Database Validation Specialist

We are looking to add a Database Validation Specialist to our team of talented professionals. This will be a hybrid role based out of Woodlawn, MD and require you to reside close for possible in office workdays.

The Database Validation Specialist is responsible for developing and maintaining validation databases and automated techniques for effective and efficient conduct of systems and acceptance testing.

• Designs, develops, implements, and executes test automation software, tools, utilities, and test databases for use in conducting systems and acceptance testing and independent verification and validation activities.
• Prepares, writes, and reviews validation protocols and documentation to ensure compliance with and adherence to the Software Process Improvement (SPI) group standard processes and procedures.
• Provides on-going support for Agency standard testing tools, both COTS and Agency developed.
• Provides customization of testing tools to meet functional area requirements.
• Provides support for designing systems and test architecture(s) (e.g., driver scripts, data stores, etc.); and provides expertise necessary for the expansion of existing Agency standard software tools, such as Quick Test Pro and Quality Center.
• Provides validation support for the following activities: contributing to technical briefing and reports; participating in meetings and walkthroughs; analyzing problems and providing solutions; providing user support; and conducting research.
• Contributes to recommendations and solutions for complex problems throughout all phases of the Systems Development Life Cycle (SDLC).

Required Qualifications:

• 0 years with BS/BA; 2 years with AS/AA; 4 years experience with HS Diploma/equivalent.
• Demonstrates the ability to provide an automated system to generate and/or select a proper set of records to thoroughly test and validate all programs, subsystems, and systems.
• Demonstrates the experience and ability to design and develop detailed test procedure specifications for automated execution of system test cycles and simulations.
• Demonstrates the experience and ability to work without technical oversight and to lead and/or supervise a team of specialists.
• Leads and/or directs the efforts of specialists on project(s).
• Designs and develops detailed test automation software that simulates the production system for test purposes and includes test automation software components such as COBOL, JCL, JCL Procs, Control-M Schedules and Tables, Command Lists (IBM CLIST language), REXX, Visual Basic and Structured Query Language, and others.
• Executes test cycles according to test plans and test procedure specifications using test automation software, tools, and utilities; and monitors the test cycle for correctness and completeness.
• Evaluates the requirements for test databases and files for independent verification and validation activities and assures that test file specifications accurately reflect Operational files.
• Consults with performance requirements developers and providers of system services to assure compatibility of procedures and technology and provide advice and assistance in their use.
• Maintains contact with users to provide advisory services, conduct validation studies, conduct training, identify problem areas, and determine feasibility of new or modified processes; responds to user recommendations for areas of responsibility.
• Possesses superior oral and written communications skills to clearly and effectively convey issues, reports, and other deliverables to Agency counterparts.
• Must reside close to Woodlawn, MD for possible in office days.
• US Citizenship is required.
• Must be able to obtain a Public Trust clearance.
• Must be able to pass the programs suitability review.

Desired Qualifications:

• Bachelors Degree preferred.
• Must possess data analysis/management skills.
• Experience with development of major projects, studies, and other assignments to evaluate and develop automated techniques and databases for improved effectiveness of independent verification and validation activities.
• Knowledge of requirements-based testing, and automation of test tools such as WINRUNNER, TSL scripting language, Quality Center, Test Director, QTP with SPUFI, QMF, Fileaid for DB2, and other DB2 query tools.