Head of Manufacturing (f/m/d)

Description:
As Head of Manufacturing, you will own and scale our end-to-end manufacturing function - from defining processes and qualifying suppliers to delivering precision instruments to the world's most demanding semiconductor customers. You'll work at the intersection of engineering and operations, initially hands-on in building the foundation and, over time, growing and leading a manufacturing team.

This is a rare opportunity to shape the production backbone of a deep-tech company at an inflection point: our first commercial product is shipping, and the roadmap ahead is ambitious.

Who we are:
Founded in 2022 as a spin-off of TU Munich, QD leverages quantum sensors to rapidly capture three-dimensional current maps within multi-layer chips. Our strong team of over 50 physicists, engineers, and data scientists works side by side with major semiconductor manufacturers, helping them in chip debugging and accelerating their yield analysis. Backed by top-tier deep tech investors, semiconductor experts, and strategic public programs, we have ensured long-term stability, shifting from breakthrough to scale - and shaping the next chapter in chip testing.

Why join us?:
Picture this:
• A machine that catches what others miss – in milliseconds.
• Physics, data, and engineering are working hand in hand to build tools that matter.
• An international team, who loves solving hard problems and where knowledge flows fast.

Still unsure about why joining us?
• You'll get to build a company together with a brilliant and welcoming team on a product that has never been done before.
• Our technology is the cutting edge of tomorrow, starting today and not in 10 years.
• You will work directly with major semiconductor companies from Day 1.
• You'll get virtual shares and act on behalf of the entire company, beyond just your own team.
• You’ll be part of a high-growth company backed by top-tier investors.

Let’s make the invisible visible!

What will you do:
• Own the full manufacturing process for the QD m.1 and subsequent product generations — from production planning and supplier selection to final assembly, test, and delivery
• Define and implement scalable manufacturing processes, quality standards, and documentation (work instructions, BOMs, travellers) suited to small-series precision instrument production
• Lead and develop the relationship with our key manufacturing partners and other external suppliers; qualify new vendors as the product suite expands
• Establish and enforce quality assurance processes appropriate for micrometre-level tolerances – ensuring every instrument shipped meets spec
• Collaborate closely with the engineering team to ensure designs are optimised for manufacturability (DFM/DFA), and translate product changes into updated production processes
• Drive supply chain and procurement decisions: lead times, inventory strategy, cost targets, and risk mitigation
• Build out production planning and capacity management as volumes scale from tens to hundreds of units per year
• Recruit and grow a manufacturing team over time

What is expected of you:
• 7+ years of experience in manufacturing or production engineering for precision instruments — e.g. microscopy systems, X-ray equipment, high-end optics, metrology tools, or comparable complex electro-mechanical systems
• Demonstrated experience setting up or scaling small-series precision production — you've built processes from scratch, not just inherited them
• Deep familiarity with micrometre-level tolerances and the quality mindset that goes with them (GD&T, SPC, FMEA, or equivalent)
• Strong interface skills: you can speak the language of both R&D engineers and supply chain/operations professionals
• Experience managing external manufacturing partners and suppliers — contract negotiation, qualification, and ongoing performance management
• Comfortable being hands-on in an early-stage environment — defining things that don't yet exist, while staying pragmatic and delivery-focused
• Excellent communication skills: able to align suppliers, internal teams, and leadership around clear operational plans

(Nice to have)
• Experience in a scale-up or Series A/B environment
• Background in semiconductor capital equipment or lab automation
• Familiarity with ISO 9001 or similar quality management systems
• Experience building and leading a small manufacturing or operations team

Our benefits:
• Mission: At QD, we’re driven by more than just building great products – we aim to make a lasting difference. Joining us means contributing to meaningful work that goes beyond business as usual.
• Impact & growth: This is an exciting stage of our journey, and your voice matters. You’ll have the chance to shape our culture, influence key decisions, and grow alongside a company that’s scaling fast.
• Health & fitness: With a company-sponsored Wellpass membership, you’ll have access to countless gyms, classes, and wellness offers across Germany to stay healthy and active.
• Team & culture: We believe the best ideas come when we connect outside the office. From regular off-sites to team events, you’ll be part of a collaborative and supportive environment.
• Well-being & balance: We value rest and recovery. That’s why you’ll enjoy 30 vacation days plus public holidays to recharge and return inspired.
• Learning & development: Your growth is our priority. We provide an annual budget dedicated to courses, conferences, or any resources that help you expand your skills.
• Ownership & participation: As part of our equity program, you’ll directly share in our success and the value we create together.