Senior Systems Engineer

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 & Solutions is seeking a Senior Systems Engineer to support the development of next-generation avionics computing technology for Collins Aerospace. This role will focus on a System-on-Chip (SoC) platform and requires strong experience working at the intersection of hardware and software. You will collaborate across systems, hardware, software, and AEH teams to capture requirements, support hardware/software integration, and verify system functionality in the lab. The ideal candidate will bring strong board- and device-level systems engineering experience, along with knowledge of ARP4754B, DO-254, and DO-178C. This position is primarily onsite in Cedar Rapids, IA, with limited remote consideration for rockstar candidates. Relocation assistance may be provided. U.S. Citizenship is required. Key Responsibilities: Capture, develop, and maintain system requirements, designs, test cases, and test procedures in accordance with program development plans and ARP4754B objectives. Support board- and device-level systems engineering for System-on-Chip (SoC) and embedded avionics applications. Work closely with systems, hardware, software, and Airborne Electronic Hardware (AEH) teams to support technical integration. Define and validate high-level hardware and software-allocated requirements. Integrate, validate, and verify embedded hardware and software functionality in a laboratory environment. Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues that cross hardware and software functional domains. Support development activities in accordance with DO-254 and DO-178C processes and certification objectives. Create and maintain technical documentation, requirements traceability, and development artifacts using tools such as Jama, Jira, and Git. Collaborate with technical stakeholders to develop use cases, concepts of operation, and system-level solutions. Support development of automation and scripting solutions for engineering, integration, or verification activities as needed. Participate in technical reviews and communicate findings, risks, and recommendations across engineering teams. Required Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or another STEM discipline with 8+ years of relevant experience, or an advanced degree with 5+ years of relevant experience. Strong Systems Engineering experience at the board, device, or embedded hardware/software level. Experience supporting hardware/software integration for complex embedded or avionics systems. Experience developing, capturing, validating, and maintaining system and high-level requirements, including software- and/or hardware-allocated requirements. Working knowledge of safety-critical aerospace development standards, including ARP4754A/B, DO-254, and/or DO-178C. Experience with system integration, verification, validation, and troubleshooting in a laboratory environment. Ability to collaborate effectively across systems, hardware, software, and AEH/FPGA engineering disciplines. Strong technical documentation and communication skills. U.S. Citizenship required. Preferred / Differentiating Skills: Previous experience working on Collins Aerospace programs, including familiarity with Collins engineering processes, requirements capture, and documentation practices. Experience with System-on-Chip (SoC), processor-based, or other complex embedded computing platforms. Strong understanding of DO-254, DO-178C, and ARP4754A/B development and certification processes. Experience with avionics equipment certification and associated lifecycle documentation. Hands-on experience working with and testing embedded hardware and software at the board or device level. Experience developing concepts of operation, use cases, and detailed technical documentation. Experience with Jama, Jira, and Git. Experience developing automated tests or engineering tools using scripting languages. Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot complex issues spanning hardware, software, and systems engineering domains. Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively with cross-functional technical teams and customers. The QDSS Advantage: At QDSS, our advantage is purpose-driven work, collaborative teams, and complex challenges that push boundaries and build lasting impact. You’ll grow your career while contributing to mission-critical programs that demand excellence and shape the future. What You’ll Find Here Work That Matters – Next-generation, safety- and mission-critical projects where your contributions have real-world impact. Growth That’s Supported – Competitive compensation, employer-matched 401(k), certification assistance, and clear opportunities for advancement. A Culture That Works – A flexible, collaborative, and people-first environment where teamwork, innovation, and balance are valued. Benefits Include Competitive pay, comprehensive medical/dental/life and disability coverage, 401(k) with employer match, professional development support, and a flexible, friendly workplace. Full compensation package is based on candidate experience and certifications Pay Ranges $125,000 — $150,000 USD 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.