Quality Assurance Technician

Q Microwave, a leader in the precision RF manufacturing, design and manufacture of cutting-edge military and defense microwave solutions, is seeking an Quality Assurance Technician to join our entrepreneurial, collaborative, and fast-paced team located in El Cajon, CA. Q Microwave is recognized for its advanced capabilities in RF filtering and custom RF subassemblies-technologies that require deep technical knowledge and a passion for precision. Our fully vertically integrated facility in San Diego enables close collaboration between design and manufacturing, ensuring unmatched quality and performance in RF product development. As a part of Amphenol's global network of over 130 business units, Q Microwave operates with the technical focus and agility of a specialized design center while leveraging the strength, stability, and resources of one of the world's largest interconnect solution providers.

As a Quality Assurance Technician, you will play a critical role in manufacturing cutting-edge RF and microwave subassemblies for mission-critical military and aerospace radar and communications systems. Your responsibilities will encompass Perform incoming, in-process and final inspection of RF filters and related electronic components to ensure they meet mechanical, electrical and quality requirements. Support internal and external customers by executing dimensional, visual and functional tests, documenting results and drive corrective actions when defects are found.

Key Responsibilities:

• Inspect incoming materials, subassemblies and finished RF filters per engineering drawings, specifications and inspection plans.
• Perform visual and dimensional inspections (microscope, calipers, micrometers, gauges) verifying plating, solder joints, housings, and mechanical tolerances.
• Perform electrical tests including continuity, DC resistance, capacitance and other functional checks per test procedures using LCR meters, DMMs and other equipment as required.
• Record inspection/test data, nonconformances and disposition in the QMS/ERP; generate NCRs and support root-cause/containment and corrective actions.
• Perform first article inspections (FAI), lot sampling, and final acceptance testing per customer or internal requirements.
• Supporting AS9100 and ISO 9001 implementations, execution, and audit activities.
• Participate in calibration scheduling and traceability.
• Apply and enforce ESD, safety and cleanliness procedures on the production floor.
• Work with engineering, production and quality teams to provide feedback on process capability and manufacturability.
• Responsible for performing all tasks in a safe and efficient manner complying with all local, state, and federal safety and health regulations, and special safety concerns.

Qualifications:

Education and Experience:

• High school diploma and relevant experience in electronics manufacturing with 10+ years' hands-on experience.
• Associate or Bachelor degree with a technical concentration in Engineering, Math, or Sciences with 5+ years' hands-on experience.
• Experience with ISO 9001 / AS9100 / IATF 16949 quality systems and FAI/PPAP processes.
• Experience using ERP/QMS systems (e.g., SAP) and test-data management.
• Proficient in MS Office suite - strong Word and Excel skills (pivot tables, graphs, charts)
• Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings, and BOMs.
• Strong attention to detail and good documentation habits.
• Must be a US Citizen or Permanent Legal Resident.
• Must be detail oriented, organized, punctual, have patience to work with very small parts using a microscope (mandatory) and able to work in a fast-paced environment as part of a team. Good attitude and willing to learn new things every day.
• English reading and speaking proficiency required. Must be able to follow written and verbal instructions.
• 5+ Years in Manufacturing environment, Military, Defense, or Electronics Manufacturing.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Leadership and Team work skills
• Certifications such as IPC-A-610, J-STD-001, or equivalent inspection/soldering certifications.
• Experience using ERP/QMS systems (e.g., SAP, NetSuite, EVO) and test-data management.
• Military or Aerospace manufacturing preferred.

Working Conditions:

• Physical Requirements:

• Must be able to lift up to ~30 lbs of test equipment with assistance.

• Work Environment:

• Manufacturing environment - requires wearing ESD wrist strap),

• Fast-paced production environment with a focus on quality control and attention to detail.

• Collaborative team setting with frequent interactions with engineers and other technicians.