Junior Cloud Security Validation Engineer

We're looking for a skilled and motivated Cloud Security Validation Engineer with strong experience in Java, using Selenide or Selenium, to join our team at Upwind- a fast-growing cloud security startup. This role is focused primarily on automation (80%), with some manual testing (20%).

This is a startup environment: priorities shift quickly, release cycles are tight, and you'll often be juggling several testing efforts at once. The ideal candidate thrives under this kind of pressure- someone who is stress-resilient, comfortable working in short time frames and rapid iteration cycles, and skilled at prioritizing effectively when multiple tasks compete for attention.

The ideal candidate has solid knowledge of software testing methodologies, experience building and maintaining automation frameworks for web applications, and a genuine interest in cloud computing and security- since our product operates directly in that space.

This is a fully remote position.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and maintain automated test scripts using Java (Selenide or Selenium) for web applications.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (dev, product, DevOps) to understand fast- changing requirements and ensure adequate test coverage under tight deadlines.
• Design, implement, and execute automated test cases to verify functionality, performance, and scalability of web applications.
• Identify, prioritize, and report defects, working closely with development teams to drive resolution — often across multiple concurrent workstreams.
• Participate in test planning, estimation, and review sessions, adapting quickly as priorities evolve.
• Continuously improve and refactor automation test suites for speed, stability, and maintainability.
• Apply sound judgment to prioritize testing efforts when time and resources are constrained.
• Stay current with industry trends in test automation, cloud technologies, DevOps practices, and cybersecurity.

Requirements

• Minimum 1 year of commercial (paid, professional) experience as an AQA Engineer or similar role — required.
• Strong proficiency in Java and familiarity with Selenide or Selenium WebDriver.
• Basic understanding of OOP concepts.
• Experience developing and executing automated test suites for web applications.
• Proficiency in web technologies: HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and HTTP protocols.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with excellent attention to detail and the ability to prioritize effectively under pressure.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a fast-paced, high-ambiguity startup environment — comfortable handling multiple parallel tasks and shifting priorities without losing quality.
• Stress resilience and adaptability; able to stay focused and effective under short deadlines.