Systems Engineer - MBSE/Simulink

Quest Defense Systems & Solutions, Inc.
Cedar Rapids, IA
On-site

Who this role is best for

Geared toward candidates with advanced STEM degrees and hands-on experience in MATLAB and Simulink, comfortable with algorithmic testing and system troubleshooting.

Best fit for

  • Candidates with advanced STEM degrees and experience in algorithmic modeling and simulation
    — “Master’s degree in Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Applied Mathematics, or a related discipline.”
  • Individuals with a background in statistical analysis and system-level troubleshooting
    — “Experience in reading and developing algorithm descriptions, mathematical expressions and derivations, matrix manipulations, outlier analysis, and system level analysis”
  • Candidates who can independently execute tasks and mentor others in technical environments
    — “Eventually, the candidate may be responsible for helping to provide guidance, coaching, and training to other employees within their job area.”

Things to consider

  • Onsite presence in Cedar Rapids is mandatory, with no mention of remote flexibility.
    — “This position is onsite based in Cedar Rapids, IA.”
  • U.S. citizenship is a strict requirement for this role.
    — “U.S. citizenship is required.”

How to stand out

  • Highlight experience with model-based systems engineering (MBSE) and Simulink-based algorithm validation.
    — “Test and validate navigation algorithms and algorithmic models using MATLAB and Simulink.”
  • Emphasize your ability to document complex mathematical derivations and produce technical plots.
    — “comfortable with documenting equations, derivations, and generating plots in MATLAB.”
  • Showcase your background in data analysis and problem-solving, especially with anomalies.
    — “Experience in performing data analysis and problem solving (e.g. anomaly investigation)”
Pace · SteadyCollaboration · HighAutonomy · MediumDecision Impact · Team

Derived from job-description analysis by Serendipath's career intelligence engine.

What success looks like

  • validated navigation algorithms
  • developed test infrastructure
Typical background
systems engineersoftware developer

Skills & requirements

Required

MatlabSimulinkModel-based DevelopmentData Analysis

Preferred

Code OptimizationNumerical StabilityEmerging Technologies

Stack & domain

MatlabSimulinkCode OptimizationNumerical StabilityData AnalysisStatistical AnalysisModel-based DevelopmentAlgorithmic ModelsSystem TroubleshootingCode ReviewsSoftware PracticesMathematical ModelingAnomaly InvestigationEmerging TechnologiesGenerative AIAutomation PlatformsDigital AssistantsCommunicationCollaborationProblem SolvingTeam WorkTrainingSystems EngineeringGPS Navigation Systems

About the role

Original posting from Quest Defense Systems & Solutions, Inc.

Unlock the power of Safety and Mission Critical Engineering with QDSS. We are seeking exceptional individuals to join our elite team- where your expertise will make an impact that matters. Elevate your career in a company dedicated to excellence and the pursuit of safety and mission success. 

We are seeking a Senior MBSE Systems Engineer. This position for an individual with educational and/or professional experience in the development of solutions to GPS Navigation Systems. This individual will be required to run and test modeling and simulation of algorithmic models using Simulink and MATLAB. The work is highly technical, and the individual must be comfortable with documenting equations, derivations, and generating plots in MATLAB. The individual must be comfortable with data and statistical analysis. In addition to Model-based Development work, the role will also include lab-based contributions on the target products.

The successful candidate must be able to work on individual tasks under limited supervision, or with a team to achieve operational targets, and must have the ability to communicate and collaborate with parties within and outside of their own job function. Eventually, the candidate may be responsible for helping to provide guidance, coaching, and training to other employees within their job area.

This position is onsite based in Cedar Rapids, IA. Relocation assistance is available. U.S. citizenship is required.

What You’ll Do

Test and validate navigation algorithms and algorithmic models using MATLAB and Simulink.

Develop tools and test infrastructure needed to perform comprehensive model and algorithm testing.

Conduct analyses for system troubleshooting

Improve code quality by performing code reviews and good software practices

Analyze data using advanced mathematical and statistical techniques

Required Qualifications: 

Bachelor’s degree in a STEM discipline with at least five years of relevant experience, or an advanced STEM degree with at least three years of relevant experience.

Experience in MATLAB and Simulink

Experience in Code optimization and/or numerical stability

Experience in the Systems Engineering discipline

Experience in reading and developing algorithm descriptions, mathematical expressions and derivations, matrix manipulations, outlier analysis, and system level analysis

Ability to work onsite in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

U.S. citizenship is required.

Preferred Qualifications: 

Master’s degree in Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Applied Mathematics, or a related discipline.

Professional background specializing in performing complex statistical analysis and/or mathematical modeling

Experience in performing data analysis and problem solving (e.g. anomaly investigation)

Experience adopting and/or integrating 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. 

Full compensation package is based on candidate experience and certifications

Pay Ranges$130,000—$160,000 USDAt 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. This is where problem-solvers, innovators, and visionary thinkers come together to shape the future. 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. Together, we’re not just leading the industry — we’re revolutionizing it.

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.The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Source: Quest Defense Systems & Solutions, Inc. careers

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