Software Build, Tools & Infrastructure Engineer

Immediately hiring Software Build, Tools & Infrastructure Engineers!

Shape the future with breakthrough tech, bold ideas, and a team that thrives on solving the toughest challenges.


Quest Defense Systems and Solutions is seeking experienced Software Build, Tools & Infrastructure Engineers to join our team to supplement the customer team, maintain engine control tools, build systems, and simulation environments. This role focuses on sustaining critical build, CI, and debugging infrastructure for embedded/aerospace-related software projects. The ideal candidate has strong scripting skills and hands-on experience maintaining complex, multi-toolchain build pipelines in a mission-critical or regulated environment.

Due to the nature of the project, all applicants must be U.S. citizens.

This role can be done remotely, with a strong preference for candidates based in Cincinnati, OH.

Responsibilities:

• Maintain the software build ecosystem, ensuring stability, reliability, and ongoing support for development and release activities.


• Build Manager and CI/CD Operator:
  
  
  
  • Perform daily monitoring and maintenance: restart services following machine reboots or network disruptions.
  
  
  • Monitor build/CI jobs for failures, diagnose root causes (build machine issues, configuration errors, etc.), take corrective actions, or implement fixes.
  
  
  • Maintain and troubleshoot CI pipelines and related infrastructure.
  
  


• Administer Artifactory (or equivalent artifact repository tool):
  
  
  
  • Handle user account provisioning and access management.
  
  
  • Support migration activities and IT-related administrative tasks for repositories and artifacts.
  
  


• Perform advanced Build Tools Maintenance and Enhancements:
  
  
  
  • Debug and fix issues in build tools, makefiles, and build scripts.
  
  
  • Implement makefile modifications and build process improvements
  
  


• Simulation & Debugging Support:
  
  
  
  • Debug issues in engine system simulated test environment.
  
  
  • Develop and add helper functions/scripts to improve simulation usability and diagnostics.
  
  
  • Create standardized work instructions/procedures (e.g., troubleshooting guides or standard operating procedures) for developers to follow when encountering software/simulation issues.
  
  

Required Skills:

• Strong scripting/programming: Perl, Python, Tcl, PostScript (for legacy document/build processing).


• Build and CI expertise:
  
  
  
  • Hands-on knowledge of Apache Ant.
  
  
  • Familiarity with IBM Engineering Lifecycle Management (ELM) tools, including:
    
    
    
    • Engineering Workflow Management (EWM) for build definitions and pipelines.
    
    
    • Engineering Test Management (ETM) (if integrated with build/validation).
    
    
  
  
  • Experience managing build artifacts, repositories (Artifactory preferred), and CI failures.
  
  


• Deep understanding of embedded/aerospace software toolchain:
  
  
  
  • SCADE (for model-based design).
  
  
  • Simics (full-system simulation and debugging, including breakpoint setup, tracing, reverse execution).
  
  
  • NPSS (Numerical Propulsion System Simulation, for propulsion/thermodynamic modeling if applicable).
  
  
  • ARM compiler toolchain.
  
  
  • Makefiles, C programming, and embedded build processes.
  
  


• Debugging capabilities:
  
  
  
  • Experience with embedded debuggers and low-level debugging in simulated environments (Simics preferred).
  
  
  • Ability to write Python/C-based extensions or helpers for simulation tools.
  
  


• Additional strengths:
  
  
  
  • Broad knowledge of software architecture in embedded systems (real-time constraints, hardware-software interaction).
  
  
  • Comfortable working with legacy codebases and tools.
  
  
  • Strong problem-solving skills for root-cause analysis in production-like CI/build environments.
  
  
  • Excellent documentation skills to create maintainable procedures and guides.
  
  

Desired Skills:

• Prior experience in aerospace, defense, or propulsion system software development.


• Familiarity with migration of legacy build systems or artifact repositories.


• Knowledge of continuous integration best practices in regulated industries.


• Onsite in Cincinnati, OH a plus


• 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.

Physical Requirements & Work Environment:

• Mostly Office Environments, Occasional Shop Floor involvement.


• Substantial amounts of telephone and computer work.


• Heavily Regulated Industries with strict adherence to procedures.


• Flexibility to meet business deadlines by staying late or arriving early.


• Typical 8 hour days plus lunch / 40 hour weeks / core (required) hours are 9AM to 4PM


• Ability to use personal transportation to visit customer locations.

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.

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

$80,000 - $95,000 USD