Senior Embedded Software Engineer

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 highly skilled and detail-oriented Senior Embedded Software Engineer r esponsible for the design, development, and maintenance of C-based control software for critical power and automation systems. The candidate will design and implement electronic hardware and software for Nuclear Power Plants Instrumentation & Controls systems. The software team works closely with electronic hardware design and plant system operations.

The position requires strong technical problem-solving skills, advanced software expertise, and effective collaboration with other customer teams.

Periodic onsite presence may be required in Wilmington, NC. The role may require the candidate to be onsite up to one week per month (and occasionally two consecutive weeks) to perform software testing and collaborate with the local engineering team in the lab.

Responsibilities:

• Prepare design specifications, develop embedded software, perform module testing, and conduct integration testing of designs.
• Perform code reviews and verifications of Design Specifications and Reports.
• Engage customers to define scope, review results, and discuss technical risks.
• Perform integration testing of software solutions using Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) simulation and full end-to-end operational testing.
• Work with the technical leader to establish effective work plans, including time estimates, schedule estimates, requirements, and work processes.
• Apply engineering fundamentals and first-order engineering principles to establish and/or confirm expected performance.
• Provide clear and complete analysis documentation in accordance with customer engineering procedures.
• Manage time effectively to deliver quality work within expected project timelines.
• Communicate work status clearly and effectively to leadership.
• Provide leadership and mentoring to junior staff.
• Deliver high-quality engineering software as the primary output of the role.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical, Computer, or Software Engineering from an accredited college or university.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in embedded software development, including the C programming language and software development tools (GitLab, Jira, LDRA, Arm Development Studio, Visual Studio, GDB, etc.).
• Minimum of 10 years of experience with coding conventions, code review, unit testing, and integration testing of embedded software.
• Experience with software development in a safety-critical environment (DO-178, ISO 26262).

Preferred Qualifications:

• Intermediate knowledge of standard programming languages (e.g., Python)
• Ability to solve technical challenges by applying common design patterns and selecting appropriate patterns for problem-solving.
• Effective use of data structures and algorithms.
• Experience understanding and applying coding standards that deliver desired functionality using project-selected technologies.
• Knowledge of common development paradigms (Agile, Waterfall).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to articulate technical topics clearly.
• Proactively learns new tools, identifies opportunities for improvement, and promotes their adoption.
• Experience adopting and/or integrating emerging technologies (e.g., generative AI, automation platforms, digital assistants) into day-to-day operations for continuous improvement.
• 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.