Inventory & Planning Manager

QuEra is building the future of computation using neutral atom quantum technology. As a fast-moving startup at the bleeding edge of quantum computing, we are translating advanced physics into scalable, manufacturable systems. Our environment is dynamic, collaborative, and mission-driven — where today’s prototype becomes tomorrow’s production platform. This is a unique position

We are seeking a hands-on Inventory & Planning Manager to lead high-tech inventory control and production planning in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. This role will be instrumental in building and scaling the materials infrastructure that supports precision quantum hardware.

The ideal candidate has experience supervising inventory and planning functions in a high-tech manufacturing setting, thrives in ambiguity, and can create structure where processes are still evolving. You will oversee ERP-driven inventory systems with audit responsibilities, shipping and receiving operations, material planning, and process development — all while supporting rapid engineering iteration and changing production demands.

This role requiring both strategic thinking and day-to-day operational execution.

• Supervise and execute inventory control processes for high-value, high-precision components. Reporting requirements to both the Head of Supply chains and Finance/Accounting
• Ensure accurate material transactions in ERP systems (receiving, WIP, transfers, cycle counts, adjustments).
• Develop and maintain inventory accuracy standards, cycle count programs, and traceability controls.
• Partner with Engineering and Manufacturing to manage engineering change orders (ECOs) and material revisions.

• Execute production planning activities in coordination with manufacturing, engineering, and supply chain.
• Translate evolving build plans into actionable material requirements.
• Maintain accurate BOMs, routings, and planning parameters in ERP.
• Identify material shortages and proactively mitigate risk to production schedules.

• Oversee inbound and outbound logistics, ensuring proper documentation, handling, and compliance. International shipping experience and compliance is a plus.
• Establish and refine receiving inspection workflows for sensitive components.
• Manage packaging and shipping for delicate, high-tech assemblies and prototypes.

• Develop scalable processes for inventory management in a rapidly growing organization.
• Implement best practices for material flow, kitting, labeling, storage, and traceability.
• Drive improvements in ERP utilization, data accuracy, and operational metrics.
• Build documentation and SOPs where processes are still emerging.

• 6+ years of experience in high-tech inventory, materials, or production planning within a manufacturing environment. 2+ years of experience in a part planning role.
• Hands-on experience with ERP systems ( Microsoft Dynamics experience a plus)
• Understanding of BOM structures, material requirements planning (MRP), and production workflows.
• Experience managing shipping and receiving high-value or sensitive equipment.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and implement new processes in a scaling organization.
• High attention to detail and strong organizational skills.

• Experience in hardware startups, advanced manufacturing, semiconductors, aerospace, photonics, or precision instrumentation.
• Familiarity with regulated, export-controlled, or high-security environments.
• Experience supporting R&D-driven production where designs evolve rapidly.
• Lean manufacturing or continuous improvement training.

• You are comfortable working with incomplete information and shifting priorities.
• You bring structure without creating bureaucracy.
• You are equally comfortable executing physical tasks and in ERP systems.
• You anticipate problems before they impact production.
• You thrive in environments where daily requirements are not fully defined.
• You balance precision and agility.