Systems Engineer – Principal

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.

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

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.