Lead Embedded Software Engineer

QuEST Defense
Phoenix, AZ, United States
2 months ago

Role details

Contract type
Permanent contract
Employment type
Full-time (> 32 hours)
Experience level
Expert
Experience required
8 years minimum
Compensation
$140,000.0 - $165,000.0
Working hours
Regular working hours
Job source

Tech stack

Agile Methodology Configuration Management Continuous Integration Data Dictionary Embedded C Embedded Software Scrum Methodology Software Architecture Systems Development Life Cycle Real-Time Operating Systems Requirements Traceability Software Engineering
+6 more
Data Streaming Toolchain VxWorks Jama (Software) Atlassian Tools DO-178B

Job description

Engineers are the reason we exist-they’re the core of who we are. We don’t just build technology; we engineer the future. From next-gen aerospace to cutting-edge defense systems, our teams power the solutions that drive innovation, tackle mission-critical challenges, and keep people safe. This is where problem-solvers and big thinkers thrive., * Lead an Agile software development team within the Core Services & Libraries organization

  • Break down program-level objectives into executable user stories, tasks, and milestones
  • Assign and track work across team members, ensuring adherence to scope, schedule, and quality standards
  • Provide regular progress metrics and reporting to program management and customer representatives
  • Mentor team members on software design, partitioning, certification, and avionics standards
  • Contribute technically to the architecture, design, and implementation of core software components
  • Collaborate with other leads to define interfaces, data flows, and I/O architecture across systems
  • Ensure development aligns with certification objectives (DO-178C DAL A/B) and coding standards
  • Participate in sprint planning, reviews, and retrospectives to continuously improve team performance

Requirements

Do you have experience in Verification (System development task)?, * 8+ years of experience developing or testing embedded software

  • Strong experience in embedded C++ software development within RTOS environments (VxWorks preferred)
  • Demonstrated expertise with ARINC-653 partitioning, I/O frameworks, and low-level software design
  • Hands-on experience leading Agile or Scrum-based engineering teams
  • Proficiency in work decomposition, backlog management, and metrics-based reporting (e.g., velocity, burndown, earned value)
  • Experience with requirements traceability and verification (HLR/LLR) under DO-178C
  • Ability to coordinate across multiple engineering and certification disciplines, * Experience with ARINC 661 Cockpit Display Systems (CDS/UA integration)
  • Familiarity with I/O protocols, data dictionaries, and software architecture for reusable libraries
  • Background in DAL A certification or equivalent safety-critical domains
  • Familiarity with toolchains and CI/CD environments supporting configuration management and verification (Atlassian Suite, Jama, Coverity, Rapita, etc), A hands-on technical leader who thrives on enabling the team to deliver complex, certifiable software in a dynamic environment. An engineer who can balance architectural vision with day-to-day execution, ensuring the team stays aligned, productive, and responsive. Someone who overcommunicates, thinks in systems, plans with precision, and leads by example.

Benefits & conditions

Pulled from the full job description

  • Health insurance
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Disability insurance
  • Opportunities for advancement, 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.

About the company

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.

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