Software and Hardware Senior Engineering Specialist

About the role

We’re seeking engineers who thrive on solving hard problems and turning bold ideas into real-world solutions. If you’re driven to design, develop, and test technology that truly makes an impact, you’ll feel at home here.

Quest Defense Systems & Solutions is seeking a Software and Hardware Senior Engineering Specialist to support aerospace programs through senior-level technical expertise in airborne software and electronic hardware engineering.

The successful candidate will support the development lifecycle of safety-critical aircraft systems, including requirements analysis, design review, implementation oversight, integration, verification, troubleshooting, and certification support. The role requires strong technical judgment, an understanding of the relationship between software and hardware, and the ability to resolve complex engineering challenges within a multidisciplinary aircraft development environment.

The specialist will collaborate with software, hardware, systems engineering, avionics, flight controls, safety, verification, and certification teams to ensure engineering deliverables meet applicable functional, performance, quality, and development assurance requirements.

Responsibilities

Participate in preliminary and critical system design reviews

Review and assess supplier’s airborne software and electronic hardware certification plans

Review and assess supplier’s airborne software and electronic (FPGA, ASIC, PLD) designs

Perform technical and process audits at supplier’s facilities

Perform safety of flight reviews

Assess software and hardware test results and analyses and determine final compliance status

Lead the resolution of safety, compliance or technical deficiencies with the suppliers and Bombardier stakeholders

Prepare and/or review design compliance reports

Contribute to evolution of the SWEL (Software and Electronics) domain roadmap

Mentor less experienced professionals

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Electronics, Software, Aerospace Engineering or equivalent and have a minimum of 15 years of experience in a technical engineering field, including a minimum of 10 years in aeronautics

Minimum of 5 years of FPGA or ASIC development and/or embedded software development for aerospace applications

You have thorough working knowledge of airborne software and electronic hardware guidance and Means of Compliances

RTCA DO-178B/C, DO-248B/C, DO-254, DO-330

EASA CM-SWCEH-002 (associated with DO-178B) and CM-SWCEH-001

FAA AC 20-115D and AC 20-152A

FAA Order 8110.49A and 8110.105A

Experience in requirements capture environments (DOORS, JAMA)

Working knowledge of multiple programming languages (C, C++, Ada95, Assembly, Python) and multiple hardware description languages

Working knowledge of embedded computer architectures

Working knowledge of operating systems and real-time executives

Preferred Qualifications

General knowledge in electronics and software programming

Experience with civil aircraft and airworthiness authorities 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 $170,000—$190,000 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.