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Senior Embedded Software Engineer

Quest Defense
Cedar Rapids, United Statesfull_timeVerifiedPosted 12 Aug 2026
💰 $165,000/yr($140,000/yr$165,000/yr)

About the role

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

What we do matters! Be a part of the team that is powering engineering solutions that drive technology. 

Quest Defense Systems & Solutions is seeking a Senior 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

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

Clearance: 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 Active Secret Clearance
  • Experience with software development and integration on complex multi-threaded embedded C and C++ product software code bases   
  • 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
$140,000$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 em

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Company

Quest Defense

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