Quality Assurance Inspector Level I

Job Description

Job Description

We are seeking an entry-level  Quality Assurance Inspector I (QAI I)to join our maritime ship repair and modernization team in San Diego. In this role, you will be responsible for performing basic visual, dimensional, and technical inspections of in-process and completed shipboard structural, mechanical, and electrical components.

As a Level I Inspector, you will work under the direct supervision of Level II/III inspectors and QA managers, strictly adhering to pre-established NAVSEA standard items, military specifications, and company quality procedures. This is an excellent opportunity for an individual with foundational shipyard trades experience or technical training to transition into a career in Quality Assurance.

Core Responsibilities

• Inspection Execution: Perform standard visual and dimensional inspections of structural fit-ups, tack welds, mechanical assemblies, and marine coating profiles using specified checklists.
• Equipment Calibration: Set up, verify, and calibrate basic inspection tools and non-destructive testing (NDT) equipment (such as calipers, micrometers, dial indicators, wet/dry film thickness gauges, and surface profile gauges) according to step-by-step procedures.
• Data & Documentation: Accurately record raw inspection data, measurements, and test results into written logs, Checkpoints, and company QA/QC tracking databases.
• Material Control: Identify, tag, and segregate non-conforming, defective, or out-of-specification materials and assemblies to prevent their use in production.
• Supervised Testing: Assist Level II and III inspectors in conducting non-destructive testing (such as Liquid Penetrant or Magnetic Particle testing) and hydrostatic or structural testing.
• Safety Compliance: Adhere to all OSHA, Cal/OSHA, and shipyard safety regulations, including strict compliance with confined space entry requirements and fall protection standards.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Education: High School Diploma or equivalent required. Technical certification or military equivalent training is a plus.
• Experience: 1–3 years of experience in a shipyard, maritime repair, or heavy manufacturing environment. Direct exposure to skilled trades (welding, pipefitting, structural fabrication, or marine painting) is highly preferred.
• Technical Skills:
  • Ability to read and interpret basic engineering drawings, blueprints, and technical schematics.
  • Familiarity with precision measuring instruments (calipers, micrometers, height gauges).
  • Basic computer proficiency, including experience with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel) and data entry.
• Certifications (Preferred or capable of obtaining):
  • Shipyard Competent Person (SYCP) or Confined Space Entry certification.
  • OSHA 10-Hour Maritime (NAVSEA/VSRA compliant).
  • Ability to qualify for foundational QA/NDT certifications within the first 6 months.
• Physical Demands: Must be comfortable working in a rugged shipyard environment, which includes climbing ladders, working at heights (fall protection required), entering confined spaces, and lifting up to 50 lbs. Must be able to pass a visual acuity exam.
• Security Clearances: Must be a U.S. citizen capable of obtaining RapidGate / DBIDS credentials for access to local U.S. Navy bases and naval shipyards.

Benefits: 

• Health insurance
• Paid holidays
• Paid sick leave

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About LEAD Staffing 

Lead Staffing, established in 2010, specializes in Construction, Industrial and Marine Staffing of Skilled Tradespeople throughout the United States of America. Our goal is to work with regional and national contractors that share our commitment towards safety and to provide long term rewarding work assignments for our valued employees.

LEAD is proud to be an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer.  

LEAD is committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where employment opportunities are available to all applicants and teammates without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy (including childbirth, lactation and related medical conditions), national origin, age, physical and mental disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information (including characteristics and testing), military and veteran status, and any other characteristic protected by applicable law.  We believe that diversity and inclusion among our teammates is critical to our success as a growing national company, and we seek to recruit, develop and retain the most talented people from a diverse candidate pool.

Lead SD Marine 

“At LEAD, your career is our top priority. As a leading recruiting partner, we're dedicated to connecting talented job seekers with exciting opportunities and rewarding careers across a variety of dynamic industries. Our team takes the time to understand our employee's unique skills, experience, and professional goals. We then leverage our extensive network and industry expertise to match them with the perfect fit - whether that's a short-term project, long-term contract, or a permanent role. Employee's don't just settle for just any job - they partner with LEAD and unlock a world of rewarding possibilities for themselves. Apply today and let us help you find the perfect fit.”

Company Description

“At LEAD, your career is our top priority. As a leading recruiting partner, we're dedicated to connecting talented job seekers with exciting opportunities and rewarding careers across a variety of dynamic industries. Our team takes the time to understand our employee's unique skills, experience, and professional goals. We then leverage our extensive network and industry expertise to match them with the perfect fit - whether that's a short-term project, long-term contract, or a permanent role. Employee's don't just settle for just any job - they partner with LEAD and unlock a world of rewarding possibilities for themselves. Apply today and let us help you find the perfect fit.”