Embedded Software Engineer

Immediately Hiring with a $5,000 sign on bonus!

What we do matters! Join the team powering engineering solutions that drive technology.

Quest Defense Systems & Solutions is seeking an Embedded Software Engineer to support the design and development of mission-critical communications products for defense and aerospace applications. This is a hands-on role for someone who enjoys building reliable embedded software, working in C++, and solving technical problems across complex multi-threaded systems.

Location: Onsite in Cedar Rapids, IA. Relocation assistance will be provided.

Due to the nature of this work, all applicants must be U.S. Citizens.

Clearance: Ability to obtain an Active Clearance

In this position, you’ll work closely with software architects, technical leads, and cross-functional engineering teams to develop, test, and integrate embedded software solutions. The work includes object-oriented C++ development, unit testing, Python scripting, Linux-based development, networking protocols, and device driver support.

Key Responsibilities

Support the design and development of embedded software solutions for communications products

Develop and maintain unit tests to ensure the reliability and robustness of new and legacy systems

Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to ensure seamless integration with embedded systems and networking components

Work closely with system architects and technical leads to maintain and improve the overall software architecture

Support the full software development lifecycle, including design, development, testing, and deployment in a secure environment

Required Qualifications

U.S. Citizenship with ability to obtain an Active Secret Clearance

Experience with software development and integration on complex multi-threaded embedded C and C++ product software code bases

2-5+ years of experience with Object-Oriented Programming (preferably in C++)

Proficiency in writing unit tests and ensuring code reliability

Basic knowledge of networking protocols and architecture

Proficiency in scripting languages such as Python

Experience developing or supporting device drivers

Willingness to work onsite at Cedar Rapids (IA)

Preferred Skills and Experience

TCP/IP network applications development experience

UML experience

CORBA experience

Linux experience

Familiarity with embedded systems development for Software Defined Radios

Prior experience working on Department of Defense (DoD) projects

Experience working with MIL-STD-1553 and MIL-STD-188

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 — $165,000 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.