Electronic Hardware Engineer

Shape the future of innovation as we tackle cutting-edge projects that make a difference. We're not just in the business of engineering—we're building a brighter future. Driven by creativity and a culture of excellence, we believe in the power of engineering to solve today's challenges and create opportunities for tomorrow. What we do matters.
Quest Defense Systems & Solutions is seeking an Electronic Hardware Engineer to support the development of a next-generation control system for small modular nuclear reactors in the nuclear power industry. This role focuses on PCB design and hardware development, contributing across the full lifecycle from schematic capture and layout through validation and production support.
You'll work alongside senior engineers on highly reliable, safety-critical systems, gaining exposure to real-world challenges including signal integrity, thermal performance, EMI, and manufacturability.
Location: Remote, though onsite/hybrid is preferred in Wilmington, NC.
Clearance: All applicants must be U.S. Citizens or Permanent Residents.
Key Responsibilities
Support PCB design and development activities across the full lifecycle
Contribute to schematic capture, PCB layout, routing, and placement using tools such as Altium
Assist with component selection and BOM development under guidance from senior engineers
Apply board-level design considerations, including signal integrity, EMI, and thermal performance
Participate in board bring-up, debugging, and hardware validation efforts
Support integration and system-level testing, including documenting results and resolving issues
Assist in developing manufacturing test procedures and supporting production readiness
Troubleshoot hardware issues across development and test environments
Support mechanical integration considerations, including packaging and enclosure constraints
Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including systems, software, and manufacturing
Communicate progress and technical findings to team leads and stakeholders
Required Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field
5+ years of experience in electronic hardware / PCB design
Experience contributing to PCB development (schematic, layout, or validation)
Familiarity with PCB design tools (Altium or equivalent)
Exposure to board bring-up, debugging, or hardware testing
Experience in regulated or high-reliability industries (aerospace, defense, nuclear, etc.)
Experience working in a team-based hardware development environment
Strong communication skills and ability to collaborate across teams
Preferred Qualifications
Foundational understanding of:
Signal integrity
EMI/EMC considerations
Thermal basics
Background in instrumentation & controls (I&C) or control systems hardware
Exposure to DFM/DFA or working with manufacturing teams
Experience supporting integration or system-level testing
Familiarity with design documentation and engineering processes
Experience working on complex or multi-board systems
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.
At 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.