Senior Model Based Definition Engineer
Quest Defense Systems & Solutions, Inc.
$80,000 - $90,000 / year
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Description
We’re engineering the future of aerospace and defense. If you thrive on tackling complex challenges and delivering solutions where precision and reliability are non-negotiable, we want you on our team. Here, your expertise powers mission-critical systems that safeguard lives, advance technology, and push the boundaries of what’s possible. Join us and bring your skills to work where innovation meets impact.
Quest Defense Systems & Solutions is expanding our Model Based Definition team!
Location: Onsite- Windsor Locks, CT
Citizenship Requirements: Due to the nature of the work, US Citizenship is required
Clearance Requirements: an active Secret Clearance or a secret clearance that's been active within the last 5 years or the ability to obtain one.
As a member of our team, you will be responsible for creating and updating engineering drawings and parts lists. You will work with product definition leaders to develop accurate 3D models and 2D layouts for aerospace sub‑systems and engine control products that meet engineering and customer requirements.
This role includes building solid models and detailed drawings for components and assemblies, ensuring each design reflects a manufacturable product. Drafters must understand how each part functions, select proper functional datums, and show how components fit within the full assembly. You will create all needed views and dimensions using ASME standards and GD&T methods to support clear tolerance and production requirements.
Key Responsibilities:
- Create 2D drawings for piece parts, housings, and assemblies in NX, and manage Bill of Materials
- Create part definition using MBD model based definition practices for high complexity piece parts and assemblies
- Check drawings for accuracy, correct GD&T, and compliance to the aerospace industry and customer drafting and manufacturing standards
- Update 3D models or detail drawings throughout the various review cycles per engineering input.
- Implement model/drawing updates as per engineering change requests
- Support product design reviews and coordinate work with project, engineering, and manufacturing teams
- Ensure proper filing, control, and export classification of created design data
- Able to work effectively in a team environment, comprehend and implement oral and written inputs and coordinate with project group on each program you support
- Strict adherence to the design process is mandatory for successful realization of product for our demanding customers. Attention to detail is critical to ensure a safe and reliable product is placed into service
Requirements:
- An associates degree in STEM with 3+ years relevant experience or a Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering with 3+ years of relevant experience.
- Proficient with Siemens NX/Teamcenter environments
- The ability to interpret technical drawings and design intent notes
- Understanding of ASME Y14.5 Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing
- Experience with model based definition (MBD) practices including creating 3D drawings
- Familiarity with aerospace industry standards, regulations, and best practices.
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy in drafting and documentation.
- Proven capacity to meet deadlines, thrive under time constraints, maintain composure, and adeptly juggle multiple tasks with outstanding communication skills, both written and oral, engaging with employees and managers at all levels.
- Strong interpersonal skills and a passion for collaborative teamwork while thriving in a fast-paced, creative environment, enjoying the dynamic synergy of diverse teams.
- Knowledge of manufacturing processes, materials, and assembly techniques relevant to aerospace applications is a plus.
- US Citizen and an active Secret Clearance or a secret clearance that's been active within the last 5 years or the ability to obtain one.
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.
- Due to the nature of the work, all candidates must be a U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident.
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
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.
Benefits
- 401(k)
- professional development
About this role
Quest Defense is looking for a Senior Model Based Definition Engineer to join their aerospace and defense team in Windsor Locks, Connecticut. You'll create and refine 3D models and 2D engineering drawings for complex aerospace subsystems and engine control products, working in NX/Teamcenter to produce designs that meet strict aerospace standards and customer requirements. The work demands precision with GD&T, ASME standards, and model-based definition practices—every dimension and tolerance you specify directly affects manufacturability and mission safety.
This role suits someone with at least three years of relevant drafting or engineering experience, a solid grasp of aerospace manufacturing processes, and genuine fluency in NX. You'll coordinate across product definition, engineering, and manufacturing teams throughout design reviews and change cycles, which means strong communication and the ability to manage multiple priorities under deadline pressure are essential. The position requires US citizenship and an active or recently active Secret clearance (or eligibility to obtain one).
The job is full-time, in-office with occasional shop floor visits, and pays $80,000–$90,000 depending on experience. Beyond base salary, Quest offers medical/dental/life coverage, a 401(k) match, and professional development support. If you're detail-oriented, thrive in regulated environments where process adherence is non-negotiable, and want your technical work to directly support mission-critical systems, this is worth a close look.
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Pay for this role
$80,000 to $90,000 per year
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