1st Shift Quality Inspector

Location: Gastonia, NC 28056
Pay Rate: $18.00 to $25.00 per hour, depending on experience (DOE)
Job Type: Full-Time
Shift: 1st Shift
Schedule: Monday through Friday | 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM

Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced, dependable, and detail-oriented 1st Shift Quality Inspector to join a fast-paced automotive manufacturing facility in Gastonia, NC.

This position is responsible for performing visual and dimensional inspections of metal and mechanical components to ensure compliance with engineering specifications, customer requirements, and established quality standards.

Candidates MUST have previous manufacturing quality inspection experience, the ability to read and interpret blueprints, and hands-on experience using calipers and micrometers. These are mandatory requirements for consideration.

Key Responsibilities

Quality Inspection & Measurement

• Perform visual and dimensional inspections of incoming materials, in-process components, and finished products.

• Read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, dimensions, and tolerances to verify product specifications.

• Accurately use calipers and micrometers to measure and inspect manufactured components.

• Utilize height gauges, inspection gauges, and other precision measuring instruments as required.

• Verify measurements against engineering specifications and established quality standards.

• Identify defects, dimensional variations, and non-conforming components.

• Operate Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMMs) when required and based on experience.

• Properly identify, separate, and report defective or out-of-specification materials.

Quality Documentation & Reporting

• Record inspection measurements, results, and findings accurately.

• Complete inspection reports and maintain required quality documentation.

• Report defects, quality concerns, and non-conforming materials to supervisors.

• Assist with Non-Conformance Reports (NCRs), corrective actions, and quality improvement initiatives.

• Maintain accurate inspection and product traceability records.

Production & Quality Support

• Monitor manufacturing processes to ensure products meet established quality standards.

• Collaborate with production, engineering, and quality teams to resolve inspection concerns.

• Assist with root-cause investigations and corrective actions.

• Support product containment, sorting, and reinspection activities when necessary.

• Ensure inspection equipment is properly maintained and calibrated.

• Follow company safety procedures, quality standards, and required PPE guidelines.

Required Qualifications

The following qualifications are mandatory:

• Previous hands-on quality inspection experience in a manufacturing environment.

• Proven ability to read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, and dimensional specifications.

• Hands-on experience using calipers for accurate dimensional measurements.

• Hands-on experience using micrometers for precision measurements.

• Ability to understand measurements, dimensions, and tolerances.

• Experience inspecting manufactured components for defects and quality issues.

• Ability to determine whether components meet required specifications.

• Basic computer skills and accurate documentation abilities.

• Strong attention to detail, reliability, and communication skills.

• Ability to work independently and maintain inspection accuracy in a fast-paced environment.

Important: Candidates who do not have experience reading blueprints AND using both calipers and micrometers will not qualify for this position.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in automotive, metal fabrication, stamping, or machining environments.

• Knowledge of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).

• Experience using height gauges, inspection gauges, or Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMMs).

• Familiarity with ISO 9001 or IATF 16949 quality standards.

• Knowledge of Statistical Process Control (SPC).

• Experience with PPAP documentation, control plans, and corrective action processes.

• Technical training or certification in quality inspection, manufacturing, or machining.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.

• Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds.

• Ability to bend, reach, squat, and perform repetitive movements.

• Ability to visually inspect components and accurately read precision measuring instruments.

• Ability to work the full scheduled shift.

Work Environment

This position is performed in an automotive manufacturing facility and may involve exposure to machinery, noise, dust, and changing temperatures. Employees must follow all safety procedures and wear required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).