Lead Software Engineer

We are hiring Lead Software Engineer – Test Systems & Hardware Integration (ATE).  Stay hands-on while leading—drive software and hardware integration for high-impact test systems used in real production environments. We’re hire and grow 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.

Join Quest Defense Systems & Solutions as our Lead Software Engineer to drive the development and integration of software for automated test systems (ATE) supporting aerospace and defense programs.

In this role, you’ll combine hands-on development with technical leadership—owning system-level solutions, guiding engineers, and shaping how test systems are designed, built, and deployed. You’ll play a key role in delivering scalable, reliable test architectures in complex production environments.

Location: Tucson or Scottsdale, AZ (onsite)
Relocation: Available
Clearance: U.S. Citizenship required (Secret Clearance preferred)

Why This Role

• Opportunity to lead while staying hands-on

• Influence technical direction and system architecture

• High visibility across engineering and program leadership

• Impact delivery of complex, mission-critical systems

What You’ll Do

• Lead development of test software systems and architectures (C#, C++)

• Provide technical direction and mentorship to software engineers

• Own software + hardware integration strategy across test platforms

• Collaborate with program leadership and cross-functional engineering teams

• Drive requirements definition, system design, and technical decision-making

• Oversee troubleshooting of complex system-level issues

• Contribute to program execution (cost, schedule, technical performance)

Requirements

• 7–10+ years of experience in software engineering or test systems development

• Strong background in hardware/software integration or ATE systems

• Proven experience in technical leadership, mentoring, or leading projects

• Experience with C#, C++, and modern development environments

• Strong communication skills with ability to interface with engineering and program leadership

• Bachelor’s degree in STEM (or equivalent experience)

• U.S. Citizenship (clearance eligible)

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience architecting test systems or ATE platforms

• Experience with instrument drivers, automation frameworks, or NI ecosystems

• Knowledge of system-level design, UML, or modeling tools

• Experience in aerospace, defense, or high-reliability environments

• Familiarity with CI/CD, DevOps, or configuration management

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

$69—$74 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.