Principal Metrology Engineer (Hardware)

Quantumscape; California; On-site; USD 167,000 - 205,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual bonus

RSU/Equity package

Health insurance

Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)

Job summary

QuantumScape is seeking a Principal Metrology Engineer (Hardware) in CA, US to advance metrology tools that connect image data with battery performance. You will develop scalable optical inspection systems and help lead a team of engineers across imaging and metrology projects.

The role demands hands-on experience with imaging/characterization tools, machine vision software, and sensors, plus strong MSA/DOE knowledge. You will own end-to-end system lifecycle and collaborate across teams.

Qualifications

• Hands-on experience developing, validating, and scaling imaging or characterization tools.
• Strong understanding of metrology and imaging hardware and software.
• Experience leading engineering projects in manufacturing environments.

Responsibilities

• Develop and deploy scalable metrology systems using optical inspection techniques.
• Lead junior team members on optical inspection projects.
• Manage lifecycle of inspection systems: requirements, installation, calibration, maintenance, and improvements.
• Collaborate across teams to prioritize requirements for diverse projects.
• Process metrology data at high volume to enable automatic scrap decisions.

Skills

Machine vision

Imaging tools development

Measurement systems analysis

Design of experiments

Python (numpy, matplotlib, pandas, cv2

Education

BS/MS/PhD in manufacturing/metrology

Tools

Python (numpy, matplotlib, pandas, cv2, skimage)

Job description

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Title: Principal Metrology Engineer (Hardware)

Date: Sep 25, 2026

Location: CA, US

Work Location Type: On-site

Description:

QuantumScape developed the industry’s first anode-less cell design, which delivers high energy density while lowering material costs and simplifying manufacturing. Our innovative battery cell technology can store energy more efficiently and reliably than today’s lithium-ion batteries.

We’re on a mission to electrify cars by building the next generation of energy storage technology! Do you want to make a major contribution to this critical part of the future energy economy? As a member of the metrology team, you will develop metrology tools to connect image data with battery performance. Come join us in a role that sits at the intersection of materials, manufacturing, and machine vision!

What you will do:

• Leverage your knowledge of optical inspection systems to develop and deploy scalable metrology systems.


• Lead junior team members toward successful outcomes on optical inspection projects.


• Manage the complete lifecycle of inspection systems, including negotiating requirements with internal customers, identifying and validating solutions, performing or assisting with installations, establishing calibration and maintenance plans, and leading continuous improvements.


• Collaborate across teams to identify and prioritize requirements for a broad range of projects.


• Find creative ways to rapidly process metrology data at high volume to enable automatic scrapping using in-line metrology sensors.

Minimum requirements:

• B.S. with 10+ years of experience, M.S. with 6+ years of experience, or PhD with 4+ years of experience in a manufacturing setting.


• Hands-on experience developing, validating, and scaling imaging or characterization tools.


• Previous experience with machine vision software (camera control, image processing) and hardware (optical, acoustic, or thermal sensors).


• Strong understanding of measurement systems analysis, statistical process control, and design of experiments.

Highly desired:

• Experience leading engineering teams.


• Experience adapting inspection solutions to automated manufacturing systems and tooling.


• Scientific programming experience in python, including numpy, matplotlib, pandas, cv2, and skimage libraries.

Knowledge, skills & abilities:

• You have a curious, hands-on approach to problem solving.


• You are a strong communicator and love working in a fast-paced, team environment.


• Your project-management skills allow you to independently balance multiple high-impact efforts.


• You’re not shy about asking questions or expressing dissent.


• You share a real passion for our mission.

Compensation& Benefits: Salary range for this role has a mid-point salary of $167,100-205,400, and a salary will be determined by the candidate's experience and educational background. QuantumScape also offers an annual bonus and a generous RSU/Equity package as part of its compensation plan. In addition, we do offer a tremendous benefits plan including employee paid health care, Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP), and other exciting perks.

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.

We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request an accommodation.