Embedded Software Engineer - Platform & Hardware Integration

At Quest Defense Systems & Solutions, our engineers support complex, mission-critical programs where software performance, reliability, and precision matter.

We are seeking an experienced Embedded Software Engineer with deep expertise in processor‑level development, board support, and hardware/software integration.

This role focuses on building foundational embedded platforms, enabling reliable system bring-up, and ensuring robust communication with complex hardware components. You will work closely with hardware, FPGA/ASIC, and systems teams to deliver deterministic, real‑time embedded solutions for safety‑critical applications.

This position is preferred to be based in Endicott, NY, working in a hybrid/onsite capacity. Remote candidates will be considered provided they are available for an initial onboarding period in Endicott and can travel to the site on a quarterly basis thereafter. U.S. citizenship is required.

Key Responsibilities:   

• Develop, implement, and maintain very low‑level embedded software, including processor‑level C, C++, and assembly code.
• Lead and execute SoC hardware initialization, board bring-up, and platform-level hardware/software integration.
• Experience with FPGA/ASIC components, ensuring timing‑critical and deterministic communication.
• Integrate and support avionics and real‑time communication protocols such as TSN, PCIe, and AFDX.
• Contribute to the development of highly reliable embedded systems for avionics, safety‑critical, or deterministic real‑time environments.
• Utilize ARM DS IDE, DSTREAM, and Python-based tooling for debugging, automation, and productivity optimization.
• Collaborate cross‑functionally with hardware, systems, and verification teams to ensure seamless integration and compliance with platform requirements.
• Participate in design reviews, documentation development, and continuous improvement of embedded software processes.

Required Qualifications: 

• U.S. citizenship is required.
• Bachelor’s degree in software engineering or a related engineering discipline
• 4+ years of relevant Software Engineering experience in avionics or electronic controls embedded development in a safety or mission critical environment (ie: aerospace, military).
• Demonstrated expertise in low‑level embedded software development using C, C++, and assembly.
• Strong background in SoC initialization, hardware, board bring‑up, and system-level hardware/software integration.
• Hands-on experience interfacing with FPGA/ASIC logic and working with timing‑critical embedded communication.
• Practical knowledge of avionics and deterministic communication protocols, including TSN, PCIe, and AFDX.
• Proven experience developing software for avionics, safety‑critical, or other deterministic real‑time systems.
• Proficiency with ARM DS IDE, DSTREAM hardware debug tools, and Python for automation and tooling.

Preferred Qualifications: 

• Experience developing board support packages, boot code, device drivers, or other platform-level embedded software.
• Hands-on experience with new board bring-up, processor initialization, hardware debug, and early-stage system integration.
• Experience supporting DO-178C, DO-254, or other safety-critical development and verification processes.
• Familiarity with timing analysis, deterministic execution, latency-sensitive communication, or real-time performance optimization.
• Experience using hardware debug tools, trace tools, oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, or similar lab-based debugging equipment.
• Experience developing Python scripts or automation tools to support debugging, testing, integration, or workflow improvement.
• Prior experience in aerospace, defense, avionics, automotive, industrial controls, or other regulated embedded systems environments.
• Experience in the adoption and/or integration of emerging technologies (e.g., generative AI, automation platforms, digital assistants) into day-to-day operations to drive continuous improvement.
• Active security clearance or the ability to obtain a clearance.

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.