What we need: Team is seeking a highly skilled Staff level Engineer with extensive technical expertise and at least 10 years of experience to lead the design, development, and integration of advanced automation systems for ultra-thin, heat-resistant ceramic separator design that enables QuantumScape's anode-free lithium-metal architecture and high-energy-density cells. This role offers an exciting opportunity to work with cutting-edge technologies in a dynamic and collaborative environment, driving innovation and operational excellence in cell manufacturing processes.
What You'll do:• Lead the design and development of complex systems, including PLCs, HMIs, machine vision, and advanced control systems.
• Provide technical leadership to cross-functional teams, guiding engineers through the entire project lifecycle from concept through commissioning.
• Develop and review electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, control enclosure layouts, and interlock schematics using advanced CAD software.
• Program and debug complex control systems, ensuring reliability, scalability, and performance optimization.
• Conduct thorough risk assessments, ensuring compliance with industry standards such as SEMI, NFPA 79, UL, and local safety regulations.
• Validate and test safety circuits, I/O systems, and industrial communication interfaces (Ethernet/IP, Profinet, OPCUA) to ensure compliance with stringent safety and performance criteria.
• Develop detailed equipment specifications and lead quality assurance efforts throughout the design and implementation phases.
• Collaborate with mechanical design engineers, assembly teams, and external engineering teams to ensure cross-disciplinary alignment and optimal system performance.
• Lead the installation, commissioning, and continuous improvement of systems in manufacturing environments, ensuring high availability and minimal downtime.
• Communicate effectively with suppliers and external vendors to source automation equipment, components, and systems, ensuring that specifications, timelines, and quality standards are met.
• Manage supplier relationships, driving technical discussions and resolving any issues that may arise during procurement, testing, and integration stages.
• Support the evaluation of new technologies and suppliers to enhance automation capabilities and maintain competitiveness in the manufacturing environment.
Skills You'll Need:• A BS or higher degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, or a related technical field.
• At least 10 years of hands-on experience in designing, developing, and integrating automation systems for manufacturing, including R&D, prototyping, and production environments.
• Advanced proficiency in PLC programming, with deep expertise in Allen-Bradley (Studio 5000), Siemens (TIA Portal), and other automation platforms.
• Expertise in industrial HMI / controls software platform systems (Ignition, etc.), including configuration, monitoring, and integration with production systems.
In-depth knowledge of motion control systems, industrial communication protocols, and safety standards, with proven experience in applying these to manufacturing environments.
• Expertise in Ignition systems, including configuration, monitoring, and integration with production systems.
• Proven track record in leading complex projects, mentoring junior engineers, and driving continuous improvement in automation systems.
• Strong problem-solving, troubleshooting, and system optimization skills with a collaborative and leadership-oriented mindset.
• Excellent communication skills for coordinating with internal teams, suppliers, and external vendors to ensure timely delivery of high-quality components and systems.
Nice to have: - Knowledge with machine vision systems (Cognex, Keyence) and their application in advanced automation.
- Experience with 6-axis robotics (FANUC preferred, KUKA secondary) and their integration into automation systems.
- Strong experience with CAD software (SolidWorks) for electrical and mechanical design, with the ability to create detailed schematics, BOMs, and interlock systems.
Physical requirements: - Work is performed in a dry room, fume hood, lab area, or glovebox requiring the use of fine motor skills
- Sitting or standing for extended periods of time
- Reaching and twisting motions with hands
- Lifting up to 25 lbs.
ONSITE: This position is required to work onsite 5 days per week to meet the minimum essential duties and requirements of this position. As an on-site R&D and manufacturing operations organization, in-person face to face interaction is essential to building authentic relationships, trust, teamwork, and collaboration.
Compensation & Benefits: Expected salary range for this role is from $136,700 to $208,500 and a final salary will be determined by the candidate's experience, educational background and internal equity. 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.
