Quality Inspector

Job DescriptionJob DescriptionRole Name: Quality Inspector Work Location:Kinston, North Carolina (Onsite) Role and Responsibilities: The Quality Inspector (Quality Line Side - QLS) is responsible for performing line-side inspections on aerostructure assemblies and components to ensure compliance with engineering, manufacturing, regulatory, and customer requirements. The inspector works directly within the Kinston production environment supporting A350 programs, performing detailed inspections of fuselage panels, structural assemblies, finishes, fastener installations, and product conformity. This role serves as a critical member of the Quality Operations team, responsible for identifying, documenting, and managing non-conformities while ensuring product integrity, traceability, safety, and compliance with Production Organization Approval (POA) and applicable aerospace regulations. Key ResponsibilitiesAircraft Structure Inspection Conduct Quality Line Side (QLS) inspections on aircraft structures including: Left and Right PanelsLateralsJunctionsCrown assembliesForward Lower Shell assembliesInternal (IML) and External (OML) surfacesVerify structural conformity againstmanufacturing and quality requirements. Paint and Surface Inspection Perform OML paint inspections in accordance with process specifications, including: Global appearance and color verificationPaint thickness measurementSpecular gloss evaluationOrange peel assessmentSurface condition inspection Fastener Installation Inspection Inspect and verify: Countersunk fastener dishingFastener flushnessFastener collar and grip lengthLockbolt installationsDamaged collars and nutsFastener angularity requirementsUtilize calibrated gauges and measuring equipment in accordance with assembly instructions. Structural Defect Assessment Perform inspections and evaluations of: Surface damageComposite laminate conditionsStructural deviationsContour and dimensional conformityComponent condition of supplySupport defect characterization and concession verification activities. Non-Conformance ManagementIdentify and contain product non-conformities.Create and process Non-Conformance Reports (NCRs).Enter and maintain quality data within MES/SAP systems.Verify concessions and defect dispositions.Support corrective and preventive action activities.Participate in root cause investigations and problem-solving initiatives. Foreign Object Debris (FOD) PreventionVerify removal of FOD from structures, cavities, and assemblies prior to release.Apply IAQG EN9146 FOD prevention principles.Support zero-defect and zero-FOD objectives.Promote product safety and workmanship excellence. Documentation & ComplianceDocument inspection results accurately and completely.Maintain traceability records.Ensure compliance with quality processes and work instructions.Participate in operational surveillance activities and process adherence reviews.Support quality audits and customer inspections. Required QualificationsEducationHigh School Diploma or GED required.Associate Degree in Aerospace, Manufacturing, Engineering Technology, or Quality preferred. ExperienceMinimum 3 years of quality inspection experience in aerospace manufacturing, aircraft assembly, composites, or aerostructures.Experience performing line-side inspections in a production environment.Experience with non-conformance management systems.Experience using MES, SAP, or equivalent manufacturing systems preferred. Technical Requirements Must Have Knowledge Of Aerospace manufacturing processesAircraft structures and assembliesComposite and metallic aerostructuresFastener installation inspectionDimensional inspection techniquesProduct conformity verificationFOD prevention programsConfiguration management principlesQuality Management Systems (QMS) Inspection Tools & Equipment Proficiency using: CalipersMicrometersFlushness gaugesHeight/Length gaugesMagnifying devicesMirrorsFlashlightsPrecision measuring equipmentCalibrated inspection tools Systems & Software Experience using: SAPMES (Manufacturing Execution System)Microsoft OfficeDigital inspection applicationsMIRA inspection tools (preferred)Partner Portal applications (preferred) CompetenciesStrong attention to detailExcellent visual inspection capabilityAnalytical and problem-solving skillsRoot cause investigation capabilityQuality-focused mindsetStrong written documentation skillsAbility to work independently and within cross-functional teamsEffective communication skillsContinuous improvement mindset Physical RequirementsAbility to work in a manufacturing environment.Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.Ability to climb and safely work from elevated platforms.Ability to perform inspections in confined and restricted-access areas.Ability to meet visual acuity requirements for aerospace inspection activities.Ability to wear required PPE Compliance100% qualification and certification compliance.Participation in SQCDP routines.Support zero FOD incidents.Support continuous improvement and operational excellence initiatives. Preferred CertificationsASQ Certified Quality Inspector (CQI)Aerospace Quality Training (AS9100)FOD Prevention TrainingRoot Cause Analysis TrainingLean Manufacturing / Continuous Improvement TrainingWork at Heights Certification #ZR