Mechanical Designer and Drafter - Secret Clearance

We’re seeking engineers who thrive on solving hard problems and turning bold ideas into real-world solutions. If you’re driven to design, develop, and test technology that truly makes an impact, you’ll feel at home here.

Quest Defense Systems & Solutions is actively hiring Mechanical Design and Drafters create and maintain 2D drawings, 3D models, and digital designs for aero-engine components, assemblies, and support equipment. In this role, you will use CAD tools to develop accurate product designs, apply GD&T, and work with engineering and manufacturing teams to ensure designs meet performance, quality, and production requirements. You will also support digital engine models and help improve design quality and delivery.

Location: This role is 100% onsite in Cincinnati, OH.  Relocation Assistance is available

Due to the nature of these roles, applicants must be US Citizens and be willing to obtain or currently hold a clearance.

Key Responsibilities:

- Create definition of parts, modules, and assemblies related to Aero-engines in the form of 2D cross sections, 3D reusable models, tolerance stack-ups, change in design co-authoring and various other electronic data formats to support engineering, analysis, manufacturing, assembly, tooling, quality and inspection.

- Developing new design models of support equipment for Gas Turbine assembly/disassembly and repair.

- Work with engineering, manufacturing, and supply chain partners to determine dimensional constraints and geometric tolerances required for proper clearances and fits while maximizing manufacturing producibility, maintainability, reliability, and durability.

- Ensure design meets the needs of all stakeholders.

- Working with assembly models in Vismockup tool, position & save models to the Digital Engine then maintain and support up to date digital engine builds.

- Complete complex design models, free form & parametric modeling and checking complex drawings.

- Utilization of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) as it relates to individual parts and overall assemblies (ANSI Y14.5).

- Spearhead product definition engineering initiatives to improve quality & speed, and develop checklists & review mechanisms for delivery excellence.

- Working knowledge of computer aided design (CAD), computer aided manufacturing (CAM), manufacturing processes, and in Siemens NX & Teamcenter environment.

- Manage complete project work scopes within budgets and schedules, deliver quality while reporting sufficient project status updates for project management mechanisms.

- Work within the guidelines of applicable Policies & Procedures, Engineering Standards, Specifications, and compliance procedures.

- Manage consistent operational excellence on the assigned programs (i.e. metrics, partner interaction, OTD, FTY, Cost and responsiveness).

- Document technical data generated by the assigned project consistent with engineering policies and procedures.

- Some local travel

Qualifications:

- BS or associate degree (Engineering technology) from an accredited university or college (or a high school diploma / GED with a minimum of 1+ years of 3D modeling experience)

- Minimum 1 years of 3D modeling experience

- Ability to easily interpret technical drawings with understanding of GD&T.

- Demonstrated ability to meet deadlines, work under time constraints, maintain composure and handle multiple tasks simultaneously.

- Ability to interact with employees/managers at all levels with strong oral and written communication skills.

- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work in a team environment.

- Must be eligible for security clearance (US CITIZEN)

Desired Skills:

- 3D modeling experience on Aero-engines/Gas turbines components

- Like to work in a fast paced, creative environment

- Experience in Siemens NX / Teamcenter environment

- 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:

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
$66,000 — $73,000 USD

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.