Manufacturing Quality Inspector

JOB DESCRIPTION: PMA Quality Inspector

Position Overview:

The PMA FAA (Parts Manufacturer Approval) Quality Inspector ensures that all manufactured parts, components, and assemblies meet regulatory, safety, and company quality standards. This role involves inspecting incoming materials, in-process items, and finished products to verify compliance with FAA-approved specifications, engineering drawings, and quality procedures. The inspector identifies nonconformities, documents findings, and collaborates with production and engineering teams to maintain high standards of product quality and regulatory compliance.

Key Responsibilities:
• Conduct inspections on all completed work before release to service or stores, ensuring proper execution of reports and forms.
• Maintain organized files of work orders and inspection records for FAA review.
• Establish and implement inspection standards, methods, and procedures in compliance with FAA regulations and manufacturer recommendations.
• Oversee identification, repair, and calibration of production and inspection tools and equipment; maintain documentation per the Quality Manual.
• Participate in employee development and training for Production/Quality staff.
• Ensure Special Processes are maintained with proper records and requisition new equipment for the Quality Department.
• Review manual revisions, operating procedures, and new drawings to ensure compliance with quality standards.
• Collaborate with Engineering, Planning, Production, and Suppliers to resolve quality issues.
• Conduct supplier audits and surveys; review purchase orders for FAA compliance.
• Analyze quality data to identify trends, determine causes of repetitive issues, and implement corrective actions.
• Develop and improve the overall quality system and monitor effectiveness.
• Liaise with customers on complaints or rejections, determining root causes and implementing corrective actions.
• Conduct inter-departmental quality assurance audits and prepare reports for quality activities.
• Serve as FAA liaison for the Quality Department and report to the company FAA accountable manager.
• Perform receiving inspections of materials and hardware; conduct final inspections of PMA kits and products before packaging and shipping.
• Close and invoice work tickets, ensuring proper transfer of inventory before parts leave the facility.

Examples of Duties:
• Inspect components and assemblies to ensure compliance with engineering specifications.
• Audit technical certification documents per Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs).
• Organize daily activities to maximize efficiency and achieve departmental goals.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills and Qualifications:
• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret engineering drawings, technical procedures, aerospace specifications, and government regulations.
• Knowledge of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) per ANSI/ASME Y14.5.
• Proficient with inspection tools (micrometers, calipers, height gauges) and First Article Inspections.
• Strong mathematical skills, including basic trigonometry and quality statistics.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Excel, Access, and Word.
• Excellent communication skills: able to present information and respond to questions from managers, peers, and customers.
• Strong attention to detail, ability to follow instructions, and work independently.
• Physical ability to lift materials and perform extended periods of standing, sitting, or moving.
• Team player with a positive attitude and strong work ethic.

Education and Experience:
• Five years of related experience or training; or
• Understanding of manufacturing and production methods and processes.
• Logical thinker with the ability to apply inspection methods and techniques effectively.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively.

Work Environment:
• Shop setting with moderate movement.
• Exposure to fumes, dust, chemicals, and loud noise.
• Operating hours: Monday-Thursday, 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM.
• May require unscheduled overtime.

Physical Demands:
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Extended periods of sitting, standing, stooping, or moving.

Compensation and Benefits:
• Wage commensurate with experience
• Select paid holidays and paid vacation
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k)
• Life insurance
• Voluntary accident and hospital indemnity plans
• Critical Illness plan
• Company paid Teladoc plan