Stephen Karanja

Results-driven Test Automation Engineer with 6+ years of progressive experience building reliable, scalable testing solutions across web and API-driven systems. My journey began in manual QA and data annotation, where I developed a sharp eye for detail and data quality. I transitioned into automation engineering, designing frameworks that reduced regression cycles and accelerated releases.

I bring a unique blend of engineering discipline and language intelligence, shaped by advanced academic training and hands-on AI data work. This enables me to interpret requirements precisely, design robust test scenarios, and ensure clarity in complex, multilingual environments. I thrive in distributed teams, communicate effectively with developers and stakeholders, and consistently deliver high-quality, production-ready results.

Senior Test Automation Engineer at Freelance / Remote (2021-01 – Present)

Designed and implemented automation frameworks for web applications using Selenium and Python. Reduced manual testing effort by over 60% through automation strategies. Integrated automated tests into CI/CD pipelines for continuous testing.

• Designed and implemented automation frameworks for web applications using Selenium and Python
• Reduced manual testing effort by over 60% through automation strategies
• Integrated automated tests into CI/CD pipelines for continuous testing
• Conducted API testing and validation using Postman and REST tools
• Performed regression, smoke, and end-to-end testing for production releases
• Collaborated with developers to identify and resolve defects early

Test Automation Engineer at Test Automation Engineer (2018-01 – 2021-12)

Developed and maintained automated test scripts for UI and backend systems. Executed test cases and reported bugs using Jira. Performed cross-browser and cross-platform testing.

• Developed and maintained automated test scripts for UI and backend systems
• Executed test cases and reported bugs using Jira
• Performed cross-browser and cross-platform testing
• Assisted in building test strategies and improving QA processes
• Participated in Agile/Scrum teams for continuous delivery

QA Analyst / Data Annotation Specialist at QA Analyst / Data Annotation Specialist (2017-01 – 2018-12)

Conducted manual testing of applications and documented defects. Supported AI projects through data annotation and labeling tasks. Performed audio transcription and dataset validation.

• Conducted manual testing of applications and documented defects
• Supported AI projects through data annotation and labeling tasks
• Performed audio transcription and dataset validation
• Ensured high accuracy and adherence to annotation guidelines

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Languages and Interdisciplinary Studies – University of Nairobi (2021-01 – 2026-12)