Senior Hardware Engineer / Technical Lead - RF & Avionics

Quest Defense Systems & Solutions, Inc. • $129K — $169K *
Phoenix, AZ 85032In-Person
Aerospace & Defense
5 - 7 years of experience
Today
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Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 5-15 years of hardware engineering experience in airborne avionics, RF, or high-reliability electronics.
  • Hands-on experience with RF, digital, and mixed-signal hardware development.
  • Proven leadership in coordinating multidisciplinary hardware development teams.
  • Experience managing hardware from requirements through production.
  • Familiarity with IBM DOORS or similar tools for requirements management and traceability.
  • Strong troubleshooting skills for hardware, FPGA, and software integration.
  • Direct experience with TCAS, transponder, or airborne surveillance systems.

Responsibilities

  • Lead hardware development from requirements to production.
  • Coordinate multidisciplinary activities across RF, digital, and mechanical domains.
  • Manage hardware requirements and technical dependencies using appropriate tools.
  • Develop and execute hardware verification plans and resolve anomalies.
  • Support RF/antenna integration and aircraft installation.
  • Facilitate engineering-to-production transitions and corrective actions.
  • Lead technical reviews and mentor junior engineers.

Benefits

  • Competitive pay and comprehensive medical, dental, life, and disability coverage.
  • 401(k) with employer match.
  • Professional development support.
  • Flexible and friendly workplace environment.
Full Job Description
We are seeking an experienced Senior Hardware Engineer / Hardware Technical Lead to lead development, integration, verification, qualification, and production transition of hardware supporting TCAS, transponder, and airborne surveillance systems. This hands-on role spans RF, digital/mixed-signal electronics, FPGA, verification, manufacturing, and certification.

Location: Phoenix, Arizona. On-site preferred, 3+ days/week

Citizenship: U.S. Person

Key Responsibilities
  • Lead hardware development from requirements and architecture through design, integration, verification, qualification, and production.
  • Coordinate RF, digital/mixed-signal, FPGA, mechanical, safety, verification, manufacturing, and certification activities.
  • Develop and manage hardware requirements, traceability, plans, milestones, risks, and technical dependencies using IBM DOORS or comparable tools.
  • Lead hardware verification plans, procedures, test environments, execution, and anomaly resolution.
  • Develop/review RF, digital, and mixed-signal designs supporting TCAS, transponder, and surveillance systems.
  • Lead hardware/software/FPGA integration and troubleshoot complex system issues across laboratory, qualification, aircraft, and flight-test environments.
  • Support RF/antenna integration, including placement, performance, radiation patterns, interference, and aircraft installation.
  • Support manufacturing, production testing, engineering-to-production transition, and corrective actions.
  • Support DO-254, DO-160, TSO, and FAA certification activities and documentation.
  • Lead technical reviews, customer interactions, issue resolution, and closure of technical actions.
  • Provide technical direction and mentoring to hardware engineers.

Required Qualifications
  • 5-15 years of relevant hardware engineering experience, preferably in airborne avionics, RF, or high-reliability electronics.
  • Hands-on experience developing RF, digital, and/or mixed-signal hardware.
  • Experience leading or coordinating multidisciplinary hardware development teams.
  • Experience taking hardware from requirements through design, integration, verification, qualification, and production.
  • Experience with hardware requirements, decomposition, allocation, validation, traceability, and IBM DOORS or comparable tools.
  • Experience developing and executing hardware verification plans, procedures, and testing.
  • Strong hardware integration, troubleshooting, and root-cause analysis skills, including hardware/FPGA/software/system interfaces.
  • Experience transitioning engineering hardware into manufacturing and production.
  • Strong technical leadership, communication, mentoring, and problem-solving skills.
  • Direct experience with TCAS, transponder, ADS-B, or airborne surveillance hardware.
  • Working knowledge of DO-254, including requirements, design, implementation, verification, configuration management, process assurance, traceability, and design assurance.
  • Familiarity with DO-160, including EMI/EMC, environmental, lightning, and aircraft installation qualification.
  • Experience supporting TSO authorization andFAA certification programs.
  • Must meet U.S. Person requirements.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with Mode C and Mode S interrogation and reply systems.
  • Knowledge of TCAS/surveillance antenna systems, including antenna design, placement, radiation patterns, RF coverage, surveillance performance, interference, and EMI.
  • Experience designing RF transmit/receive hardware and digital/mixed-signal electronics.
  • Experience with certification documentation and formal certification reviews.
  • Experience supporting laboratory, aircraft ground-test, and flight-test activities.
  • Experience troubleshooting RF or hardware performance issues during aircraft testing.
  • Experience with aerospace manufacturing and production hardware.
  • Familiarity with FPGA-based hardware architectures and FPGA/hardware/software interfaces.
  • Experience with aircraft OEMs, avionics suppliers, certification authorities, or external customers.

