Quality Control Technician

Job Description

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

Responsibilities:

• Perform daily Incoming Quality Control (IQC) inspections according to defined inspection plans, sampling requirements, and acceptance criteria.
• Measure and document inspection results using CMMs, calipers, micrometers, optical comparators, and other precision measurement tools.
• Inspect high-precision hardware, including tight-tolerance machined parts, PCBAs, and RF/microwave assemblies.
• Identify discrepancies and escalate quality issues when required.
• Create and maintain Non-Conformance Reports (NCRs) with clear and thorough documentation;
• Support root cause investigations and 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.
• Assist with Corrective and Preventive Action (CAPA) activities, including verifying implementation and effectiveness.
• Maintain accurate inspection records and traceability documentation.
• Support supplier quality issues by preparing measurement evidence, data packages, 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.
• Apply inspection plans and acceptance criteria within Rigetti's Quality Management System (QMS).
• Collaborate with engineering, quality, and supply chain teams to resolve nonconforming parts and improve hardware quality.

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;
• Basic knowledge of root cause analysis methods such as 5 Whys and Fishbone.
• Strong attention to detail and documentation skills.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating closely with engineering teams.
• Willingness to develop broader quality responsibilities over time.

Preferred:

• Machinist background, 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 and IPC-A-610 or similar standards.
• Working knowledge of ANSI/ASQ or ISO 9001 quality systems.
• Experience with CMMs or other advanced metrology equipment;
• Experience with ERP or QMS software such as NetSuite, Arena, or MasterControl.
• Experience in a startup, R&D, or low-volume/high-mix manufacturing environment.
• Experience in aerospace, semiconductor, or scientific instrumentation industries where tight tolerances and traceability are important.

Benefits and Compensation:

• Compensation: $40 to $75 per hour.
• Hybrid work arrangement.
• Opportunity to work on hardware programs supporting superconducting quantum computing systems.
• Work alongside engineering and manufacturing teams on precision hardware and advanced manufacturing processes.

Other Information:

• Rigetti Computing develops full-stack quantum computing systems and manufactures quantum processor hardware in-house at its Fab-1 facility.
• The role supports hardware programs involving components such as precision-machined parts, PCBAs, and RF/microwave assemblies used in cryogenic environments.
• Rigetti is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to an inclusive workplace.
• Rigetti may use AI tools during parts of its hiring process, while final hiring decisions are made by humans.