Aerospace Quality Inspector—Fixtures/Tooling/Assemblies

Quality Engineering Services (QES) is a privately owned aerospace manufacturer that specializes in tooling and fixturing to support the production of aerospace components. QES has been in business for over 50 years, we make tooling/fixturing/ground support tools for major Aerospace/Defense contractors. While working here you will enjoy a small company feel, great project variety, and work alongside experienced professionals.

Position Summary

We are seeking a detail-oriented Aerospace Quality Inspector to perform first-piece, in-process, and final inspection of precision fixtures, tooling, subassemblies, and completed assemblies. The inspector will interpret engineering drawings and specifications, perform dimensional verification using calibrated hand tools and CMM equipment, and maintain accurate, audit-ready quality records. Strong GD&T skills are required; familiarity with prime aerospace contractor quality requirements is a strong plus.

Key Responsibilities

· Perform First Piece Inspection (FPI), in-process inspection, and final inspection on fixtures, tooling, assemblies, and related aerospace hardware.

· Inspect parts and assemblies against engineering drawings, 3D models/CAD data, work instructions, purchase orders, process specifications, and customer requirements.

· Interpret and apply Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) per ASME Y14.5, including datum reference frames, position, profile, flatness, perpendicularity, parallelism, runout, concentricity, and composite tolerances.

· Plan and perform inspections using appropriate measurement methods based on part geometry, tolerance, datum structure, and required accuracy.

· Operate and program basic-to-intermediate CMM inspections; create or edit part programs, align parts, select probes, establish datums, measure features, and evaluate results.

· Use hand inspection tools to verify dimensions, threads, surface condition, fit, and assembly characteristics.

· Perform visual inspection for workmanship, burrs, scratches, dents, corrosion, coating/finish condition, marking, identification, and assembly completeness.

· Verify hardware, fastener installation, bonding/grounding requirements, and assembly sequence where applicable.

· Complete First Article Inspection Reports (FAIRs), inspection reports, travelers, nonconformance reports, rejection tags, and certificates of conformance.

· Identify, document, segregate, and disposition nonconforming product in accordance with company and customer procedures.

· Support root-cause analysis, corrective actions, MRB activities, and continuous-improvement projects.

· Maintain calibration control by using only properly calibrated, identified inspection equipment and reporting damaged or suspect tools.

· Maintain organized inspection records, data files, CMM reports, photographs, and traceability documentation.

· Work closely with Manufacturing, Engineering, Program Management, and Supply Chain to resolve quality issues and prevent recurrence.

Required Hand Tools and Equipment

The candidate must be proficient with, at minimum:

· Outside micrometers, including standard and digital micrometers

· Inside micrometers and telescoping gauges, Bore gauges / dial bore gauges

· Dial calipers and digital calipers

· Depth micrometers and depth gauges

· Height gauges and height masters

· Dial indicators, test indicators, magnetic bases, and surface plates

· Pin gauges, plug gauges, ring gauges, and go/no-go gauges

· Radius gauges, angle gauges, protractors, and bevel protractors

· Feeler gauges and thickness gauges

· Straight edges, squares, V-blocks, parallels, and sine bars/plates

· Surface-finish comparison plates or profilometer, where applicable

· Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM), including manual and/or DCC operation

Required Qualifications

· 7+ years of quality inspection experience in aerospace, defense, medical, or another precision-manufacturing environment.

· Strong ability to read and interpret aerospace engineering drawings, specifications, models, and inspection planning documents.

· Strong working knowledge of GD&T per ASME Y14.5.

· Demonstrated proficiency with precision hand tools and CMM inspection.

· Experience performing first-piece, in-process, and final inspections.

· Ability to write clear, accurate inspection reports and maintain traceability.

· Ability to work independently, prioritize multiple jobs, and maintain accuracy under production deadlines.

Physical Requirements

· Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and reach for extended periods.

· Ability to lift up to [35–50] lbs occasionally.

· Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with noise, coolant, oils, and metal parts.

· Ability to wear required PPE, including safety glasses and safety shoes.

· Normal color vision and ability to distinguish fine surface and workmanship details may be required for visual inspection.

Success in This Role

The successful inspector will combine strong measurement skills with disciplined documentation and a practical understanding of aerospace quality requirements. They will ensure that every fixture and assembly is verified against the drawing, specification, and customer flow-down before release—while supporting production without compromising traceability or compliance.

Benefits

· Weekly Pay

· Overtime opportunities

· Employer paid Life Insurance

· Paid holidays

· Paid time off

· 401(k) Retirement plan

· Dental insurance

· Health insurance

· Vision insurance

Air-conditioned

Pay: From $36.00 per hour

Application Question(s):

• Are you a US citizen
• Do you have 7+ years of aerospace/precision machining inspection experience?

Work Location: In person