General Purpose The In-Process / First-Piece Inspector is a critical member of the Quality Department responsible for ensuring that machined parts meet all customer, engineering, and industry requirements. This role focuses on inspecting first-off parts, validating setups, and performing in-process inspections to prevent defects, reduce scrap, and maintain the highest level of quality standards.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Perform first-piece inspections on initial production runs to verify compliance with engineering drawings and specifications.
- Conduct in-process inspections at specified intervals to monitor quality and verify requirements.
- Use precision measuring instruments such as micrometers, calipers, bore gauges, height gauges, and CMM.
- Accurately record inspection results in logs, check sheets, or digital systems.
- Complete First Article Inspection Reports (FAIRs) as required.
- Communicate non-conformances promptly to machinists, supervisors, or the quality manager.
- Work closely with machinists, programmers, and setup personnel to validate machine setups.
- Provide feedback to promote continuous improvement.
- Ensure inspection activities comply with company standards and ISO/AS requirements.
- Support calibration and proper use of inspection tools.
- Maintain adherence to safety protocols and 5S practices.
- Ability to detect deviations and recommend corrective actions.
- Identifies potential quality risks after they become issues.
- Takes responsibility for the accuracy and timeliness of inspections.
Supervisory Responsibilities None
Education/Experience Required
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- 2+ years of experience in machining, manufacturing, or inspection environment
- Strong knowledge of GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing)
- Proficiency with precision inspection tools (micrometers, calipers, comparators, CMM)
- Ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical specifications
- Strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills
- Good written and verbal communication skills
- Experience with ISO 9001, AS9100, or similar quality management systems
- Familiarity with statistical process control (SPC)
- Knowledge of ERP/MRP systems or digital quality management tools.
- Prior experience completing FAIRs or PPAPs.
Computer Skills Necessary Microsoft Office
Physical Demands/Requirements
- Ability to stand, walk, or sit for extended periods.
- Ability to lift to 50 lbs. occasionally.
- Sufficient vision to detect part flaws and read instruments.
Work Environment The warehouse environment may include exposure to varying temperatures, dust, noise, and potential hazards such as moving machinery.
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