Quality Planning and FAIR Specialist

Skookum•Kent, WA

43d•$28 - $36•Onsite

About The Position

Tessera is seeking a new Quality Planning and FAIR Specialist to join our growing Aerospace Manufacturing team in Auburn, Washington. The Quality Planning & FAIR Specialist is responsible for ensuring that all products are quality-ready prior to release to production. This role leads First Article Inspection Report (FAIR) preparation and execution (AS9102) while owning key front-end Quality Assurance activities, including inspection planning, drawing ballooning, and requirement validation. They serve as a critical link between Quality Engineering, Planning, and Production, and ensures that all customer requirements are clearly defined, traceable, and executable. The role is focused on preventing quality issues before they occur, reducing downstream rework, inspection inefficiencies, and production delays.

Requirements

High School Diploma/GED is required
3 – 5 years of previous experience in Aerospace, Precision Manufacturing Quality, or with FAIR and ballooning tools is required.
Combination of previous experience and education will be considered.
Must have strong knowledge of AS9100 Quality Management Systems, AS9102 First Article Inspection Requirements, and GD & T (ASME Y14.5).
Must be able to read and interpret complex engineering drawings and specifications.
Must be familiar with CNC machining, fabrication, and/or assembly processes.
A valid state driver’s license is preferred with the ability to obtain and maintain coverage by Tessera’s insurance.
Access to a federal military installation requires a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or an acceptable alternative, such as a U.S. passport or military ID, in accordance with the REAL ID Act.
Must be able to obtain and maintain applicable security clearances and installation access.
A background check and E-Verify will be conducted for this position.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience supporting new product introduction or planning validation, knowledge of special processes and aerospace specifications, and experience working in a cross-functional manufacturing environment is preferred.

Responsibilities

Lead end-to-end preparation and completion of FAIRs in compliance with AS9102
Create and maintain ballooned drawings, FAIR Forms 1, 2, and 3, and supporting objective evidence
Coordinate with cross-functional teams to ensure all characteristics are captured and verified
Manage delta FAIRs and updates for repeat or revised jobs
Ensure timely and accurate submission of FAIR packages to customers
Define and document inspection requirements aligned to the manufacturing router
Determine appropriate inspection methods (CMM, manual, in-process verification)
Ensure inspection steps are properly sequenced with production operations
Identify required gages and inspection tools prior to job release
Eliminate redundant effort, prevent missed requirements, and streamline inspection execution
Own the creation and standardization of ballooned drawings
Ensure all drawing requirements are clearly identified, linked to specific operations, and tied to inspection methods and FAIR documentation
Maintain consistency across new and repeat jobs
Establish a clean, consistent “digital thread” from drawing → planning → inspection → FAIR
Participate in contract review and new job kickoff to validate quality requirements and flow downs
Review routers and planning outputs to ensure all drawing and specification requirements are captured, critical features are properly identified, and inspection steps are complete and executable
Identify and escalate gaps or risks prior to release to production
Define First Piece Inspection (FPI) requirements during planning
Ensure readiness of inspection methods, gages and tools, and supporting documentation
Support initial validation of first-run parts on critical or complex jobs
Review and validate requirements for special processes (e.g., anodize, paint, NDT)
Ensure proper flow down of specifications to suppliers and internal teams
Confirm certification and traceability requirements are defined upfront
Support and maintain FAIR and inspection-related tools (e.g., ballooning software, FAIR systems)
Develop and maintain standard work, templates, and best practices
Ensure documentation is audit-ready and compliant with AS9100 and customer requirements
Act as a liaison between Quality Engineering, Planning, and Production (Machining, Fabrication, Assembly)
Communicate quality requirements clearly to stakeholders
Support alignment between design intent and manufacturing execution
All Other Duties as Assigned.

Benefits

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life & Short-Term Disability Insurance
Elective 401(k) retirement plan, Tessera will match 0.5% for every 1% up to 6% after 90-days of employment. Funds are subject to vesting.
Flexible Spending Accounts for both medical and dependent care
11 paid holidays, accrual of 10 paid days of vacation at the start of employment, paid sick leave
Potential shared earning bonus
Tuition assistance is available after 1 year of employment and potential scholarships for qualified dependents
Professional development, certifications, and training opportunities
Verizon wireless discount
Employee Assistance Program (EAP), and an engaging wellness program
Public Service Loan Forgiveness eligibility for full-time employees