Principal Hardware Engineer

QuantumScape Corporation•San Jose, CA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

QuantumScape is seeking a hands-on Principal Hardware Engineer to serve as the senior mechanical authority for our systems team. In this role, you will lead the design and execution of prototype battery packs, custom charging hardware, and specialized lab tooling and fixtures. We are looking for a seasoned and versatile mechanical leader to lead efforts on prototype pack, charger, and tool design. You’ll lead a small team (engineers and technicians), serve as the technical authority on pack design & validation, and drive cross-functional collaboration to meet schedule, performance, safety, and quality targets.

Requirements

Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
10+ years of industrial experience in hardware development, with a proven track record of taking complex electromechanical products from concept to functional prototype.
Expert-level proficiency in CAD (SolidWorks preferred) and a deep understanding of manufacturing processes (CNC, injection molding, sheet metal, 3D printing).
Experience working with high-power electronics, thermal management systems, or high-voltage hardware is highly preferred.
Strong hands-on skills with standard shop tools, DMMs, and basic data acquisition hardware.
Experience leading small technical teams or acting as a lead on complex, multi-disciplinary projects.
Superb interpersonal and organizational skills with a desire to work in a fast-paced, constantly evolving R&D environment.

Nice To Haves

Experience with thermal simulation tools (ANSYS Icepak, COMSOL, or 6SigmaET).
Familiarity with battery-specific challenges (thermal runaway, cell swelling, or BMS integration).
Knowledge of environmental testing standards (IP ratings, HALT/HASS, vibration/shock).
Experience with Altium/KiCad for basic PCB/layout collaboration.

Responsibilities

Own the mechanical architecture for next-generation prototype packs and custom charger solutions. Translate electro-mechanical constraints into robust module layouts, interconnect schemes, and thermal management solutions.
Act as the team’s senior mechanical expert, providing design reviews, mentorship, and developing custom jigs, fixtures, and lab equipment to accelerate R&D cycles.
Lead the build of first-of-their-kind systems in the in-house lab, including tab/laser welding, bus-bar machining, harness fabrication, potting, and sealing.
Collaborate with electrical engineers to integrate BMS hardware, high-current connectors, and sensors, ensuring mechanical and electrical components function safely in high-voltage environments.
Oversee performance, safety, and environmental tests. Analyze mechanical and thermal data to guide design iterations and improve system reliability.
Collaborate with Cell, Product, and Safety teams; author build documentation and BoMs; and mentor junior engineers and technicians to raise the team's overall mechanical standard.