Quality Control Technician

Job Description

Job Title: Quality Control Technician. Location: Berkeley, California, USA

Responsibilities:

• Perform daily Incoming Quality Control (IQC) inspections using defined inspection plans, sampling procedures, and acceptance criteria.
• Measure and document inspection results using CMM, calipers, micrometers, optical comparators, and other precision measurement tools.
• Identify discrepancies and escalate quality issues when necessary.
• Inspect high-precision hardware including tight-tolerance machined parts, PCBAs, and RF/microwave components.
• Create and manage Non-Conformance Reports (NCRs), including documenting findings and supporting root cause investigations.
• Track non-conformances through resolution and closure;
• Support Material Review Board (MRB) activities by gathering inspection data and recommending dispositions such as use-as-is, rework, or scrap for engineering and supply chain approval.
• Support Corrective and Preventive Action (CAPA) activities, including verifying implementation and effectiveness.
• Maintain accurate inspection records and traceability documentation.
• Support supplier quality issues by preparing data packages, measurement evidence, and inspection reports.
• Track incoming yield, defect trends, and other quality metrics.
• Support New Product Introduction (NPI) through first-article inspections and validation of new inspection methods.
• Identify opportunities to improve inspection efficiency, tooling, and documentation.
• Work with Arena, CAD drawings, Excel, and internal databases.

Qualifications:

• 3+ years of experience in quality control, inspection, or metrology within hardware or advanced manufacturing environments.
• Hands-on experience with precision measurement equipment including CMMs, calipers, micrometers, and optical comparators.
• Working knowledge of precision machined parts, PCBAs, and/or RF hardware;
• Strong understanding of GD&T and the ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and technical specifications.
• Familiarity with NCR and MRB processes and basic root cause analysis methods such as 5 Whys and Fishbone.
• Strong attention to detail and disciplined documentation practices.
• Ability to work independently at the bench while collaborating with engineering on disposition decisions.
• Willingness to develop broader quality responsibilities over time.

Preferred:

• Machinist experience, including CNC machining, tolerancing, or shop floor experience.
• Experience inspecting RF/microwave components or hardware used in cryogenic or vacuum environments.
• Familiarity with PCBA inspection standards such as IPC-A-610.
• Working knowledge of ANSI/ASQ or ISO 9001 quality systems.
• Experience with CMMs or other advanced metrology equipment;
• Experience with ERP/QMS software such as NetSuite, Arena, or MasterControl.
• Experience in startup, R&D, or low-volume/high-mix manufacturing environments.
• Previous experience in aerospace, semiconductor, or scientific instrumentation industries where tight tolerances and traceability are important.

Benefits and Compensation:

• $40 to $75 per hour.
• Hybrid work arrangement.
• Opportunity to work on hardware used in full-stack quantum computing systems.
• Work with engineering and manufacturing teams on precision quantum hardware.

Other Information:

• The role supports hardware programs involving components used in cryogenic environments.
• Employment is subject to applicable export licensing compliance requirements.
• The company is an equal opportunity employer.
• AI tools may be used during parts of the hiring process, including application and resume review, but final hiring decisions are made by humans.