Staff Control Engineer

QuantumScape Corporation•San Jose, CA

2d•$136,700 - $208,500•Onsite

About The Position

QuantumScape is seeking a Staff-level Engineer with 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. The separator enables QuantumScape's anode-free lithium-metal architecture and high-energy-density cells. The role works across R&D, prototyping, and production environments to advance cell manufacturing processes in a collaborative setting. The engineer provides technical leadership from concept through commissioning, developing and integrating PLCs, HMIs, machine vision, and advanced control systems. The role collaborates with mechanical design, assembly, external engineering teams, suppliers, and vendors to deliver reliable, safe, and high-performing manufacturing systems. It also leads system installation, commissioning, quality assurance, and continuous improvement. This position is onsite five days per week. Work is performed in dry room, fume hood, lab, or glovebox environments and involves fine motor skills, extended sitting or standing, reaching and twisting motions, and lifting up to 25 pounds. The expected salary range is $136,700 to $208,500. QuantumScape also offers an annual bonus, an RSU/equity package, employee-paid health care, an Employee Stock Purchase Plan, and other benefits.

Requirements

BS degree or higher in Electrical Engineering, Automation Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, or a related technical field.
At least 10 years of hands-on experience designing, developing, and integrating manufacturing automation systems in R&D, prototyping, and production environments.
Advanced PLC programming proficiency, including deep expertise in Allen-Bradley Studio 5000, Siemens TIA Portal, and other automation platforms.
Expertise with industrial HMI and controls software platforms, including configuration, monitoring, and integration with production systems.
In-depth knowledge of motion control systems, industrial communication protocols, and safety standards, with experience applying them in manufacturing environments.
Proven experience with Ignition systems, including configuration, monitoring, and integration with production systems.
Track record of 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.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of machine vision systems, such as Cognex and Keyence, and their application in advanced automation.
Experience with six-axis robotics and integration into automation systems; FANUC is preferred and KUKA is a secondary preference.
Strong experience with SolidWorks for electrical and mechanical design, including creating detailed schematics, bills of materials, and interlock systems.

Responsibilities

Lead the design and development of complex automation systems, including PLCs, HMIs, machine vision, and advanced control systems.
Provide technical leadership to cross-functional teams and guide engineers through the project lifecycle from concept through commissioning.
Develop and review electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, control enclosure layouts, and interlock schematics using CAD software.
Program and debug control systems to ensure reliability, scalability, and optimized performance.
Conduct risk assessments and ensure compliance with SEMI, NFPA 79, UL, and local safety regulations.
Validate and test safety circuits, I/O systems, and industrial communication interfaces, including Ethernet/IP, Profinet, and OPC UA.
Develop equipment specifications and lead quality assurance throughout design and implementation.
Collaborate with mechanical design engineers, assembly teams, and external engineering teams to ensure cross-disciplinary alignment and system performance.
Lead system installation, commissioning, and continuous improvement in manufacturing environments, with a focus on availability and minimal downtime.
Coordinate with suppliers and external vendors to source automation equipment, components, and systems and ensure specifications, timelines, and quality standards are met.
Manage supplier relationships, lead technical discussions, and resolve procurement, testing, and integration issues.
Support evaluation of new technologies and suppliers to improve automation capabilities and maintain manufacturing competitiveness.