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John Escobedo

John Escobedo

QA Test Lead, UAT Lead QA Test Analyst, QA Manual Tester

16506 Fetching, Manor, Texas, US, 78653
(512) 299-3269
English, Spanish, ASL

Background


About

About

Senior QA Test Lead with a track record of taking full ownership of the software quality lifecycle, from founding QA departments in startup environments to leading testing for high-stakes government projects. Over 18 years of experience in full-stack testing, process implementation, and cross-functional team leadership. A skilled communicator who excels at bridging the gap between technical teams and business stakeholders, ensuring clear alignment on quality goals and project requirements. Trilingual in English, Spanish, and American Sign Language.

Work Experience

Work Experience

  • Robot Operator, Insight Global

    Jul, 2025 - Sep, 20252 months

    Leveraged extensive VR expertise to directly operate humanoid robots for Apptronik, playing a key role in a fast-paced development cycle. Responsibilities included VR-based operation, environmental staging, and rigorous documentation of issues and processes. Demonstrated extreme adaptability to excel in a novel, process-light environment, directly supporting high-priority company initiatives through consistent achievement of data collection goals.

    • Operate and control humanoid robots in real-time using advanced VR systems to execute complex tasks and support the development of next-generation automation.

    • Prepare and stage physical testing environments to precise specifications, ensuring optimal conditions for robotic performance and data collection.

    • Meticulously document and track software bugs, hardware malfunctions, and performance anomalies in a detailed issue-tracking database, providing critical data to the engineering team.

    • Develop and refine troubleshooting protocols and standard operating procedures (SOPs) in a rapidly evolving environment, ensuring documentation remains accurate and up-to-date.

    • Contribute directly to high-visibility initiatives by consistently meeting daily and weekly team goals for data collection and operational testing.

  • Senior QA Test Lead | QA Analyst, GeekSI

    Mar, 2019 - Jun, 20256 years 4 months

    Senior contractor providing comprehensive QA testing and test leadership across multiple mission-critical projects for the Veterans Affairs over a 6-year engagement. Subject matter expert in government software testing, 508 accessibility compliance, and modernizing legacy testing processes with Agile methodologies.

    • Led the full testing lifecycle for the VA Telehealth Hub MVP: built the initial test plan, standardized SOPs, created the UAT framework, and championed Agile adoption to replace legacy Waterfall processes.

    • Directed 508 compliance and accessibility testing for flagship VA software, including the Advanced Medical Platform (AMPL), utilizing JAWS screen reader to ensure adherence to strict government standards.

    • Served as the Subject Matter Expert (SME) for the Traumatic Brain Injury module within the Veterans Integrated Registries Platform (VIRP), managing the Requirement Traceability Matrix and expanding a comprehensive library of regression tests.

    • Engineered and maintained test cases and scripts within IBM Rational Team Concert for the VA Home Loan system (LGY), auditing and validating automated tests built with Cucumber and Selenium.

    • Modernized testing protocols across all projects, enforcing reproducible testing patterns and leveraging MUMPS CLI for test data creation in government healthcare systems.

    • Tested a diverse array of platforms including web applications, mainframes, Linux machines, and mobile devices (Android, iOS).

  • QA Test Lead, EverlyWell

    Jun, 2018 - Oct, 20183 months

    As the primary QA Test Lead, established the initial quality assurance process for EverlyWell's health test services, where customers managed lab results through a secure online portal. Took ownership of JIRA administration, configuring the system to support a new cross-team CI/CD workflow.

    • As the initial QA resource, integrated the first formal QA process into the software development cycle for the health test service platform.

    • Served as the JIRA administrator, customizing projects, workflows, and fields to align with and facilitate a new cross-team Agile and CI/CD process.

    • Developed and maintained the QA pipeline to support continuous integration and deployment, managing risk for new feature releases.

    • Performed all testing for new website features across all major browsers and mobile devices, including Android, iOS, and the iOS Simulator.

