Senior Quality Engineer — Space Imaging Manufacturing

Planet; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Planet seeks an experienced Quality Engineer for its San Francisco manufacturing facility to implement and maintain QMS, drive process improvements, and mentor technicians. You will work closely with cross‑functional teams to ensure product reliability, lead inspections, and support cost-reduction initiatives.

The role emphasizes hands‑on quality inspection, PFMEA leadership, and real‑time KPI dashboards, with a strong focus on Lean and continuous improvement in a fast‑paced environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a technical discipline is required.
• 6+ years in quality engineering, QA, or manufacturing operations.
• 2+ years hands-on as a quality technician/inspection engineer.
• Experience supporting QMS implementation and audits preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret GD&T on complex drawings.

Responsibilities

• Implement and audit Quality Management Systems (QMS).
• Mentor quality technicians and train on inspection methods.
• Prepare for audits and deliver KPIs to leadership.
• Develop standardized inspection protocols for materials, in-process, and final release.
• Provide hands-on quality support to production to resolve issues.
• Track quality metrics and maintain real-time dashboards for leadership.
• Lead Lean Kaizen events and cross-functional process improvements.
• Lead PFMEA sessions to identify risks and strengthen controls.
• Identify waste and improve process capability (Cpk).
• Perform technical root-cause analyses (8D, 5-Why, Fishbone).
• Handle MRB processes and coordinate with supply chain on SCARs.
• Create and update inspection documentation and SOPs.

Skills

Quality engineering

Lean manufacturing

Root-cause analysis

Process improvement

QMS knowledge

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical/Industrial Engineering

Tools

Calipers

Micrometers

Drop gauges

Height gauges

Dial indicators

CMM/optical comparator

Job description

Planet seeks an experienced Quality Engineer for its San Francisco manufacturing facility to implement and maintain QMS, drive process improvements, and mentor technicians. You will work closely with cross‑functional teams to ensure product reliability, lead inspections, and support cost-reduction initiatives.

The role emphasizes hands‑on quality inspection, PFMEA leadership, and real‑time KPI dashboards, with a strong focus on Lean and continuous improvement in a fast‑paced environment.