BEN POWELL

Automation//Software Engineer

Building robust software and efficiently breaking things so you don't have to.

ben@deploy-system:~
TYPESCRIPT :: C# :: PYTHON :: CI/CD :: DOCKER :: JENKINS :: FUSION 360 :: 3DS MAX :: BLENDER :: JIRA :: UNREAL ENGINE :: AZURE DEVOPS :: JAVASCRIPT :: C++ :: TYPESCRIPT :: C# :: PYTHON :: CI/CD :: DOCKER :: JENKINS :: FUSION 360 :: 3DS MAX :: BLENDER :: JIRA :: UNREAL ENGINE :: AZURE DEVOPS :: JAVASCRIPT :: C++ ::

# Background

Bio

With a background in CAD Design and Game Development, I transitioned into software engineering, bringing a builder’s mindset to creating reliable, scalable solutions. I focus on developing intuitive, performant, and maintainable software that delivers lasting value to users.

Current Config

  • Role Automation/Software Engineer
  • Focus Automation, Tooling, Efficiency
  • Location Liverpool, UK
  • Degree Liverpool John Moores University

# Experience

2026 - Present

Automation/Software Engineer

Developing software and automation tools that streamline workflows and improve efficiency.

  • Developed a blockbench -> in-game (Minecraft) animation pipeline for cutscenes, including camera tooling, and entity creation
  • Lipsync Automation used as the backbone of the Villager News Add-On
  • Creation of Blockbench plugins across art, animation, and modelling
Minecraft BE TypeScript Python Deno
June 2025 – Dec 2025

Automation Engineer

Designing and implementing scalable automation frameworks for web and mobile platforms.

  • Developed automated E2E suites using Playwright (TypeScript/Python).
  • Designed modular test architectures supporting Auth0 & CI/CD.
  • Performed API validation using Postman for backend reliability.
  • Conducted cross-browser testing via BrowserStack.
  • Integrated automation with Jenkins, GitHub Actions, and GitLab.
Playwright TypeScript Python CI/CD
2023 - June 2025

SDET II

Optimized quality for interactive slot games across online and physical platforms, ensuring high-performance releases within Agile frameworks.

  • Spearheaded automated testing with Playwright, significantly increasing efficiency and test coverage.
  • Managed product quality through meticulous tracking and rigorous regression analysis in JIRA.
  • Executed full-spectrum testing (API, web, mobile) including stress and exploratory methodologies.
  • Led 4-week Agile test cycles for new game launches, ensuring stability and performance.
  • Enhanced regulatory compliance and support by refining documentation and external validation.
C# TypeScript Playwright Jira

# Projects

PASS
Villager News Add-on

Automation of villager character lipsync animations, used throughout the add-on.

100% Automated
PASS
A&S Flat Textures

Blockbench -> in-game animation pipeline for use in cinematic trailers.

100% In-game
PASS
Deployment Tool

Internal C# tool that automated the manual deployment process for game releases.

50% Time Saved
100% Reliability
RUNNING
Playwright Framework

Robust test automation suite for cross-browser testing of an internal CMS tool.

100% Coverage
24 Devices Supported
PASS
VR Protein Viewer

Educational VR walkthrough of a Glucokinase protein for Aberdeen University students.

VR Platform
UE4 Engine
LEGACY
Relic Hunters

Custom C++ game engine and game developed in a team of 5 at LJMU.

C++ Code
5 Members
EXPERIMENTAL
VR Climbing System

Demonstration of VR element showcasing how the user can climb or scale buildings.

VR Tech
PHYSICS Based
EXPERIMENTAL
VR Weapon Mechanics

Demonstration of custom VR weapon functionality, replicating real weapon mechanics.

VR Platform
UE4 Engine
PASS
Charity Wheel Cap

Fusion 360 project for Sim Haven christmas fundraiser 'Save the Children'.

CAD Type
PRINTED Output
EXPERIMENTAL
VR Sword Interaction

UE4 test featuring a sword model with accurate collision and interaction logic.

UE4 Engine
PHYSICS Logic
PASS
PB: DDGH Gift Piece

Blender modeling project created as a gift, based on game production assets.

CAD Type
GIFT Context