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

$129,000-$169,000 USD

About Quest Defense Systems & Solutions, Inc.

Quest Defense Systems & Solutions, Inc. Careers

Joining Quest Defense Systems & Solutions, Inc. presents an unparalleled opportunity to become part of an elite team of professionals specializing in defense technology and solutions. This is a pivotal time to contribute to a company that values innovation, leadership, and a commitment to excellence.

Career Opportunities and Growth

Quest Defense Systems & Solutions, Inc. offers a variety of job opportunities that cater to a range of skills and professional interests. The company is dedicated to the professional growth and continuous career development of all team members. From leadership roles to entry-level positions, Quest Defense Systems & Solutions, Inc. is actively hiring individuals who are passionate, driven, and ready to contribute to high-stakes projects.

Innovative Work Environment

At Quest Defense Systems & Solutions, Inc., innovation is at the core of everything they do. The team is tasked with developing advanced solutions that keep them at the forefront of the defense industry. Employees at Quest Defense Systems & Solutions, Inc. are encouraged to think creatively and push boundaries to achieve the best results.

Internship Programs

For those starting their career, Quest Defense Systems & Solutions, Inc. offers robust internship programs that provide hands-on experience in a highly supportive environment. Internships are a great way to build your resume, develop new skills, and gain valuable industry insight. Many interns move on to full-time positions, making this a great gateway to a career with Quest Defense Systems & Solutions, Inc.

Diversity and Inclusion

Quest Defense Systems & Solutions, Inc. is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. The company believes that diversity fuels innovation and creates a stronger team. Diversity training is integral to their culture, ensuring that all employees have the opportunity to thrive.

Benefits and Culture

The culture at Quest Defense Systems & Solutions, Inc. is built on a foundation of respect and integrity. Employees enjoy a range of benefits designed to support their professional and personal lives. These benefits include health care, retirement plans, and paid time off, among others. The supportive culture ensures that everyone feels valued and can perform at their best.

Networking and Professional Development

Quest Defense Systems & Solutions, Inc. emphasizes the importance of professional development and networking. Employees are encouraged to engage in continuous learning and are provided with numerous opportunities for advancement. Career development programs and leadership training are just a few of the resources available to help employees meet their career goals.

Join the Quest Defense Systems & Solutions, Inc. Team

Explore the career pages to find open positions that match your skills and interests. Quest Defense Systems & Solutions, Inc. is looking for dedicated, curious, and innovative team players. Start your journey by applying today and prepare for a series of interviews where you can showcase your capabilities.

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Explore Jobs at Quest Defense Systems & Solutions, Inc.

Whether you're seeking a position in engineering, management, or support, Quest Defense Systems & Solutions, Inc. has opportunities that can lead to a rewarding career. Join a team that is dedicated to protecting and empowering global operations through innovative solutions and technologies.
Learn more about Quest Defense Systems & Solutions, Inc.
Industry
Aerospace & Defense
* Ladders Estimates

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