Senior Quality Control Technician

Quality Assurance EngineerRigetti Computing is building the world's most powerful computers to help solve humanity's most pressing problems. Our quantum computing technology has the potential to transform nearly every industry over the coming decades. As a public company with deep roots in research and engineering, we are scaling our hardware capabilities and building the systems needed to deliver reliable, high-performance quantum processors.Role OverviewWe are seeking a hands-on Quality Assurance Engineer to build and lead the Quality function at Rigetti. This highly hands-on role will be responsible for establishing a practical, scalable Quality Management System (QMS) while working closely with engineering, supply chain, and manufacturing teams to ensure our hardware meets the extreme standards required for quantum computing.In this role, you will operate at both the strategic and tactical levels:Defining processes and systems from the ground upEngaging directly in inspection, supplier quality, and issue resolutionYou will own incoming quality, non-conformance handling, and corrective action processes, with a strong focus on:High-tolerance machined componentsPCBAsRF/Microwave hardware used in cryogenic environmentsThe ideal candidate thrives in a fast-moving, low-process environment and is comfortable building structure where little exists today.What You'll Be DoingOwn Incoming Quality Control (IQC), including: Direct responsibility for all incoming quality inspection and documentationInspection plans, sampling strategies and acceptance criteriaBuild and implement a right-sized Quality Management System (QMS) aligned with industry best practices, tailored for a fast-paced hardware organizationPerform and oversee inspection of high-precision components: Tight-tolerance machined partsPCBAsRF hardwareEstablish and manage Non-Conformance Reporting (NCR) processes: Documentation and trackingRoot cause analysisResolution and closureLead material review and disposition decisions (use-as-is, rework, scrap) in collaboration with engineering and supply chainDrive Corrective and Preventive Actions (CAPA) with internal teams and external vendorsPartner directly with suppliers to: Resolve quality issuesImprove processes and consistencyConduct audits and follow-upsDefine and track key quality metrics including incoming yield, defect trends, supplier performanceSupport New Product Introduction (NPI) by embedding quality early. Define requirements, establish inspection methods and implement controls before scaleIntroduce lightweight but effective documentation practices, traceability systems and revision controlIdentify and drive continuous improvement initiatives across hardware development and manufacturingWhat You Bring5+ years of experience in Quality Engineering or Quality Management in hardware or advanced manufacturing environmentsStrong experience with precision machined parts, PCBAs, RF hardware (preferred)Demonstrated ability to build or scale quality systems in a startup or low-process environmentDeep understanding of GD&T, tolerance analysis, inspection methodologiesExperience managing supplier quality and driving vendor accountabilityProficiency with root cause analysis tools, including 5 Whys, Fishbone, 8D and related methodologiesAbility to read and interpret engineering drawings, electrical schematics, and technical specificationsStrong organizational and documentation skillsWillingness to be hands-on and operate across both strategy and execution$165,000 - $190,000 a year Base Salary Rigetti complies with all local and state regulations in regards to displaying salary ranges. Final compensation for this role will be determined by various factors such as a candidate's relevant work experience, skills, and geographic location. Rigetti offers a full slate of benefits from competitive salaries, equity, medical, dental and vision for employees as well as a 401(k) plan, a paid parental leave program, rejuvenation days, and a vacation policy that aligns with local regulations and industry standards.Rigetti Computing is a pioneer in full-stack quantum computing. The company has operated quantum computers over the cloud since 2017 and serves global enterprise, government, and research clients through its Rigetti Quantum Cloud Services platform. The company's proprietary quantum-classical infrastructure provides ultra-low latency integration with public and private clouds for high-performance practical quantum computing. Rigetti has developed the industry's first multi-chip quantum processor for scalable quantum computing systems. The company designs and manufactures its chips in-house at Fab-1, the industry's first dedicated and integrated quantum device manufacturing facility. Rigetti was founded in 2013 and today employs more than 150 people with offices in the United States, U.K., and Australia. Learn more at