Lead Quality Inspector

RTC Aerospace•Simi Valley, CA

3d•$35 - $40•Onsite

About The Position

The Lead Quality Inspector serves as the technical leader of the inspection team, ensuring the consistent execution of inspection activities while supporting production, engineering, and quality objectives within a precision manufacturing environment. In addition to performing advanced inspections, this role provides day-to-day guidance to Quality Inspectors, coordinates inspection priorities, assists with quality investigations, supports audits, and promotes continuous improvement initiatives. The Lead Quality Inspector acts as a subject matter expert, helping maintain compliance with customer requirements, engineering specifications, AS9100 quality standards, and regulatory requirements while fostering a culture of quality and accountability.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent required.
5+ years of quality inspection experience within aerospace, precision machining, or manufacturing environments.
Demonstrated experience providing technical leadership, mentoring, or coordinating inspection activities.
Advanced ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, specifications, and technical documentation.
Strong working knowledge of AS9100 and/or ISO 9001 quality management systems.
Advanced understanding of ASME Y14.5 Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
Proficiency using precision inspection equipment including micrometers, calipers, bore gauges, height gauges, optical comparators, and related instruments.
Experience completing First Article Inspection Reports (FAIRs) and AS9102 documentation.
Strong understanding of inspection methods, measurement techniques, shop mathematics, and blueprint interpretation.
Ability to review and maintain accurate quality documentation and inspection records.
Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to collaborate across departments.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office and ERP/MRP systems.

Nice To Haves

Experience programming or operating Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMMs) using software such as Calypso, Mitutoyo MCOSMOS, Verisurf, PC-DMIS, or similar.
ASQ Certified Quality Inspector (CQI), Certified Quality Technician (CQT), or other relevant quality certification.
Associate's degree or higher in Quality, Manufacturing, Engineering, or a related technical field.
Experience leading corrective action investigations using root cause analysis methodologies.
Working knowledge of Statistical Process Control (SPC), Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement tools.
Experience supporting customer, internal, or regulatory audits.
Experience reviewing inspection plans, manufacturing documentation, and quality procedures.
Ability to coordinate inspection activities across multiple product lines while maintaining production priorities.

Responsibilities

Perform advanced dimensional and visual inspections of raw materials, in-process components, assemblies, and finished products using precision measurement equipment.
Coordinate daily inspection priorities and workflow to support production schedules and customer delivery requirements.
Provide technical guidance, training, and mentoring to Quality Inspectors and support employee development.
Serve as the primary resource for complex inspection questions, drawing interpretation, GD&T application, and measurement methodology.
Interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, models, specifications, manufacturing plans, and work instructions in accordance with ASME Y14.5 GD&T requirements.
Verify compliance with customer, regulatory, and internal quality requirements, including AS9100, ISO standards, and customer-specific specifications.
Utilize and verify the proper use and calibration status of inspection equipment including micrometers, calipers, bore gauges, height gauges, optical comparators, CMMs, and other precision instruments.
Review and approve inspection documentation, traceability records, FAIR packages, and quality documentation for accuracy and completeness.
Lead or support First Article Inspection (FAI) activities and AS9102 documentation.
Identify, document, and communicate nonconforming material while coordinating containment activities and disposition with Engineering, Manufacturing, and Quality leadership.
Assist in root cause investigations, corrective actions, preventive actions, and continuous improvement initiatives.
Support internal, customer, and regulatory audits by preparing documentation and serving as a technical resource during audit activities.
Monitor inspection processes and recommend improvements that increase quality, efficiency, and consistency.
Ensure inspection staging areas, documentation, and product traceability are maintained throughout the inspection process.
Communicate inspection results, production status, and quality concerns effectively with cross-functional teams.
Promote compliance with company safety policies and maintain a clean and organized work environment.
Performs other duties as assigned.