Systems Engineer – Principal

Quest Defense Systems & Solutions • Cedar Rapids, IA

17d • Onsite

About The Position

Quest Defense Systems & Solutions is seeking a Principal Systems Engineer to lead architecture, requirements development, integration, testing, qualification, and project execution across next-generation GPS and Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) product lines. The role combines technical leadership with program execution oversight, including responsibility for cost, schedule, and engineering rigor throughout the development lifecycle. The engineer will influence product direction, collaborate across RF, hardware, software, and algorithm teams, and support bids and planning for future programs. This position requires full-time onsite work at the Cedar Rapids facility to support secure engineering spaces, specialized hardware, and collaborative program execution.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a STEM discipline such as engineering, computer science, physics, or mathematics.
• At least 6 years of relevant engineering experience.
• Strong understanding of systems engineering processes, development lifecycles, and disciplined product development methodologies.
• Experience with project management, earned value, milestone planning, or technical leadership responsibilities.
• U.S. citizenship.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government Secret clearance.

Nice To Haves

• Active DoD Secret clearance or higher.
• Experience with systems engineering tools such as DOORS, JAMA, JIRA, or comparable platforms.
• Exposure to Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) concepts or tools such as Cameo, MagicDraw, or SysML.
• Working knowledge of C, C++, Python, or scripting tools used for analysis and automation.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, including technical documentation and cross-discipline communication.
• Ability to work effectively in diverse, high-performance engineering teams.
• Motivation to solve complex problems, drive continuous improvement, and contribute to innovative navigation solutions.

Responsibilities

• Lead system-level requirements development, architecture definition, interface specification, and traceability across complex embedded GPS/PNT systems.
• Direct integration activities, develop system-level test strategies, oversee verification and validation, and ensure compliance with program and customer requirements.
• Manage cost, schedule, technical milestones, earned value, and risk mitigation for assigned programs.
• Drive system design reviews, support trade studies, and evaluate technical performance against mission needs.
• Partner with RF, hardware, firmware, software, and test engineering teams to resolve technical issues and maintain cohesive development.
• Provide technical guidance to customers, prepare engineering documentation, and support field events or system deployment activities.
• Contribute technical content, cost estimates, and planning for new business proposals and future product enhancements.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation.
• Employer-matched 401(k).
• Certification assistance.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, life, and disability coverage.
• Professional development support.
• Opportunities for advancement.
• Flexible, collaborative, and people-first workplace.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Principal