The SDET is a critical role in modern software development teams, blending development and testing expertise to ensure the delivery of high-quality applications
As the demand for high-quality software continues to rise, SDETs play an essential part in streamlining testing processes, especially through automation.
While the core responsibilities of an SDET are similar worldwide, salary expectations, certifications, and career progression differ when comparing India to countries like the US and UK.
In this post, we’ll dive into the SDET role, outlining its key duties, salary ranges, career progression, and the various levels of positions both above and below the SDET role.
SDET Meaning
An SDET (Software Development Engineer in Test) is a specialized role that combines software development and testing expertise. SDETs create automated test scripts to ensure software quality and performance while integrating testing into the development lifecycle. This hybrid role helps improve software reliability, speed, and efficiency through automation.
You Should Also Read: automation testing interview questions
Understanding the SDET Role
An SDET is a hybrid role combining development and testing skills.
Their primary function is to create, implement, and manage automated test scripts that ensure the software performs according to both functional and non-functional requirements.
SDETs must be proficient in programming languages such as Java, Python, or C# and have a strong understanding of software development practices and test automation frameworks.
SDETs are responsible for identifying bugs, ensuring software quality, and contributing to the CI/CD pipeline to ensure faster delivery of updates.
In addition to writing code for test automation, SDETs track, resolve defects, and collaborate with developers, product managers, and other stakeholders to maintain high standards of quality.
SDET Responsibilities
- Test Automation: Developing and maintaining automated test scripts.
- Manual Testing: Conducting manual tests when required, especially for exploratory testing and UI/UX assessments.
- Collaboration: Working closely with developers and stakeholders to ensure smooth integration and quality software.
- Performance Testing: Ensuring software meets performance requirements.
- Troubleshooting: Identifying and fixing defects, bugs, and performance issues.
- CI/CD Integration: Integrating automated testing into CI/CD pipelines to increase efficiency and reduce manual intervention.
Career Path for SDETs
SDETs have several growth opportunities. As they gain experience, they can move into more senior roles or explore managerial positions.
Positions Above the SDET:
- Lead SDET: A senior position responsible for leading test automation strategies and guiding junior SDETs.
- Test Manager: Oversees testing teams, develops test strategies, and ensures that deadlines are met.
- Test Architect: Designs the test automation framework and ensures that best practices are followed across projects.
- Director of Quality Engineering: Manages the entire quality assurance and testing process, focusing on strategic decision-making.
Positions Below the SDET:
- Junior SDET/Trainee: Entry-level roles where individuals begin their career in test automation under mentorship.
- Test Engineer: Executes manual or automated tests but may not have the responsibility of developing automation scripts.
- Automation Tester: Focuses primarily on automating tests, without having a role in software development.
SDET Salary Comparison: India vs Abroad
The salary for SDETs varies significantly across different countries, and understanding these differences can provide valuable insights for those pursuing a career in test automation. Below is a breakdown of the typical salary ranges for SDETs in India, the US, and the UK.
SDET Salary in India
- Entry Level (₹5 – 7 LPA):
Fresh SDETs in India typically start with a salary ranging from ₹5-7 LPA (Lakhs Per Annum), which is common for individuals with less than two years of experience.
- Mid-Level (₹8 – 15 LPA):
After gaining a few years of experience, SDETs in India can expect to earn anywhere between ₹8-15 LPA. This applies to those with 3-5 years of experience in test automation and software development.
- Senior Level (₹20 LPA or more): Senior SDETs with over 5 years of experience can earn salaries upwards of ₹20 LPA or more, depending on their expertise, skillset, and the organization they work for.
SDET Salary in the US
- Entry Level ($70,000 – $90,000):
In the US, an entry-level SDET typically earns between $70,000 and $90,000 annually. This applies to fresh graduates or those with less than 2 years of experience.
- Mid Level ($100,000 – $120,000):
With 3-5 years of experience, SDETs in the US can expect to earn between $100,000 and $120,000 annually.
- Senior Level ($150,000 or more):
Senior SDETs in the US, particularly in high-demand regions such as Silicon Valley, can earn $150,000 or more annually, reflecting their advanced skills and experience.
SDET Salary in the UK
- Entry Level (£30,000 – £40,000):
A beginner SDET in the UK can earn between £30,000 and £40,000 annually, depending on their skills and the company.
- Mid Level (£50,000 – £70,000):
With 3-5 years of experience, SDETs in the UK can see their salaries rise to £50,000–£70,000 annually.
- Senior Level (£80,000 – £100,000):
Senior roles for SDETs in the UK may earn between £80,000 and £100,000 annually, reflecting their expertise and years of experience.
Popular Articles: api testing interview questions
Certifications for SDETs
Certifications can be highly beneficial for an SDET’s career, particularly in countries like the US and UK where they are often a requirement. Some of the key certifications include:
- ISTQB (International Software Testing Qualifications Board): This globally recognized certification demonstrates proficiency in software testing methodologies.
- Certified ScrumMaster (CSM): This certification is beneficial for SDETs working in Agile environments.