    • Mentored team members on effective bug writing and QA practices to foster a culture of quality across the organization.

  • QA Test Lead | QA Analyst, YouScience

    Jul, 2017 - Jun, 201810 months

    Served as the sole QA employee, responsible for establishing and managing the quality assurance process for the company's flagship online career and education assessment tool. Worked cross-functionally to integrate QA into the development cycle, ensuring the stability and quality of all weekly releases.

    • As the only QA resource, built the QA process from the ground up and integrated it into the existing software development lifecycle.

    • Developed the complete QA framework, including test procedures, test case scenarios, and standards for verification, integration, and regression testing.

    • Managed all testing for the flagship web application, performing cross-browser testing via BrowserStack and testing on Android and iOS devices.

    • Created and maintained test case scenarios and product documentation to support new feature releases and ensure consistent quality.

    • Established standardized templates for bug reports and user stories to improve clarity and streamline communication with development teams.

  • QA Analyst | QA Engineer, Luna Data Solutions

    May, 2015 - May, 20172 years

    Contracted as a QA Analyst for RetailMeNot, focusing on the launch of new e-commerce features and ensuring site stability. Enhanced testing efficiency through custom automation tooling, analytics validation, and standardized data suites, while providing direct production support for a high-traffic website.

    • Led QA for the rollout of new gift card purchasing features and conducted extensive regression testing for the RetailMeNot e-commerce platform.

    • Authored and updated code for the internal automated test system, improving its efficiency and reliability for the development team.

    • Engineered custom JavaScript tools to validate and ensure the accuracy of site-wide analytics implementation and data integrity.

    • Developed and standardized the smoke testing data suite to guarantee consistency and reliability across all testing environments.

    • Served as a key member of the Production Support on Duty (PSOD) rotation, providing timely investigation and resolution for live site issues.

  • QA Test Lead, QA Analyst, Communication Services for the Deaf

    May, 2013 - Jan, 20151 year 8 months

    Developed and implemented the inaugural QA process for the 'Vineya' web-video platform, a critical accessibility solution providing interpreting services for the Deaf and hard-of-hearing community. Acquired conversational American Sign Language (ASL) and cultural competency to effectively collaborate and ensure the product met the needs of its users.

    • Pioneered the quality assurance function from the ground up, creating the initial test procedures and automation framework for the GoVineya.com Ruby on Rails web application.

    • Applied acquired American Sign Language skills and understanding of Deaf cultural norms to collaborate effectively with the team and inform a culturally-aware testing approach.

    • Managed the full testing lifecycle for release cycles, including creating test plans, executing test runs, and reporting on results for both web and mobile app versions.

    • Engineered the testing environment by configuring VirtualBox to enable cross-browser testing of Internet Explorer on OSX machines.

  • Lead QA Tester, DocbookMD

    Jul, 2012 - Apr, 20139 months

    As the sole QA professional and founding member of the quality assurance function, established the entire QA process for the company's HIPAA-compliant messaging app for physicians. Led testing efforts across the entire mobile ecosystem, including iPhones, iPads, and Android devices, ensuring the security and reliability of patient data.

    • Founded and single-handedly operated the QA department, introducing and standardizing the first formal QA process for the company's flagship HIPAA-compliant messaging app.

    • As the sole tester, performed all functional, regression, and compliance testing on the full range of supported devices: real iPhones, iPads, Android tablets, and the iOS Simulator.

    • Developed the initial test strategy, authored comprehensive test suites, and enforced testing protocols to ensure software met rigorous quality standards before release.

    • Guaranteed the application's adherence to strict HIPAA compliance regulations for the secure transmission of patient health information.

    • Scaled the QA function by managing and mentoring new testers, subsequently building and leading a local testing team.

  • QA Test Lead | QA Tester, Luna Data Solutions

    Aug, 2011 - Apr, 20128 months

    Contracted as a QA Tester and rapidly promoted to Test Lead for Heatwave Interactive, assuming responsibility for the quality of multiple game titles. Authored test plans, led a testing team, and executed rigorous testing cycles to improve game stability and user experience.

