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Planet designs, builds, and operates the largest constellation of imaging satellites in history. We are seeking an experienced Senior Quality Engineer to support the implementation of quality management systems and drive process design and continuous improvement in our San Francisco manufacturing facility.
You will work in close partnership with the Quality Engineer Lead to execute strategic quality objectives, enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and elevate product reliability across manufacturing operations. You will collaborate with a small team of quality technicians while interfacing daily with cross-functional teams including product design engineers, manufacturing personnel, test/maintenance teams, and supply chain.
Key responsibilities include: implementing and maintaining comprehensive Quality Management Systems (QMS); guiding, training, and mentoring quality technicians on advanced inspection techniques and standard operating procedures; supporting internal and external vendor audit preparation and delivering monthly management review presentations; developing and refining standardized procedures for incoming raw material inspections, in-process testing, and final product release criteria; providing hands-on quality engineering support to production teams to resolve manufacturing non-conformances; monitoring quality metrics (yield, scrap, cost-of-poor-quality) and maintaining real-time performance dashboards; optimizing manufacturing processes through Lean Kaizen events and gap analyses; leading Process Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (PFMEA) sessions; performing technical root-cause analysis using 8D, 5-Why, and Fishbone methodologies; executing the nonconforming material (MRB) process and collaborating on vendor corrective action requests; and authoring technical inspection documentation and SOPs.
You bring a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related technical discipline; 6+ years of quality engineering, quality assurance, or manufacturing operations experience; 2+ years of hands-on experience as a quality technician or inspection engineer; ability to support Quality Leads in managing quality workflows and QMS initiatives; working knowledge of ISO 9001, AS9100, or similar quality management systems; and exceptional ability to read and interpret complex mechanical engineering drawings and geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T). This is a full-time, in-office position based in San Francisco HQ, 5 days per week.
