented Quality Assurance Analyst to support a state agency's workforce initiative to expand Unemployment Insurance (UI) Account Numbers from 6 to 9 digits. This role will be critical in validating the integrity, performance, and security of modified legacy systems, ensuring that all changes meet acceptance criteria and regulatory standards. Responsibilities: Collaborate with developers and business analysts to design and execute test plans for COBOL, CICS, DB2, and batch components. Perform unit, integration, regression, and user acceptance testing (UAT) across multiple environments. Automate test cycles using tools such as 3270 emulator software and IBM InfoSphere Optim Test Data Management Solution. Compare test results between legacy and updated systems to validate consistency and correctness. Document test cases, results, defects, and resolutions. Coordinate with client stakeholders to align testing efforts with project milestones and deployment schedules. Ensure testing environments are properly configured and maintained. Support the final go/no-go decision process through comprehensive test reporting and validation. Pay Rate: This is a contract position contingent upon project needs, with a compensation range of $72$77 per hour. Please note that this role is not eligible for Nelnet's benefits package. Education: Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science and/or commensurate experience. Experience: Minimum 3 years of experience in software quality assurance or testing roles. Strong understanding of mainframe systems and testing methodologies. Experience with: COBOL, CICS, DB2, JCL, 3270 emulator tools (e.g., OpenText Hummingbird), IBM InfoSphere Optim Test Data Management Solution. Familiarity with automated testing frameworks and regression testing strategies. Ability to analyze and validate data transformations and field expansions. Experience in UAT coordination and execution. Strong documentation and communication skills. Competencies Skills/Knowledge/Abilities: Analytical mindset with a focus on detail and accuracy. Ability to work independently and collaboratively in cross-functional teams. Experience with government or public sector systems is a plus. Familiarity with secure coding and testing practices. Comfortable working in Agile or Kanban environments. Proactive in identifying risks and proposing mitigation strategies. Nelnet is committed to providing a welcoming and respectful workplace where all associates have the opportunity to succeed. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we ensure that all qualified applicants are considered for employment. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion/creed, national origin, gender, sex, marital status, age, disability, use of a guide dog or service animal, sexual orientation, military/veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law. We value the unique contributions of every team member and believe that a positive work environment benefits everyone.