Systems Engineer - Airborne PNT

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 motivated Systems Engineer to support the development of next‑generation airborne and maritime Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) solutions. This hybrid role blends in‑person collaboration with remote technical work, supporting flexible productivity while maintaining access to secure labs, specialized hardware, and cross‑functional engineering teams.

This is an excellent opportunity for an early‑career engineer to grow into a high‑impact technical role. Under the guidance of senior systems leadership, you will contribute to requirements development, system integration activities, verification and validation efforts, and the advancement of airborne navigation systems including GPS receiver products, precision approach technologies, and anti‑jam solutions.

Hybrid Role
Location: Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Job Category: Engineering & Technology

Key Responsibilities

• Requirements Support: Assist in analyzing system‑level requirements and decomposing them into clear hardware, software, and interface specifications.
  • Systems Integration: Support integration of real‑time embedded PNT systems in lab environments, ensuring seamless hardware/software interoperability.
  • Verification & Testing: Help develop and execute system‑level test plans and procedures, and document results to ensure products meet operational and customer performance requirements.
  • Digital Engineering: Use tools such as DOORS and explore MBSE approaches (SysML, Cameo, MagicDraw) to document behavior, structure, and system traceability.
  • Technical Documentation: Contribute to system specifications, interface control documents, engineering reports, and requirements traceability artifacts.
  • Cross‑Functional Collaboration: Work closely with software, RF, hardware, algorithm, and test engineering teams to support system development and problem resolution.

Required Education, Experience & Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in a STEM field (Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, Computer Science, or related discipline).
  • Foundational understanding of systems engineering principles such as the V‑model, requirements traceability, and system integration.
  • Ability to communicate clearly with peers, technical leaders, and project stakeholders.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government Secret clearance.

Preferred Education, Experience & Skills

• Familiarity with Model‑Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) methods or tools such as Cameo, MagicDraw, or SysML.
  • Interest in or foundational knowledge of GPS, RF systems, or PNT technologies.
  • Basic exposure to airborne or safety‑critical development standards (DO‑178C, DO‑254, MIL‑STD‑882).
  • Experience with MATLAB, Python, simulation tools, or requirements management software such as DOORS.
  • Active Secret clearance.
  • Ability to use generative AI tools to automate or accelerate engineering tasks such as traceability, analysis, or documentation.

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

$80,000—$140,000 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.