Embedded Programmer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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.

Quest Defense Systems & Solutions is seeking a Lead Software Engineer to join the Core Services & Libraries (CS&L) team in building the foundational software components that enable next-generation avionics systems. 

As Team Lead, you will guide a multidisciplinary team of software engineers who develop reusable libraries, I/O frameworks, and partitioned services in a safety-critical, certifiable environment. The lead(s) will operate within an Agile framework, balancing hands-on technical contribution with leadership, task planning, and delivery accountability.

Due to the nature of this role, all candidates must be a US Citizen OR US Person.

Preference is onsite in Cedar Rapids, IA. Will consider remote candidates meeting all requirements.

Key Responsibilities:

• 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 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

Required Qualifications:

• 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

Desired Qualifications:

• 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)

Ideal Candidate:

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.

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.