Quality Systems Engineer — Lean Manufacturing & Audits

Planet Labs PBC; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Planet Labs PBC in San Francisco is seeking an experienced Quality Engineer to support our manufacturing facility. You will implement QMS, drive process improvement, and partner with the Quality Engineer Lead to elevate product reliability across operations.

You will mentor technicians, work with design, manufacturing, test and supply chain teams, perform root-cause analysis, lead PFMEA sessions, and help prepare for audits to deliver KPIs and solid quality data.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• 6+ years of experience in quality engineering, quality assurance, or manufacturing operations.
• 2+ years hands-on experience as a quality technician or inspection engineer.
• Ability to support Quality Leads/Managers in managing quality workflows, technician activities, and QMS initiatives.
• Working knowledge of ISO 9001, AS9100, or similar quality management systems (implementation and audit support preferred).
• Exceptional ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings and Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T).
• Proficiency with precision tools including calipers, micrometers, drop gauges, height gauges, dial indicators, and CMM/optical comparator tools.
• Deep expertise in Lean Manufacturing principles, 5S, root‑cause methodologies, and continuous improvement tools.
• Familiarity with Cal/OSHA health and safety regulations within manufacturing settings.
• Proficient in Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets), Microsoft Office, ERP/QMS platforms, and technical documentation tools.

Responsibilities

• Implement Quality Management Systems (QMS) with the Quality Engineer Lead to maintain, audit, and improve the system.
• Guide, train, and mentor quality technicians on inspection techniques, blueprints, and SOPs.
• Prepare for audits and deliver KPIs; compile quality metrics and present monthly management reviews.
• Develop standardized inspection protocols for incoming materials, in‑process testing, and final release criteria.
• Provide hands‑on quality engineering support to production to resolve line‑side non‑conformances.
• Monitor quality metrics and dashboards for leadership visibility (yield, scrap, COPQ).
• Lead Lean Kaizen events and cross‑functional feedback loops to optimize processes.
• Lead PFMEA sessions with engineering to identify risks and strengthen controls.
• Reduce waste and improve process capability (Cpk).
• Perform technical root‑cause analyses (8D, 5‑Why, Fishbone) for supplier and in‑line failures.
• Execute MRB processes and coordinate with supply chain on SCARs.
• Author, review, and update inspection guides, SOPs, and quality control plans.

Skills

Lean Manufacturing

Root-cause analysis

Cross-functional collaboration

Quality system knowledge

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

CMM/optical comparator tools

Calipers

Micrometers

Height gauges

Dial indicators

Job description

Planet Labs PBC in San Francisco is seeking an experienced Quality Engineer to support our manufacturing facility. You will implement QMS, drive process improvement, and partner with the Quality Engineer Lead to elevate product reliability across operations.

You will mentor technicians, work with design, manufacturing, test and supply chain teams, perform root-cause analysis, lead PFMEA sessions, and help prepare for audits to deliver KPIs and solid quality data.