Mechanical Design Engineer - Structures & Systems

Embark on a journey with QDSS at the forefront of technological innovation as we seek talented Engineers to shape the future of cutting-edge projects and contribute to a culture of excellence and creativity.  What we do matters.

Quest Defense Systems & Solutions is seeking an experienced Mechanical Design Engineer to lead the integration of aircraft structures and systems across the product lifecycle. This position will serve as a technical focal point for design architecture, interfaces, manufacturing integration, certification, and engineering change management.

• Location: Remote; Eastern or Central time zone preferred
• Preferred Proximity: Cincinnati, Ohio, or Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas
• Travel: Less than 25%
• Citizenship Requirement: Must qualify as a U.S. Person
• Security Clearance: Not required at the time of hire; ability to obtain a clearance in the future is preferred

What You Will Do:

• Lead conceptual layouts and integration solutions for aircraft structures and systems.
• Design primary and secondary structures, systems installations, and antenna installations for advanced connectivity systems.
• Define system architecture, interfaces, installation requirements, and Interface Control Drawings.
• Prepare structural and systems layouts, installation drawings, and detailed engineering drawings.
• Perform trade studies to optimize weight, cost, performance, and manufacturability.
• Develop and process Program Change Requests and manage modifications through configuration control.
• Evaluate the technical, cost, schedule, risk, and profitability impacts of proposed changes.
• Coordinate technical integration across Stress, Systems, Interiors, Aerodynamics, Mass Properties, Manufacturing, Quality, and Certification.
• Lead technical meetings with customers and suppliers and ensure the delivery of quality engineering documentation.
• Chair or support design reviews, risk assessments, and program milestone gates.
• Support manufacturing, production, and shop-floor issue resolution.
• Apply Design for Manufacturing and Design for Assembly principles.
• Support verification, validation, testing, qualification, and certification activities.
• Maintain accurate product lifecycle management and configuration data.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to other engineers.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• At least 5 years of aerospace engineering experience involving aircraft structures or systems integration.
• Experience designing primary and secondary airframe structures and systems installations.
• Proficiency with CATIA V5 or Siemens NX.
• Experience developing layouts, installation drawings, interface drawings, and detailed designs.
• Knowledge of materials and processes, GD&T, aerospace design standards, and preliminary sizing.
• Understanding of aircraft systems, structural interfaces, manufacturing processes, and industrialization.
• Knowledge of CAR, FAR, or CS certification requirements and compliance processes.
• Experience with configuration management and PLM systems such as ENOVIA or Teamcenter.
• Strong technical leadership, communication, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Must qualify as a U.S. Person under applicable export-control regulations.

Desired Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• At least 15 years of relevant aerospace engineering experience.
• Experience with antenna or aircraft connectivity-system installations.
• Knowledge of aircraft interiors integration and in-service maintenance constraints.
• French-language proficiency.
• Ability to obtain a U.S. security clearance in the future.
• Experience in the adoption and/or integration of emerging technologies (e.g., generative AI, automation platforms, digital assistants) into day-to-day operations for continuous improvement.

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. 

Pay Ranges 130000 - 145000 USD