    • Contracted as a QA Tester and promoted to Test Lead for Heatwave Interactive, working on 'Gods and Heroes: Rome Rising' and 'Platinum Life: Country'.

    • Executed daily testing of game builds for core functionality, gameplay mechanics, and UI integrity.

    • Authored comprehensive test plans for smoke and regression testing cycles, improving test coverage.

    • Led and mentored a team of testers, providing guidance on bug reporting and test execution best practices.

  • Game Master (Technical Support & Customer Service), Blizzard Entertainment

    Jul, 2010 - Jul, 20111 year

    Provided advanced technical support and customer service for the 'World of Warcraft' MMO, serving as a frontline investigator for complex in-game issues, fraud, and exploitation. Developed exceptional skills in problem-solving, data analysis, and customer communication within a high-volume, live-service environment.

    • Investigated and diagnosed a high volume of complex technical and gameplay issues, utilizing analytical skills to identify root causes and implement solutions.

    • Restored compromised player accounts and inventories with precision, adhering to strict security and data integrity protocols.

    • Analyzed and documented cases of fraud and exploitation of game mechanics, providing detailed reports for development teams.

    • Delivered expert support via live chat and ticket systems, effectively communicating technical solutions to a diverse user base.

    • Developed a deep understanding of live service operations and the player support lifecycle for a large-scale, always-on application.

  • QA Analyst | Customer Support & Tools Specialist, Linden Lab

    Mar, 2007 - Jun, 20103 years 2 months

    Progressed through a series of promotions from frontline support to QA Analyst for the complex virtual world of Second Life. Culminated in a QA role testing daily builds and diagnosing critical issues, building upon a strong foundation in customer support, tool development, and live service management.

    • Promoted to QA Analyst after demonstrating exceptional technical and diagnostic skills in prior support roles; responsible for testing daily software builds, tracking bugs, and diagnosing complex in-world issues.

    • Authored custom in-world diagnostic and tracking tools using Linden Scripting Language (LSL), enhancing the efficiency of issue resolution for both support and QA teams.

    • Served as a frontline First Responder, managing in-world emergencies, enforcing Terms of Service, and resolving user conflicts within a large-scale, live online environment.

    • Played a key role in establishing and providing customer support initiatives using the Parature ticket system and live text chat, supporting a seamless user experience.

    • Rapidly promoted from part-time to full-time and again to a senior support role, based on consistent performance and initiative before final promotion to the QA department.

  • QA Tester, Super Happy Fun Fun

    Nov, 2006 - Feb, 20073 months

    Performed cross-platform compatibility testing for mobile games and applications on a diverse library of hundreds of feature phones, including the popular Motorola Razr. Navigated the complexities of pre-smartphone mobile development by validating software performance across major manufacturers like Nokia, Samsung, Sony Ericsson, and LG Electronics.

    • Executed comprehensive functional and compatibility testing for J2ME-based mobile games and applications across a vast inventory of 100+ unique feature phone models.

    • Managed testing on a wide array of devices and platforms, including Nokia, Samsung, Sony Ericsson, Motorola (including the Razr), and LG Electronics, to ensure broad market compatibility.

    • Identified, documented, and tracked platform-specific bugs using the Mantis bug tracker, providing critical data to developers for issue resolution.

    • Supported the full product lifecycle for multiple titles, from initial testing through production and post-release support and troubleshooting.

    • Gained early expertise in the challenges of fragmented mobile environments, developing strategies for efficient testing across disparate hardware and software platforms.

  • QA Test Lead, QA Game Tester, Aspyr Media

    Feb, 2006 - Nov, 20069 months

    Executed rigorous quality assurance testing for high-profile video game titles being ported to the Mac platform. Gained foundational expertise in the software development lifecycle by documenting defects, validating fixes, and ensuring a seamless user experience for a new audience.

