Avionics Embedded Engineer - Defense Career Growth in Columbus
Career & Market Insight
This role at Quest Defense Systems and Solutions sits squarely in the defense avionics / embedded software niche — a highly specialized and in-demand segment. Flight Management System (FMS) software for military platforms requires expertise in safety-critical software development, and the DO-178 certification preference signals serious rigor.
Compensation: The $110,000–$145,000 range is competitive for a mid-to-senior embedded software engineer in the defense sector, roughly on par with industry benchmarks. At top-tier defense contractors (Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, L3Harris), comparable roles range $115,000–$160,000, so QDSS is competitive but not at the ceiling. The 401(k) match and comprehensive benefits add meaningful total compensation value.
Skills you'll develop:
- Safety-critical embedded software (C/C++, Ada) — extremely marketable in aerospace and defense
- DO-178 avionics certification processes — a rare and highly sought specialization
- DOORS requirements management — common across large defense programs
- DoD security clearance eligibility — a career asset that opens many high-paying doors
Green flags: Over 25 years in business signals stability; certification assistance and clear advancement paths show investment in employee growth; mission-critical work provides strong career narrative.
Watch for: The <10% travel requirement and the nature of DoD work can mean unpredictable project demands. The clearance preference, while not mandatory on day one, may become a de facto expectation over time. Ensure role scope and project variety align with your long-term engineering ambitions.
We're looking for engineers who believe innovation can turn the impossible into reality and are driven to design, develop, and test solutions that make a real impact. Join a diverse team tackling cutting-edge challenges, where what you build today helps shape a brighter future for tomorrow.
Quest Defense Systems and Solutions is actively hiring an Embedded Software Engineer to develop, integrate, and test Flight Management System (FMS) software for military helicopters and aircraft. This role combines C/C++, Ada, Python, and software lifecycle development to deliver reliable avionics software in collaboration with systems and software engineering teams.
Location: Remote
Citizenship: Due to the nature of the work, US Citizenship is required.
Clearance: Preference to have the ability to obtain a DoD Security Clearance if needed.
In this Role, you will:
- Work within a team of Systems and Software engineers to design, develop, and test software features for flight management systems integrated into military helicopters and planes.
- Master your knowledge of Software Engineering and Flight Management Systems.
- Integrate soft skills (leadership, communication, coordination, proactiveness) into a dynamic environment that provides quality and timely products to internal and external customers.
- Travel (domestic and international, <10%) as needed.
Qualifications You Must Have:
- Typically requires a degree in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) and minimum 5 years of prior relevant experience, or an Advanced Degree in a related field and minimum 3 years of experience.
- 4+ years of experience with C, C++, DOORS, Ada, and/or Python.
- 4+ years of experience in a Software role.
Qualifications We Prefer:
- Industry experience in Software Lifecycle Development (Design, Requirements, Integration, Test).
- Pilot/Avionics Experience (e.g., Private Pilot, Aircraft Maintenance, DO-178 Certification).
- Ability to obtain a DoD Security Clearance if needed after day 1.
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 Range: $110,000 — $145,000 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. 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.
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. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Frequently Asked Questions
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