QuantumScape is on a mission to transform energy storage with solid-state lithium-metal battery technology. The company’s next-generation batteries are designed to enable greater energy density, faster charging and enhanced safety to support the transition away from legacy energy sources toward a lower carbon future.

About the team: The Manufacturing and Yield team is a hands-on group of engineers and technicians dedicated to optimizing QuantumScape’s production processes. We work at the intersection of research and manufacturing—driving improvements in safety, quality, and throughput as we bring our groundbreaking battery technology from lab to scale. Our team values collaboration, continuous improvement, and operational excellence.

What we need: We’re seeking an experienced Senior Operations Engineer who thrives on solving complex process challenges and leading by example on the production floor. In this role, you will work closely with operators, technicians, and cross-functional engineering teams to develop, optimize, and troubleshoot production processes. You’ll play a key role in ensuring that our operations run safely, efficiently, and at the highest standards of quality and reliability.

If you are a hands-on problem solver who excels in dynamic environments and enjoys driving measurable improvements in manufacturing performance, we’d like to hear from you.

Preferred work schedule: Monday-Friday, 1:00PM-9:30PM (Preferred)

What You’ll do:

• Lead the execution, implementation, and optimization of production processes to improve efficiency, product quality, and throughput.
• Collaborate with cross-functional partners—including process, quality, and development engineers—to diagnose and resolve complex operational issues.
• Supervise and guide technicians and operators to ensure adherence to safety, quality, and production standards.
• Conduct root cause analyses and develop actionable solutions for recurring operational challenges or line excursions.
• Lead process improvement and optimization projects from concept through execution, ensuring timely delivery and measurable impact.
• Implement process controls and ensure all changes follow formal change management procedures.
• Perform data-driven analysis using tools such as SPC and DOE to evaluate performance, monitor trends, and identify improvement opportunities.
• Provide hands-on support to troubleshoot automated and manual equipment on the production floor.
• Champion a culture of continuous improvement, safety, and operational excellence.

Skills You’ll Need:

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Chemistry, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum 3+ years of experience in production, operations, or process engineering, including 2+ years in a leadership or senior technical role.
• Proven ability to manage day-to-day operations, troubleshoot complex technical issues, and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
• Demonstrated success in scaling and optimizing production processes in a fast-paced manufacturing or pilot-scale environment.
• Proficiency in data analysis and statistical tools (e.g., DOE, SPC, FMEA) for process control and optimization.
• Strong understanding of safety and quality standards related to chemicals, powders, and hazardous materials.
• Experience with process control systems, automation tools, or scientific programming (Python, MATLAB, JMP) is a plus.

Nice to have:

• Experience in battery manufacturing or materials processing (e.g., lithium-ion or solid-state technologies).
• Proven track record in implementing lean manufacturing principles or Six Sigma methodologies.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining focus on long-term operational goals.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills to engage effectively with cross-functional teams.

Physical requirements:

• Work is performed in a lab environment, which includes dry rooms and equipment areas.
• May require sitting, standing, bending, and lifting up to 25 lbs.
• Fine motor skills required for equipment operation and component handling.

ONSITE: This position is onsite, 5 days per week, to support production operations and ensure direct engagement with technicians on the floor. In-person collaboration is essential to maintaining safety, alignment, and rapid problem-solving in a dynamic manufacturing environment.

Compensation & Benefits: Expected salary range for this role is from $ 134,800 to $182,00, and a final 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 benefits.

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.