Chief Software Architect

Key Responsibilities

• Customer-Facing Architecture Leadership
• Act as the primary technical point of contact between our engineering teams and customer leadership
• Turn customer requirements, contract scope, and certification needs into a clear, executable architecture approach
• Lead architecture discussions, trade studies, and key technical decisions with customer stakeholders
• Help guide the customer's technical direction while staying aligned with program scope and delivery commitments
• Present architecture, compliance approach, and technical risks in customer and executive reviews

Required Qualifications

• Degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field
• Significant experience architecting DO-178C compliant software (DAL A experience preferred)
• Background working in an engineering services or supplier delivery environment
• Proven ability to lead software architecture across multiple teams and programs
• Solid embedded software foundation (C/C++ in avionics-type environments)
• Experience working directly with customers on regulated aerospace programs

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting major aerospace OEMs or Tier 1 suppliers
• ARINC 653 or partitioned RTOS environments
• Multicore certification strategy
• Model-based development exposure (DO-331 context)
• Integration lab or iron-bird environment exposure
• Experience building or scaling Centers of Excellence or capability-based delivery teams
• Experience in 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

• 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
• Culture That Works – A flexible, collaborative, and people-first environment that values teamwork, innovation, and balance

Benefits Include

• Competitive pay
• Comprehensive medical/dental/life and disability coverage
• 401(k) with employer match
• Professional development support
• A flexible, friendly workplace