Quality Engineer II
Quantum Space is redefining mobility and autonomy beyond Earth orbit. Our Ranger spacecraft deliver high delta-V and sustained on-orbit maneuverability, enabling missions across cislunar and geostationary space that were previously out of reach. We are building the vehicles, infrastructure, and operational expertise that connect and protect assets across the Earth–Moon system.Who We’re Looking ForWe are seeking a Quality Engineer II to support hardware build, integration, and test operations across our spacecraft programs. This role is critical to ensuring mission success by driving product quality, process discipline, and continuous improvement throughout Integration & Test (I&T).This is a hands-on role for someone who thrives in fast-paced hardware environments and can work cross-functionally with engineering, manufacturing, and test teams to identify issues, drive root cause, and implement lasting solutions. You will play a key role in maintaining high-reliability standards across all phases of vehicle assembly and verification.This is an on-site position in our Rockville, MD office.Where You’ll Make an ImpactDevelop, implement, and maintain quality control procedures, including in-process inspection plans to ensure stable and capable I&T processesInterpret engineering drawings, specifications, tolerances, BOMs, and work orders to verify product conformityLead investigations into quality escapes and nonconformances using structured root cause methodologies (8D, 5 Whys, Fishbone)Apply industry-standard quality tools and methodologies, including RCCA, SPC, and FMEADrive corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) to eliminate recurrence and improve overall product and process qualitySupport continuous improvement initiatives through quality tools and error-proofing techniquesPerform, witness, and monitor incoming, in-process, and acceptance inspections and tests across hardware build and pre-launch activitiesVerify compliance with procedures governing contamination control, cleanroom operations, lifting and handling, hazardous operations, and ESD controlEnsure all work is executed against the latest approved drawings and proceduresEnsure measurement and test equipment remains within calibration and compliant with program requirementsSupport internal and external audits, including customer and agency reviewsWhat It Takes3–5 years of directly related quality or engineering experience, preferably in aerospace, spacecraft, or other high-reliability hardware environmentsStrong ability to interpret engineering documentation and verify hardware against requirementsExperience leading root cause investigations and driving RCCA/CAPA to closureHands-on experience supporting hardware integration and test environmentsFamiliarity with environmental testing (thermal, vibration, EMI/EMC)Ability to obtain and maintain NASA and IPC workmanship certifications (J-STD-001, NASA-STD-8739 series); current certifications strongly preferredStrong problem-solving skills and ability to operate effectively in cross-disciplinary teamsHigh attention to detail with a focus on process discipline and executionNice-to-Have ExperienceCurrent NASA or IPC certifications (J-STD-001, NASA-STD-8739.4, NASA-STD-8739.1)Experience in cleanroom environments and contamination-controlled processesBackground supporting spacecraft or flight hardware programsFamiliarity with metrology systems, calibration programs, and inspection toolingExperience supporting customer or government auditsWhat You’ll GetOwnership – Direct impact on spacecraft quality and mission successExposure – Work closely with engineering, manufacturing, and test teams across the full vehicle lifecycleGrowth – Opportunity to develop deep expertise in spacecraft integration and high-reliability systemsCompensation – Competitive salary, equity, and comprehensive benefitsAdditional RequirementsTo comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including ITAR, applicants must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, protected individual per 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain required authorizations.