Systems Engineer - Principal

questdefensesystemssolutionsinc; Cedar Rapids (IA); In loco; USD 100.000 - 160.000; Tempo pieno

Vantaggi offerti da questo lavoro

Competitive pay

401(k) with employer match

Certification assistance

Descrizione del lavoro

Quest Defense Systems & Solutions seeks a Principal Systems Engineer to drive architecture, requirements development, test and integration, qualification, and project leadership across our GPS and PNT product lines. This role blends deep technical responsibility with program execution oversight, supporting cost, schedule, and engineering rigor throughout the development lifecycle.

Onsite work at the Cedar Rapids facility is required to support secure engineering spaces and collaborative program

Competenze

• Bachelor's degree in a STEM discipline and minimum 6 years of engineering experience.
• Strong understanding of systems engineering processes and lifecycle development.
• Experience with project management, earned value, milestone planning, or technical leadership.
• U.S. Citizenship required.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government Secret clearance.

Mansioni

• Lead system-level requirements development and architecture definition.
• Direct integration activities and develop system-level test strategies.
• Oversee verification, validation, and compliance with requirements.
• Manage cost, schedule, milestones, earned value, and risk mitigation for programs.
• Collaborate with RF, hardware, software, and algorithm teams to resolve issues.

Conoscenze

Systems engineering

Lifecycle processes

Project management

Clearance eligibility

Formazione

Bachelor's degree in STEM

Strumenti

DOORS

JAMA

JIRA

MBSE tools

Descrizione del lavoro

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 Principal Systems Engineer to drive architecture, requirements development, test and integration, qualification, and project leadership across our next‑generation GPS and Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) product lines. This role combines deep technical responsibility with program execution oversight, supporting cost, schedule, and engineering rigor throughout the development lifecycle.

As a principal member of the Systems Engineering organization, you will influence product direction, collaborate across RF, hardware, software, and algorithm teams, and contribute to bidding and planning activities for future programs. This position requires full‑time onsite work at our Cedar Rapids facility to support secure engineering spaces, specialized hardware, and collaborative program execution.

Join Quest as we innovate precision navigation systems that support those who protect our nation.

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 think

Key Responsibilities

• Systems Engineering Leadership: Lead system‑level requirements development, architecture definition, interface specification, and traceability across complex embedded GPS/PNT systems.
• Integration & Qualification: Direct integration activities, develop system‑level test strategies, oversee verification and validation efforts, and ensure compliance with program and customer requirements.
• Project Management: Manage cost, schedule, technical milestones, earned value, and risk mitigation activities for assigned programs.
• Technical Reviews: Drive system design reviews, support trade studies, and evaluate technical performance against mission needs.
• Cross‑Functional Collaboration: Partner with RF, hardware, firmware, software, and test engineering teams to resolve technical issues and maintain cohesive development.
• Customer Support: Provide technical guidance to customers, prepare engineering documentation, and support field events or system deployment activities.
• Proposal & Bid Support: Contribute to technical content, cost estimates, and planning for new business proposals and future product enhancements.

Required Education, Experience & Skills

• Bachelor's degree in a STEM discipline (Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, etc.) and minimum 6 years of relevant engineering experience.
• Strong understanding of systems engineering processes, development lifecycles, and disciplined product development methodologies.
• Experience with project management, earned value, milestone planning, or technical leadership responsibilities.
• U.S. Citizenship required.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government Secret clearance.

Preferred Education, Experience & Skills

• Active DoD Secret clearance or higher.
• Experience with systems engineering tools such as DOORS, JAMA, JIRA, or comparable platforms.
• Exposure to Model‑Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) concepts or tools (Cameo, MagicDraw, SysML).
• Working knowledge of software languages (C, C++, Python) or scripting tools used for analysis and automation.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, including technical documentation and cross‑discipline communication.
• Ability to work effectively in diverse, high‑performance engineering teams.
• Motivation to solve complex problems, drive continuous improvement, and contribute to innovative navigation solutions.

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

• $100,000 - $160,000 USD