Test Manager

Test Manager job description

The Test Manager leads the end-to-end testing strategy, planning, and execution across technology projects, ensuring solutions meet quality standards and comply with New Zealand regulatory frameworks. This role manages testing teams, processes, and environments to support reliable and secure software delivery.

Test Manager duties and responsibilities of the job

Key responsibilities of a Test Manager include:

Developing and executing test strategies, plans, and governance frameworks for projects and releases

Managing test teams across manual, automation, functional, and non-functional testing streams

Overseeing test environments, data preparation, and test execution activities

Ensuring compliance with the NZ Privacy Act, ISO 27001, and secure testing standards

Collaborating with project managers, developers, and business stakeholders to define testing scope and quality metrics

Managing defect lifecycle and ensuring timely resolution of issues

Coordinating UAT and production readiness activities with internal teams and vendors

Reporting on test progress, risks, and outcomes to senior stakeholders

Driving continuous improvement in test processes, tools, and team capability

Test Manager job qualifications and requirements

A degree in information technology, computer science, or a related field is required. ISTQB Advanced Test Manager or equivalent certification is strongly preferred.

Requirements include:

7+ years’ experience in software testing, including 3+ years in a leadership or management role

Proven ability to lead testing for large-scale or complex technology projects

Experience with test management and defect tracking tools (e.g. Azure DevOps, JIRA, TestRail)

Strong understanding of New Zealand-specific privacy and compliance standards in testing

Excellent leadership, planning, and stakeholder engagement skills

Ability to manage testing across both agile and traditional project delivery environments

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Salary for Test Manager

130000 - 160000

25th Percentile

130000

The candidate has little or no prior experience in the position and is still developing relevant skills.

50th Percentile

145000

The candidate has an average level of experience and has most of the necessary skills.

75th Percentile

160000

The candidate has above-average experience, has most or all the necessary skills and may have specialised qualifications.

Salary range based on three percentiles The starting salaries represent gross yearly salaries. They do not include bonuses, benefits or KiwiSaver.

Projected salaries for related positions

Position title

25th Percentile

50th Percentile

75th Percentile

Manual Test Analyst

70000

85000

100000

Senior Manual Test Analyst

110000

120000

130000

Automation Test Analyst

80000

95000

110000

Senior Automation Test Analyst

120000

135000

145000

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