- Cloud Certifications: With the growing importance of cloud computing, certifications in AWS, Azure, or GCP can help SDETs stand out in cloud-based testing environments.
In India, while certifications can be helpful, hands-on experience tends to be more important, especially for smaller companies.
Conclusion
The SDET role is vital in ensuring high-quality software by blending development and testing skills. While the core duties of an SDET remain the same across regions, salary expectations, career progression, and certifications differ between India and countries like the US and UK. As the demand for test automation continues to rise, the SDET role is expected to evolve further, becoming an even more integral part of the software development process.
Whether you’re starting your career as an SDET, looking to move into a more senior or specialized position, or considering a software testing course in Chennai, the opportunities are vast. The role offers significant potential for growth, specialization, and advancement in an ever-evolving tech landscape.
FAQs
1. What is an SDET (Software Development Engineer in Test)?
An SDET is a hybrid role that combines development and testing expertise. SDETs are responsible for creating automated test scripts, ensuring the software meets functional and non-functional requirements, and integrating testing into the continuous integration/continuous deployment (CI/CD) pipeline. They play a key role in enhancing software quality and performance.
2. What are the main responsibilities of an SDET?
SDETs are responsible for:
-
Developing and maintaining automated test scripts.
-
Performing manual tests for exploratory and UI/UX testing.
-
Collaborating with developers and stakeholders.
-
Conducting performance testing.
-
Identifying and resolving defects and performance issues.
-
Integrating test automation into CI/CD pipelines to enhance software delivery.
3. How does the SDET role differ from a Software Tester?
An SDET has a broader scope than a traditional Software Tester. While Software Testers focus primarily on executing test cases, SDETs also contribute to the development of automation scripts and tools. SDETs often have a strong programming background and integrate test automation into the development process, whereas traditional testers may focus more on manual testing.
4. What certifications are beneficial for an SDET?
Some beneficial certifications for an SDET include:
-
ISTQB (International Software Testing Qualifications Board): Validates testing proficiency.
-
Certified ScrumMaster (CSM): Ideal for SDETs working in Agile environments.
-
Cloud Certifications (AWS, Azure, GCP): Essential for cloud-based testing.
-
Automation-Specific Certifications: Such as certifications in Selenium or TestNG.
5. What is the salary range for an SDET in India, the US, and the UK in 2025?
-
In India:
-
Entry-level: ₹5-7 LPA
-
Mid-level: ₹8-15 LPA
-
Senior-level: ₹20 LPA and above
-
-
In the US:
-
Entry-level: $70,000–$90,000
-
Mid-level: $100,000–$120,000
-
Senior-level: $150,000+
-
-
In the UK:
-
Entry-level: £30,000–£40,000
-
Mid-level: £50,000–£70,000
-
Senior-level: £80,000–£100,000
-
6. What is the career progression for an SDET?
An SDET can progress to various higher roles, including:
-
Lead SDET: Managing automation strategies and mentoring junior SDETs.
-
Test Manager: Overseeing the testing team and ensuring the timely delivery of projects.
-
Test Architect: Designing testing frameworks and enforcing best practices.
-
Director of Quality Engineering: Leading quality assurance and strategic testing decisions.
7. What are the differences in SDET salaries across different experience levels?
-
Entry-level SDETs: Typically earn ₹5-7 LPA in India, $70,000-$90,000 in the US, and £30,000-£40,000 in the UK.
-
Mid-level SDETs: Can expect ₹8-15 LPA in India, $100,000-$120,000 in the US, and £50,000-£70,000 in the UK.
-
Senior-level SDETs: Can earn upwards of ₹20 LPA in India, $150,000+ in the US, and £80,000-£100,000 in the UK.
8. What programming languages should an SDET be proficient in?
SDETs should be proficient in at least one programming language, typically Java, Python, or C#. These languages are commonly used for writing test automation scripts and integrating them into development workflows.
9. How does CI/CD impact the SDET role?
CI/CD (Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment) is crucial for SDETs as it enables the automated testing of code changes in real-time. SDETs integrate automated tests into the CI/CD pipeline to ensure that new code is thoroughly tested before it is deployed, improving the efficiency and speed of software delivery while maintaining high-quality standards.
10. What are the best tools for an SDET in 2025?
Some of the top tools for SDETs in 2025 include:
-
Selenium: Popular for web automation.
-
Playwright: A newer tool for browser automation.
-
JMeter: Ideal for performance and load testing.
-
Postman: Widely used for API testing.
-
Cucumber: Helps in BDD (Behavior-Driven Development) testing.
We Also Provide Training In:
- Advanced Selenium Training
- Playwright Training
- Gen AI Training
- AWS Training
- REST API Training
- Full Stack Training
- Appium Training
- DevOps Training
- JMeter Performance Training
Author’s Bio:
Content Writer at Testleaf, specializing in SEO-driven content for test automation, software development, and cybersecurity. I turn complex technical topics into clear, engaging stories that educate, inspire, and drive digital transformation.
Ezhirkadhir Raja
Content Writer – Testleaf
