Quality Engineer Lead

About the Role: We are seeking an experienced, hands‑on Manufacturing Quality Engineer Lead to oversee the implementation of our quality management systems and drive process design and improvements. This role combines engineering expertise with leadership skills to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve sustainability in our manufacturing operations. You will lead a small team of quality technicians, while also working closely with cross‑functional teams including product design engineers, manufacturing personnel, test/maintenance teams, and supply chain. In addition to process improvement, you’ll remain actively engaged in hands‑on quality inspection and troubleshooting, ensuring a strong foundation of knowledge about our parts and products. This role will appeal to individuals who enjoy both strategic problem‑solving and mentoring others.

Impact You’ll Own

• Develop and manage comprehensive quality systems, including standards for incoming inspections and ongoing production performance.
• Optimize manufacturing processes from inception to validation by leading Lean KAIZEN events, performing gap analyses, and establishing cross‑functional feedback loops.
• Execute hands‑on inspections and troubleshooting to resolve supplier and in‑line quality failures, while managing nonconforming materials (MRB) and vendor audit processes.
• Drive continuous improvement by monitoring quality metrics, leading management reviews, and communicating performance through detailed dashboards.
• Provide daily production quality support and lead risk assessments (FMEA) to ensure robust documentation and improved product reliability.

What You Bring

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related field.
• 6+ years of experience in quality engineering, quality assurance, or manufacturing operations, of which 2+ years is hands‑on experience as a quality technician.
• Mechanical aptitude and experience working in manufacturing environments.
• Familiarity with OSHA health and safety regulations.
• Working knowledge of ISO9001, AS9100, or similar quality systems (implementation and audit experience preferred).
• Ability to write and update inspection guides and standard operating procedures.
• Exceptional attention to detail and the ability to communicate quality issues effectively.
• Skilled in reading and interpreting mechanical drawings.
• Proficient with basic and precision measurement tools (calipers, micrometers, drop gauges, etc.).
• Exceptional knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles and 5S.
• Proficiency in using Google Docs, Sheets, and other standard documentation tools.

What Makes You Stand Out

• Lean Six Sigma Certification (Green Belt or Black Belt).
• ASQ certification.
• Experience building and leading quality functions in manufacturing environments.
• Experience in a start‑up manufacturing setting.
• Ability to quickly learn and apply new engineering concepts.
• Experience successfully implementing continuous improvement processes.
• Ability to mentor and coach others to achieve their full potential.

Export Control Requirements

Planet Labs Germany GmbH is authorized to receive U.S. export‑controlled information at Planet under an export license issued by the Bureau of Industry and Security. This position requires access to export‑controlled information, and as such, employment (or hiring of a contractor) is contingent upon the candidate’s ability to access all applicable export‑controlled information without additional export licensing being required by the Bureau of Industry and Security and/or the Directorate of Defense Trade Controls.

Benefits While Working at Planet

• Paid time off including vacation, holidays and company‑wide days off.
• Employee Wellness Program.
• Home Office Reimbursement.
• Monthly Phone and Internet Reimbursement.
• Tuition Reimbursement and access to LinkedIn Learning.
• Equity.
• Volunteering.
• San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance commitment to consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Application Deadline

October 6, 2026 at 11:59p PT

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement

Planet is committed to building a community where everyone belongs and we invite people from all backgrounds to apply. Planet is an equal opportunity employer, and committed to providing employment opportunities regardless of race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, childbirth and breastfeeding, age, sexual orientation, military or veteran status, or any other protected classification, in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. Know Your Rights. Accommodations: Planet is an inclusive community and we know that everyone has their own needs. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation during the hiring process, please reach out to or contact your recruiter with your request. Your message will be confidential and we will be happy to assist you.