Project Analyst Co-op

Embark on a journey with QDSS at the forefront of technological innovation as we seek talented Engineers to shape the future of cutting-edge projects and contribute to a culture of excellence and creativity.  What we do matters.  

Quest Defense Systems & Solutions is seeking a Project Analyst Co-op. In this role, you will help engineering teams plan and track project schedules, monitor commitments for critical engine hardware, and keep action items and issues moving toward resolution. 

You will work with people across engineering and program teams to identify schedule changes, coordinate due dates, and prepare clear progress reports for project leaders. This co-op offers practical experience in how aerospace engineering projects are organized, communicated, and delivered. Work may take place at our Blue Ash office, the UC 1819 Innovation Hub, and a customer site. 

The duration of this co-op will be 1/11-4/28.

Location: Onsite in Cincinnati, OH for the Winter semester (January 2027 through April 2027) 
Clearance: All applicants must be U.S. Citizens or Permanent Residents. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Develop, track, and build tools engineering project schedules 
• Track schedule, commit dates & delivery of critical engine hardware 
• Track/communication of action items 
• Prepare project schedule variance and recovery plan 
• Provide weekly progress updates on existing issues until items are closed 
• Review issue logs daily and acknowledge and process new issues 
• Manage/coordinate due dates on a weekly basis to prevent issues from becoming overdue 
• Participate in internal team calls to engage help where needed to resolve issues 
• Interact with multiple organizations and management levels 
• Leverage internal contacts to drive issues to closure 
• Prepare & present weekly & monthly reports 

Preferred Skills: 

• Working towards bachelor’s degree in aerospace, mechanical, industrial, computer science engineering 
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Project, Smartsheet, or other scheduling software 
• Experience in data analytics projects and coding projects 
• 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. 

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.  

About Us 

At QDSS, we are more than an engineering company—we are a force for innovation and positive change. With over 25 years of proven expertise in solving mission-critical challenges, we empower our team to push boundaries, combining deep industry knowledge, cutting-edge technology, and a collaborative "think tank" approach.

Our vision is to be the trusted partner of choice for our defense and aerospace clients, delivering secure, sustainable, and world-class solutions that build a brighter future.