Machine Shop Quality Technician

BASIC PURPOSE: 

The primary purpose of this position is to ensure the highest quality standards are met in the manufacturing process by driving investigations into quality issues, implementing and revising standard procedures, and training employees on best practices. This role serves as a key link between quality assurance and manufacturing, facilitating communication and continuous improvement to enhance product integrity and operational efficiency.

MAJOR ACCOUNTABILITIES/RESPONSIBILITIES OF JOB:

• Communicates with internal customers to resolve any quality-related issues.
• Drive investigation and corrective action processes to resolve quality issues, collaborating with programmers and operators during production to determine effective resolutions, including but  not limited to:
  1. Ensuring proper measuring equipment is available to produce every part. 
  2. Ensuring all measuring equipment is always calibrated.
  3. Documenting critical features of a first article (the first item or unit produced in a manufacturing cycle)
  4. Communicating to machine programmers and/or operators how to proceed post-investigation.
  5. As needed, re-train operators, as needed (e.g., measuring equipment training, parts inspection training, or other critical quality topics).
  6. Document all quality incident issues and corrective action.
      
      
• Takes administrative steps to revises and implements standard processes and procedures, including applicable documentation for manufacturing departments.
• Oversee measurement equipment processes, including selecting appropriate gauging for production parts, ensuring calibration, and training operators on their proper use.
• Conducts first article inspections and random inspections as required, ensuring ongoing compliance and that employees are properly trained. 
• Identify critical features for first article inspections and train operators on inspection procedures.
• Trains and supports manufacturing employees with best practices in quality inspection and documentation.
• Maintain and manage all documentation related to equipment, training, inspections, and quality processes.
• Align all quality procedures and documentation standards according to ISO9001 standards, and in alignment with standards and procedures.
• Suggests areas and equipment for improvement opportunities.
• Complete other related duties, as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILL REQUIREMENTS:          

• 5 years' experience in a machine shop environment within a manufacturing company
• Technical knowledge of manufacturing equipment and techniques.
• Demonstrated experience with a wide range of measurement equipment   (e.g. various types of calipers and micrometers, hardness testers, gauge blocks, plug and ring gauges, visual measuring systems etc.)
• Demonstrable grasp of mathematics 
• Inclinations toward thoroughness and precision
• Strong analytical and mechanical skills.
• Team-oriented individual.
• Technical reading comprehension, including understanding and reading of engineering drawings is required. Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) preferred
• Knowledge of quality systems (ISO 9001)
• Comprehensive knowledge of lean improvement methodology is a plus.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Strong computer skills including Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel, machine shop systems, CAD drafting, ERP, and other related computer skills
• Experience in problem solving techniques (e.g. 5 Whys,