Quality Assurance Analyst

Job Posting Title

Quality Assurance Analyst

Agency

695 OKLAHOMA TAX COMMISSION

Supervisory Organization

Quality Assurance

Job Posting End Date

Refer to the date listed at the top of this posting, if available. Continuous if date is blank.

Note: Applications will be accepted until 11:59 PM on the day prior to the posting end date above.

Estimated Appointment End Date (Continuous if Blank)

Full/Part-Time

Full time

Job Type

Regular

Compensation

Job Description

Quality Assurance Analyst

Salary Range-$60, $75,000.00

Why you'll love it here

TRANSPARENCY. FAIRNESS. COMPLIANCE. The Oklahoma Tax Commission is committed to leading Oklahoma with unparalleled customer service. Our mission is to promote tax compliance through serving taxpayers with transparency and fairness in administration of the tax code and unparalleled customer service.Check out our

About Us

page to learn why we are passionate about tax compliance and believe it is the career for you

There are perks to working for the OTC. We know that benefits matter, and that is why we offer a competitive

benefits package

for all eligible employees:

• Generous state-paid

benefit allowance

to help cover insurance premiums.
- A wide choice of

insurance plans

with no pre-existing condition exclusions or limitations.
- Flexible spending accounts for health care expenses and/or dependent care.
- A

Retirement Savings Plan

with a generous match.
- 15 days of paid vacation and 15 days of sick leave for full-time employees the first year.
- 11 paid holidays a year.
- Paid Maternity leave for eligible employees.
- Employee discounts with a variety of companies and venders.
- A Longevity Bonus for years of service.

JOB SUMMARY

The Quality Assurance Analyst plays a critical role in safeguarding the reliability, security, and integrity of the agency's digital platforms. This is achieved by designing and executing comprehensive test strategies and partnering with internal teams and external vendors (such as FAST) throughout the software development lifecycle (SDLC). The QA Analyst is responsible for identifying defects, advocating for continuous quality improvements, and ensuring the delivery of taxpayer-ready products. By driving a quality-first mindset and fostering cross-functional collaboration, this role directly contributes to the successful deployment of innovative solutions and advances agency service excellence.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop, document, and execute comprehensive test cases for new and existing software products, including detailed functional, regression, integration, and performance testing. This also involves creating and executing automated test scripts (when applicable) to streamline testing processes and improve efficiency, ensuring software adherence to specifications, and identifying defects.
• Proactively identify, log, and meticulously track software defects, ensuring all identified issues are resolved and verified before product release.
• Utilize defect management systems and test management tools to track, manage, and report defects throughout the testing process, and generate detailed defect reports, tracking them through resolution.
• Actively collaborate with development teams to ensure high-quality software throughout the development lifecycle, participating in problem-solving, root cause analysis, and solution validation.
• Coordinate with development teams to set up and maintain test environments that accurately reflect production environments.
• Facilitate test coordination with other divisions, ensuring seamless and synchronized testing efforts across interconnected systems and teams, and managing cross-team dependencies.
• Communicate test results, detailed defect reports, and potential risks clearly and concisely to the development team, project managers, and other relevant stakeholders.
• Champion quality best practices and advocate for a quality-first mindset throughout the entire software development lifecycle, from requirements gathering to deployment.
• Continuously evaluate and suggest improvements to testing processes and tools to enhance the efficiency, coverage, and effectiveness of the QA function.
• Proactively identify potential areas of improvement in the software development lifecycle to enhance overall product quality and reduce future defects.
• Assist in preparing User Acceptance Testing (UAT) sessions and coordinate with business users for final testing to ensure the product meets specific user needs and expectations.
• Build and manage comprehensive test data, with occasional collaboration with developers, ensuring its integrity and relevance for accurate and thorough testing scenarios.
• Consistently contribute to optimizing agency operations by identifying opportunities to streamline workflows and enhancing overall taxpayer service delivery.
• Diligently identify challenges, analyze complex situations, and contribute innovative solutions, fostering a culture where processes and outcomes are constantly refined and enhanced.
• Actively participate in and support various Innovation projects and divisional efforts, ensuring all assigned tasks directly contribute to the broader strategic objectives and transformative goals of the Innovation Division.
• Consistently apply established methodologies, frameworks, and industry best practices in all tasks, ensuring high quality, reliability, and consistency in deliverables.
• Maintain clear, concise, and accurate records of work.
• Perform other duties as assigned, contributing to the overall success and initiatives of the Innovation division.