    • Performed functional, compatibility, and regression testing on ports of major game titles (including Call of Duty 2, Civilization IV) from Windows to the macOS environment.

    • Authored and maintained detailed test plans and test suites to guide a team of testers, establishing organized testing protocols.

    • Utilized JIRA and DevTrack to meticulously document, track, and verify software defects, providing developers with clear and actionable bug reports.

    • Conducted extensive proofreading of in-game text and UI elements to ensure linguistic accuracy and quality for the final release.

    • Collaborated closely with the development team to isolate and reproduce issues specific to the Mac port, contributing to stable product launches.

Skills

Skills

  • Testing Methodologies & Frameworks

    Agile Testing

    Scrum

    Regression Testing

    Integration Testing

    Smoke Testing

    Ad-hoc Testing

    SDLC

    User Acceptance Testing

    Test Planning

    Test Case Design

    Requirement Traceability Matrix

    CI/CD Testing

    Waterfall

  • Accessibility & Compliance Testing

    508 Compliance

    WCAG Guidelines

    JAWS Screen Reader

    Accessibility Testing

    HIPAA Compliance

    Government Standards

  • Test Management & Documentation

    JIRA

    JIRA Xray

    TestRail

    IBM Rational Team Concert

    DevTrack

    Mantis Bug Tracker

    Parature

    Bug Reporting

    SOP Development

    Risk Management

  • Platform & Environment Testing

    Web Applications

    Mobile Apps (iOS/Android)

    Desktop Software

    Cross-browser Testing

    Gaming Platforms

    Ruby on Rails Applications

    Single Page Applications

    PC and Mac Software

    REST API Testing

  • Tools & Technologies

    Chrome Developer Tools

    GitHub

    VirtualBox

    jQuery

    Analytics Validation

    Database Testing

    Command Line Interfaces

    Virtual Environments

    JavaScript

    HTML

    CSS

    JSON

    SQL

    JQL

    Cucumber

    LSL (Linden Scripting Language)

  • Operating Systems & Devices

    Windows

    macOS

    iOS

    iOS Simulator

    Android

    Cross-platform Testing

    Mobile Device Testing

    Tablet Testing

    Console Gaming Systems

  • Industry Expertise

    Government Systems

    Healthcare Software

    Veterans Affairs

    Medical Platforms

    Gaming

    Telehealth

    Financial Services

    Educational Technology

    Accessibility Services

  • Leadership & Process

    QA Process Implementation

    Team Leadership

    Cross-functional Collaboration

    Mentoring

    Process Standardization

    Quality Assurance Strategy

    Production Support

    Agile Coaching

    Remote Team Management

  • AI LLM and Image Generation

    ChatGPT

    Claude

    Deepseek

    Adobe Firefly

    Google Gemini

    Pi

    Midjourney

    Dream (Android)

  • Office and Image Suites

    Adobe Creative Suite: Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Premiere Pro, Acrobat, After Effects, Dreamweaver

    Office 365: Teams, Word, Excel

    Google Workspace: Drive, Docs, Sheets

Education

Education

  • American Sign Language, Certificate, Austin Community College

    Jan, 2015 - Jan, 2017

    4.0

    DB1101 - ASL I

    DB1101 - ASL II

    DB1101 - ASL III

    DB1101 - ASL IV

    CS2011 - VGC

  • American Sign Language, Certificate, ASL School

    Jan, 2008 - Jan, 2012

    n/a
  • Video Editing and Life Drawing, CE, Vista College - Berkeley, CA

    Jan, 2001 - Jan, 2002

    3.143
  • Fine Art, Typography, Layout, 3D Max, CE, A.I. of Houston - Houston, TX

    Jan, 1995 - Jan, 1996

    n/a
  • Computer Science, Fine Art, CE, San Jacinto College - Pasadena, TX

    Jan, 1993 - Jan, 1995

    2.75