Software Engineer at Quest Defense Systems & Solutions, Inc.
Quest Defense Systems & Solutions, Inc. · Cincinnati, United States Of America · Remote
- Professional
We don’t just build technology—we engineer the future. From next-gen aerospace to cutting-edge defense systems, we tackle the toughest, mission-critical challenges that keep people safe and push the limits of innovation. This is where problem-solvers, innovators, and big thinkers thrive.
Quest Defense Systems and Solutions is seeking a highly skilled Software Engineer to join our team where we are building the foundational software components that enable next-generation avionics systems. The Core Services & Libraries (CS&L) team is responsible for developing shared libraries, I/O frameworks, and partitioned services that power multiple avionics applications. This role is ideal for a systems-minded engineer with deep low-level experience who can design robust, certifiable software architectures.
Due to the nature of this role- all candidate MUST be a U.S. citizen or US Person.
Key Responsibilities:
- Abstract and consolidate core functions into reusable libraries and frameworks
- Extract existing functionality from application code and refactor for shared use
- Design and implement an I/O framework supporting multiple protocols and data interfaces
- Define and maintain data dictionaries and I/O level specifications
- Collaborate with system architects to ensure ARINC-653 partitioning integrity
- Support certification activities through HLR/LLR documentation and DAL compliance
- Contribute to long-term strategy for scalable, maintainable software infrastructure
Required Skills & Qualifications:
- 4- 8 years of experience in C++ and object-oriented design for embedded systems
- Working knowledge of I/O architecture, protocol handling, and data management
- Background in developing certifiable software (DO-178 DAL A preferred)
- Proficiency in HLR/LLR generation, review, and traceability
- Quick learner with strong initiative and drive
Preferred Qualifications:
- Strong experience with ARINC-653 partitioning and low-level application design
- Hands-on experience with VxWorks RTOS
- Familiarity with toolchains and CI/CD environments supporting configuration management and verification (Atlassian Suite, Jama, Coverity, Rapita, etc)
- Designed and implemented non-volatile data storage systems (e.g., EEPROM, flash, or NVRAM) for configuration or state retention
- Experience with persistent and transient log storage, including rollover and data retention policies
- Familiarity with log transport mechanisms (e.g., shared memory, I/O channels, or network-based telemetry)
- Experience developing or integrating ARINC 661 Cockpit Display Systems (CDS) and User Applications (UA)
- Familiarity with avionics data buses and communication protocols (e.g., ARINC-429, MIL-STD-1553, AFDX, CAN, SPI, UART, etc)
- Strategic systems thinker able to plan scalable, reusable frameworks
- Previous FMS Experience is a bonus but not required.
Why QDSS Solutions:
We’re a family-like-company. We are collaborative. We believe in embracing change. We believe in doing consistent good work. QDSS houses smart, curious and passionate about “making a difference” people. Our company culture sets us apart from others as well as:
- 401k with Employer-Match Contributions
- Medical, Dental, and Life coverage
- Disability Benefits
- Generous compensation structure
- Significant opportunities for advancement
- Next Generation / Cutting Edge Technology Projects
- Certification Assistance Available (Approval Required)
- Flexible, Friendly and Fun work environment
About Us
At QDSS, we are more than an engineering company—we are a force for innovation and positive change. With over 25 years of proven expertise in solving mission-critical challenges, we empower our team to push boundaries, combining deep industry knowledge, cutting-edge technology, and a collaborative "think tank" approach.
Our vision is to be the trusted partner of choice for our defense and aerospace clients, delivering secure, sustainable, and world-class solutions that build a brighter future.
Full compensation package is based on candidate experience and certifications
At Quest Defense Systems and Solutions, we don’t just build technology — we engineer the future. From next-generation aerospace solutions to cutting-edge defense systems, we tackle the toughest, mission-critical challenges that keep people safe and push the boundaries of innovation. This is where problem-solvers, innovators, and visionary thinkers come together to shape the future. With over 25 years of aerospace and defense engineering expertise, our commitment to delivering high-quality, transformative solutions sets us apart — not just as an industry leader, but as a driving force for impactful change. Together, we’re not just leading the industry — we’re revolutionizing it.
Quest Defense provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