COMPLEXITY OF KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Knowledge of

• In-depth knowledge of software testing methodologies, including black-box, white-box, and grey-box testing, and their practical application across different phases of the SDLC.
• Expertise in test planning, test case design techniques (e.g., boundary value analysis, equivalence partitioning), and robust test execution strategies.
• Thorough understanding of defect tracking and management processes, including the defect lifecycle and severity/priority classifications.
• Specific testing tools and technologies used for test management, automation, and performance testing.
• Strong grasp of quality assurance principles and best practices, including adherence to industry standards like ISTQB.
• Understanding of performance and security testing concepts and the tools used to execute them.
• Familiarity with standard SDLC methodologies, such as Agile and Waterfall, providing essential context for project execution and understanding the technical landscape within the Innovation Division.
• A general understanding of core hardware components, operating systems, databases, and software applications relevant to supporting agency operations and analytical tasks.
• XML, schema definition, and validation techniques for data structures and system integrations.
• A comprehensive grasp of how information and data move throughout the organization, and how these insights are leveraged to inform and influence strategic management decisions.
• Ethical data handling practices, including data privacy (e.g., IRS PUB 1075) and responsible AI principles.
• An awareness of how technological capabilities can be harnessed to optimize business processes, balanced with a clear understanding of inherent system limitations to inform realistic solution design.
• A fundamental understanding of the techniques and principles involved in effectively eliciting business needs, documenting requirements, and clearly defining processes.
• General knowledge of the distinct phases and management practices involved in bringing projects and software from conception to completion.
• A commitment to staying informed about relevant industry developments and cutting-edge technologies that could potentially impact or enhance the agency's operations and strategic direction.

Skills in

• Analyzing user requirements and designing effective, comprehensive test cases that cover all functional and non-functional aspects of software.
• Expertise in executing various types of testing, including functional, regression, integration, and performance testing, with precision and meticulous attention to detail.
• Proficiency in utilizing testing tools and technologies, including test automation frameworks, to streamline testing processes and improve efficiency.
• Ability to apply knowledge of XMLs, schemas, and validation techniques to test data and system interfaces.
• The ability to discern patterns, interpret complex data, analyze intricate situations, and apply rigorous critical thought to solve multifaceted problems effectively.
• Demonstrated capability to systematically identify, thoroughly document, and efficiently track software defects using established defect management systems, contributing to a culture of continuous improvement.
• The skill to convey intricate information clearly, concisely, and persuasively to diverse audiences (development teams, stakeholders), adapting communication styles to ensure comprehension and engagement.
• Proven ability to work seamlessly within a team environment, actively collaborating with colleagues from various backgrounds and skill sets to achieve shared objectives.
• Adept at facilitating discussions and meetings related to test planning, defect triage, and test result reviews with development teams and stakeholders to drive issue resolution.
• Expertise in effectively prioritizing tasks, adeptly managing multiple responsibilities, and meticulously organizing work to meet competing deadlines and optimize productivity.
• A proactive willingness and demonstrated ability to rapidly acquire new knowledge, master emerging tools and technologies, and adapt to evolving methodologies and dynamic work environments.

Ability to

• Actively advocate for quality and promote best practices across the development lifecycle, effectively influencing teams towards a quality-first approach.
• Quickly learn and apply new technologies, testing methodologies, and tools to adapt to evolving project needs and dynamic work environments.
• Effectively manage workload, adapt quickly to changing requirements, and maintain productivity and composure in a fast-paced and evolving operational setting.
• Exhibit a meticulous approach to all tasks, ensuring high levels of precision, thoroughness, and reliability in all work products and data handling.
• Accurately understand, interpret, and consistently adhere to organizational guidelines, policies, and standard operating procedures to ensure compliance and consistency.
• Efficiently perform tasks autonomously, taking ownership of individual responsibilities, while simultaneously functioning as a strong and supportive team player within collaborative efforts.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience requirements at this level consist of:

• A bachelor's degree in business administration, information systems, or a related field.
• PLUS, two (2) years of hands-on experience in software quality assurance, including experience with various testing methodologies.
• OR an equivalent combination of education and experience.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Preference will be given to candidates demonstrating or possessing:

• ISTQB Foundation Level or Advanced certification, or equivalent.
• Proven experience with automated testing frameworks and scripting languages (e.g., Selenium, Python).
• Hands-on experience with Agile and Waterfall methodologies.
• Proficiency with test management and defect tracking tools.
• Experience collaborating with external vendors (such as FAST) on large-scale technology or business transformation projects.
• Familiarity with quality management frameworks (e.g., ISO 9001, CMMI, ISTQB).

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Ability to sit and stand for extended periods of time. Exhibit manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination to operate a computer, keyboard, photocopier, telephone, calculator, and other office equipment. Ability to see and read a computer screen and printed material with or without vision aids. Ability to hear and understand speech at normal levels, with or without aids. Ability to communicate clearly. Physical ability to lift up to 15 pounds, bend, stoop, climb stairs, walk, and reach. Must use the proper manual handling equipment, including but not limited to dollies, carts, and lift team members. Duties are normally performed in an office environment with a moderate noise level.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Travel may be required for this position. Applicants must have reliable transportation and be willing and able to perform all job-related travel. Possession and maintenance of a valid Oklahoma State Driver's License is also required.

The Oklahoma Tax Commission's normal work hours are Monday through Friday, 7:30am to 4:30pm. This schedule may require minor flexibility based on the needs of the agency.

Telework may be required based on the needs of the agency, division, and section. If applicable, applicant must be willing and able to work BOTH on-site and telework at an off-site location, generally in the applicant's home. Applicant must have a secure internet connection and a dedicated telephone (landline) or smart phone device during scheduled working hours.

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

All offers of employment will be contingent upon successful completion of a fingerprint-based background check, reference check and federal and state tax compliance check.

Equal Opportunity Employment

The State of Oklahoma is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of genetic information, race, religion, color, sex, age, national origin, or disability.

Current active State of Oklahoma employees must apply for open positions internally through the Workday

Jobs Hub

.

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