Lead Quality Assurance Inspector

JOB PURPOSE:

The Lead Inspector is responsible for performing inspection activities while providing day-to-day leadership and technical guidance to the inspection team. This role serves as the primary resource for inspection processes, quality standards, and compliance requirements, ensuring products meet customer, regulatory, and company quality expectations. The Lead Inspector assists with coordinating workflow, training personnel, resolving quality issues, and supporting continuous improvement initiatives.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES:

• Perform in-process, final, and receiving inspections in accordance with company procedures and customer specifications
• Lead and coordinate daily inspection activities to ensure priorities and production schedules are met
• Provide guidance and technical support to inspectors regarding quality standards, procedures, and inspection methods
• Train, mentor, and onboard new inspectors and support ongoing employee development.
• Review inspection reports, records, and documentation for accuracy and completeness
• Assist in investigating nonconformances, customer complaints, and internal quality issues
• Support corrective and preventive action (CAPA) activities and verify effectiveness of implemented actions
• Serve as the primary escalation point for inspection-related questions and concerns
• Coordinate with Production, Engineering, Manufacturing, and Quality Management to resolve quality issues and improve processes
• Ensure compliance with customer requirements, company procedures, and applicable regulatory standards
• Monitor inspection workload and assist in prioritizing resources to meet operational needs
• Participate in audits and support audit preparation activities
• Identify opportunities for process improvement and recommend actions to improve quality, efficiency, and compliance
• Assist management with performance feedback and evaluation of inspection personnel
• Maintain a safe and organized work environment in accordance with company policies

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provide daily direction and work assignment coordination for inspectors
• Promote consistency in inspection practices across all shifts and areas
• Foster a culture of quality, accountability, and continuous improvement
• Act as the Quality Department representative in the absence of Quality Management when appropriate
• Support employee engagement, training, and development initiatives

EXPERIENCE, SKILLS, EDUCATION AND TRAINING:

Education

• High School Diploma or GED required
• Associate degree or technical certification in Quality, Manufacturing, Engineering, or related field preferred

Experience

• 5+ years of inspection or quality assurance experience in a manufacturing environment
• Previous experience training, mentoring, or leading team members preferred
• Experience with quality management systems and manufacturing processes

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong understanding of quality inspection techniques and methodologies
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, specifications, blueprints, and work instructions
• Knowledge of GD&T, inspection equipment, and measurement techniques
• Familiarity with root cause analysis and corrective action processes
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks and work independently
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and quality documentation systems

Equipment Used

• Calipers
• Micrometers
• Height gauges
• Optical comparators
• CMMs (coordinate measuring machines)
• Various precision measurement instruments and quality management software

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• First-pass yield and defect reduction
• Inspection accuracy
• On-time completion of inspections
• Internal and external audit performance
• Training completion and employee development
• Reduction in quality escapes and customer complaints
• Continuous improvement participation and results

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, and inspect products for extended periods
• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds occasionally
• Visual acuity sufficient to perform detailed inspections and measurements

Other Special Requirements

• Support cross functional teams and departments as required
• Perform job duties in accordance to ISO 13485/9001 including ISO audits
• Travel may be required to support company initiatives

Safety Responsibilities

• Ensure that all safety procedures are followed
• Ensure that all equipment safeties are not altered or defeated

Direct Reports

• None

NOTE: This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all possible duties, responsibilities and or qualifications. Other duties, responsibilities and/or qualifications may be assigned to this position.