Apparent similarity in the appearance of two entities does not imply that they are exactly the same in all respects. The same logic applies to the issue of SDET vs. Automation Engineer as well. Both IT professionals happen to be associated with the QA Automation Course phase of the SDLC. Moreover, they do have certain common responsibilities, leading many to use the two terms interchangeably. However, technically, this is not correct. Consequently, the difference between SDET and Automation Engineer is what shall be accounted for in this blog.

1. Syntax Technologies
SDET vs. Automation Engineer: Evaluating the Two Positions

2. Apparent similarity in the appearance of two entities does not imply that they are exactly the same in all respects. The same
logic applies to the issue of SDET vs. Automation Engineer as well. Both IT professionals happen to be associated with the QA
Automation Course phase of the SDLC. Moreover, they do have certain common responsibilities, leading many to use the
two terms interchangeably. However, technically, this is not correct. Consequently, the difference between SDET and
Automation Engineer is what shall be accounted for in this blog.

3. In this blog, we shall take up the issue of Automation Engineer
vs. SDET. The comparative framework will be built on the basis
of similarity as well as difference between SDET and
Automation Engineer.
What is SDET?
Who is an Automation Engineer?
SDET vs. Automation Engineer: Similarities
Automation Engineer vs. SDET: Dissimilarities
Conclusion

4. What is SDET?
SDET stands for Software Development/Design Engineer in Test. The position refers to an IT professional who
happens to remain engaged, both in the development as well as testing of the software. The role of a SDET can
be understood as an intermediate one, between a purely tester role and a purely developer role. They not only
participate in developing and writing test scripts, but SDET testing also helps in fixing bugs as part of the
process.

5. Given the association of SDETs with the phase of testing as well as given their automation capabilities; it is quite
commonplace to consider them as substitutes for Automation Engineers. However, this is not entirely true and it is
definitely important to evaluate the issue of SDET vs. Test Automation Engineer.
Who is an Automation Engineer?
An Automation Engineer is essentially someone who is responsible for automating solutions for software processes.
Automation Engineers are required to work in close liaison with other teams for identifying and eliminating issues by
acquiring requirements and executing process automation. In the position of an Automation Engineer, you will be
required to:
 Look for suitable opportunities for automation within software processes
 Build and run QA Automation Tests as well as execute tests for systems, applications, hardware, software and
network

6.  Detect Quality Issues and Bugs in business processes
 Implementation of the Project Structure
 Acquire requirements from end-users and clients for developing
the best automation solution
 Collation of the Process

7. SDET vs. Automation Engineer: Similarities
The issue of Automation Engineer vs. SDET might not necessarily be one of divergence. Accordingly, we shall look at some of
the common professional responsibilities which both SDETs and Automation Engineers are expected to undertake.
 Writing Automation Test Scripts for Automating Test Cases
 Managing Test Servers
 Using Test Automation Tools
In fact, most of the Companies do not really differentiate between the two positions of that of an SDET and an Automation
Engineer.
Automation Engineer vs. SDET: Dissimilarities
In this section, we shall look at the difference between SDET and Automation Engineer, in a synoptic tabular format.

8. SDET Automation Engineer
They happen to be involved in the
development as well as the testing phase of
the SDLC.
They happen to be essentially involved, only
in the testing phase of the SDLC.
They have advanced knowledge of
Programming Languages
They have basic knowledge of Programming
Languages
They help to create Automation
Frameworks
They use Frameworks created by SDETs
Types of testing which entail technical
knowledge of coding; are generally
entrusted in the hands of SDETs. This
includes API Testing
Types of testing which generally do not entail
coding; can be performed by Automation
Engineers. This includes UI Testing

9. SDETs can write unit tests, write
and review codes as well s
understand the internal
structure of an application
Automation Engineers are not
necessarily acquainted with the
way in which the software is
built
SDETs can be regarded as all-
rounders who are acquainted
with the nitty-gritty of the whole
system
As compared to SDETs,
Automation Engineers have
limited knowledge and are more
closely associated with the
testing domain alone

10. Conclusion
The difference between SDET and Automation Engineer is more on technical grounds; while in reality, there is
considerable overlap in the responsibilities of the two positions, to the extent that many companies do not even
consider the two as distinctive job designations. Nonetheless, it is important to be aware of even the minute technical
aspects of the two and consequently, the topic of Automation Engineer vs. SDET is a real one.
SDETs are in high demand in business organizations, cutting across industries. Moreover, the increasing significance of
QA Testing Course as opposed to Manual Testing, is only indicative of further giving the position of SDETs, a major push.
We, at Syntax Technologies, offer you an unparallel opportunity for developing expertise as a seasoned SDET. Check out
our SDET Training course.