AS 9100, Aerospace Engineering, Aerospace and Defense, Aviation Industry, Calibration, Capability Maturity Model (CMM), Code of Federal Regulations, Component Assembly, Database Administration, Document Management, Engineering Drawing, Equipment Maintenance/Repair, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing, High School Diploma, ISO (International Organization for Standardization), International Electro-Technical Commission (IEC), Lift/Move 40 Pounds, Manufacturing, Military/DoD Standards, Outsourcing, Process Analysis, Process Capability, Quality Assurance, Quality Control, Regulations, Root Cause Analysis, Test & Measurement Equipment, Traceability, U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), Vision Comparator
Quality Inspector - Aerospace Components
Department: Quality Assurance Reports to: Quality Manager FLSA Status: Non-exempt Location: On-site, Perkasie, PA
Position Summary
We are seeking an experienced Quality Inspector to perform dimensional, visual, and functional inspection of machined parts, assemblies, and rotorcraft components, while owning the calibration program for the company's measurement and test equipment. This role operates with minimal supervision and serves as a technical resource for production staff, junior inspectors, and engineering on quality matters.
Key Responsibilities
Inspection (~50%)
- Perform first article, in-process, and final inspection of machined and fabricated aerospace components per engineering drawings, customer specifications, and applicable FAA/military standards
- Interpret complex engineering drawings, including GD&T per ASME Y14.5, and translate tolerances into inspection plans
- Operate and verify calibration status of precision measurement equipment: micrometers, calipers, height gauges, bore gauges, optical comparators, surface plates, and CMM (operator-level programming a plus)
- Document inspection results, non-conformances, and disposition records in accordance with AS9102 (FAIR) and internal procedures
- Initiate and process Non-Conformance Reports (NCRs); participate in MRB activity and root cause analysis
Calibration of Equipment (~50%)
- Own and maintain the calibration program for all measurement, inspection, and test equipment (M&TE) in accordance with AS9100 and ISO 10012 requirements
- Maintain the calibration database/log: track due dates, calibration intervals, instrument history, and ensure no out-of-tolerance equipment remains in service
- Coordinate with external accredited calibration vendors (ISO/IEC 17025) for outsourced calibrations; review incoming certificates for completeness, traceability to NIST, and proper measurement uncertainty
- Perform routine in-house calibration and verification activities where qualified (e.g., gauge blocks, pin gauges, basic dimensional standards)
- Apply calibration labels, segregate and tag out-of-tolerance or overdue equipment, and issue recall notices to equipment users
- Investigate out-of-tolerance conditions, perform reverse-traceability assessments on prior inspections, and document findings per AS9100 requirements
- Support gauge R&R studies and provide calibration data for process capability analysis
- Maintain calibration procedures and work instructions as part of the controlled document set
Required Qualifications
- 1+ years of inspection experience in an aerospace, defense, or other regulated manufacturing environment
- Demonstrated ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, GD&T (ASME Y14.5), and aerospace specifications
- Hands-on proficiency with standard precision measurement tools and inspection techniques
- Working knowledge of AS9100 and AS9102 (First Article Inspection)
- Familiarity with calibration concepts: NIST traceability, measurement uncertainty, calibration intervals, and out-of-tolerance handling
- Familiarity with FAA regulatory framework as it applies to aviation parts manufacturing or repair (14 CFR Parts 21, 43, 145 as applicable)
- Strong written documentation skills; able to produce clear, auditable inspection and calibration records
- High school diploma or equivalent; technical certificate or associate's degree preferred
Physical and Work Environment
- Shop-floor environment with exposure to noise, machinery, and varying temperatures
- Ability to lift up to 40 lbs, stand for extended periods, and perform repetitive close-vision work
- Use of standard PPE required
What Success Looks Like in This Role
Within 6 months, the Quality Inspector will be independently dispositioning standard inspections and will have full ownership of the calibration program - with all M&TE current, certificates reviewed and filed, and recall procedures running smoothly.