Title:  Prototype Machinist

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 QS: QuantumScape (NYSE: QS) is on a mission to revolutionize energy storage to enable a sustainable future. The company’s next-generation solid-state lithium-metal battery technology is 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.

What we need: We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Prototype Machinist to support the precision fabrication and processing of components used in the production of lithium-ion and next-generation battery cells. This role is critical to ensuring high-quality, high-yield production through expert operation of machining tools, adherence to specifications, and collaboration with engineering and quality teams.

What You’ll do:

• Operate and manage the on-site machine shop.
• Operate and maintain CNC machines, manual mills, lathes, band saws, drill presses, grinders, and other precision tools for component fabrication.
• Interpret technical drawings and specifications to ensure accurate machining of battery and machine components.
• Perform in-process inspections and measurements to ensure dimensional accuracy and surface quality.
• Support root cause analysis and implement corrective actions for yield and quality issues with production equipment.
• Maintain cleanroom and safety protocols during handling of sensitive materials.
• Document machining processes, tool setups, and maintenance logs in compliance with quality systems.
• Assist in prototyping and scale-up of new cell designs and formats.
• Maintain equipment throughout the machine shop and ensure adherence to 6S and industrial safety standards.
• Train selected team members on small tool usage and fabrication best practices.

Skills you need:

• High school diploma or equivalent; technical certification or associate degree in machining, manufacturing technology, or related field preferred.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in precision machining, preferably in battery, semiconductor, or aerospace industries.
• Proficiency in CNC programming and operation, metrology tools, and mechanical troubleshooting.
• Experience with CAM software and equipment programming.
• Knowledge of cutting tools, lathes, milling machines, and material properties.
• Familiarity with battery materials (e.g., copper, aluminum, separator films) and cleanroom practices.
• Strong attention to detail, safety mindset, and ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
• Demonstrated oral and written communication skills.
• Professional knowledge of safety protocols.

Nice to have:

• Experience with laser welding, ultrasonic cutting, or roll-to-roll processing.
• Knowledge of SPC, lean manufacturing, and Six Sigma principles.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and GD&T standards.
• Comfortable working with cross-functional teams including engineering, quality, and R&D.

ONSITE: This position requires you 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: Hourly rate for this role will range from $36.01 to $54.04, and a rate will be determined by the candidate's experience and educational background. QuantumScape also offers an annual bonus this role would qualify for. In addition, we do offer a tremendous benefits plan including employee paid health care, Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP), and other exciting perks.

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.