Quality Inspector - FAI

Astronics Corporation•Waukegan, IL

21d•$22 - $25

About The Position

The Quality Inspector is responsible for ensuring compliance with company and customer inspection criteria in accordance with AS9102 First Article Inspection (FAI). The role supports the Quality Management System and adherence to engineering requirements across the supply chain, particularly during new-product introductions, introduction of new parts, and changes to existing products or parts. The inspector measures and verifies first articles, prepares reports and supporting documentation, communicates results to requestors, provides guidance on customer, blueprint, and certificate-of-conformance requirements, and escalates discrepancies identified during inspection. The position also supports inspection activities across the manufacturing site. This includes reviewing documentation associated with received parts, performing in-process and final inspections, checking electrical test setups or results, preparing inspection reports and product labels, and using inspection, measurement, and test equipment to verify product conformance. The inspector follows quality, customer-specific, safety, ethical, and legal requirements and recommends opportunities for improvement. The base salary range is $22.00–$25.00 per hour, with eligibility for a quarterly incentive compensation bonus. A comprehensive benefits package is available to full-time employees; part-time employees may be eligible on a prorated basis. Employment may involve access to items subject to U.S. export-control laws and is contingent on authorization to access those items when required.

Requirements

At least 1–2 years of experience in a manufacturing environment.
Ability to read and understand process documents and industry standards.
Team-oriented, with good written and oral communication skills in English.
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
Ability to shift, assess, and manage priorities as needed.
Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
Basic math skills, including fractions, decimals, and basic statistical techniques.
Basic computer skills.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Knowledge of mechanical, electrical, and cable-and-wire drawings.

Nice To Haves

Ability to read blueprints and drawings, including GD&T.
Experience preparing First Article Inspection Reports (FAIRs).
Experience with FAI software such as Discus.
Knowledge of certificates of compliance and material certifications.
Experience using basic inspection and test equipment, such as a ruler, caliper, and meter.
Working knowledge of ISO 9001, ISO 14000, ISO 13485, and AS9100 processes.
Experience in a lean manufacturing facility or continuous-improvement environment.

Responsibilities

Measure parts according to drawings, prints, or applicable specifications.
Complete applicable forms and templates with inspection results.
Gather documentation serving as evidence of First Article Inspection (FAI).
Create FAI packages communicating results to involved parties.
Communicate work through applicable channels, including customer websites, network folders, and email.
Communicate discrepancies and escalate them through applicable channels and contacts.
Support inspection processes across the manufacturing site and designated area.
Inspect and verify documentation associated with received parts, including certificates of compliance, material certificates, drawings, and test reports.
Perform in-process inspections to confirm production follows work instructions and blueprints.
Verify electrical test setups and/or final test results to ensure testing is performed correctly for each job.
Perform designated final inspections and verify compliance with certificates of compliance and required customer documentation.
Complete and deliver inspection reports as required.
Perform other designated inspection activities needed to meet established requirements.
Use inspection, measurement, and test equipment to verify products meet specifications.
Follow communication and escalation processes for quality, manufacturing, supplier, and other issues arising during the shift.
Create, verify, inspect, and deliver required product and part labels to manufacturing.
Follow and ensure compliance with Quality Management System and customer-specific requirements for products within the assigned area.
Follow and ensure compliance with organizational safety protocols and procedures.
Implement and comply with ethical and legal requirements.
Recommend opportunities for improvement to promote better practices and high-quality outcomes.
Perform other duties or functions assigned by a supervisor or lead.

Benefits

Quarterly incentive compensation bonus.
Health, dental, and vision insurance.
Disability and life insurance.
Flexible spending account (FSA) and health savings account (HSA).
Voluntary life/AD&D, critical illness, accident prevention, and hospital indemnity coverage.
401(k) plan with a company contribution of 3% of eligible wages and the possibility of an annual discretionary additional contribution.
Profit sharing.
Employee stock purchase plan.
Employee Assistance Program.
Wellness Program.
Paid time off.
Volunteer Time Off program.
Paid holidays.
Paid parental leave.
Tuition reimbursement.