Quality Inspector - First Article Inspector

Quality Inspector

RTCA is a precision aerospace and defense manufacturing group built on decades of hands-on machining expertise, with roots spanning more than 50 years. We support mission-critical commercial and government aerospace programs across North America through four U.S. Centers of Excellence operating as an integrated platform with 150+ CNC machines and a team of 250+ professionals.

Unlike large organizations where roles can be narrow, RTCA offers hands-on ownership and real visibility you understand how your work supports the team, the operation, and the end customer. Our flat structure allows employees to take initiative, grow their skills, and have their contributions recognized, while still providing the stability, advanced technology, and meaningful work of an established aerospace manufacturer.

At RTCA, we believe in teamwork, excellence, and delivering with pride. One Team! One Mission!

The Quality Inspector is responsible for performing inspections of raw materials, in-process components, and finished products to ensure compliance with engineering drawings, customer specifications, and quality standards within a precision manufacturing environment. This role supports production and quality objectives through accurate inspection, documentation, problem-solving, and collaboration with cross-functional teams. Depending on experience and level, the Quality Inspector may support or lead advanced inspection activities, quality investigations, continuous improvement initiatives, and mentoring of junior personnel.

What you'll be doing as a Quality Inspector:

• Working a full-time, onsite position at our Fife, WA location.
• Perform dimensional and visual inspections on raw materials, in-process parts, assemblies, and finished components using precision measurement tools and standard inspection techniques.
• Interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, models, specifications, manufacturing plans, and work instructions in accordance with ASME Y14.5 GD&T requirements.
• Verify product conformity to customer, regulatory, and internal quality requirements including AS9100 and ISO standards.
• Utilize inspection equipment including micrometers, calipers, bore gauges, height gauges, surface plates, optical comparators, and other precision instruments.
• Verify calibration status and proper handling of inspection tools and equipment.
• Complete and maintain accurate inspection records, traceability documentation, range forms, FAIRs, and other quality documentation as required.
• Support or perform First Article Inspection (FAI) activities and AS9102 documentation.
• Identify, document, and communicate nonconforming conditions while collaborating with Production, Engineering, and Quality teams on containment and resolution activities.
• Participate in root cause analysis, corrective actions, preventive actions, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Maintain inspection staging areas, documentation control, and part traceability throughout the inspection process.
• Communicate inspection findings, production status, and quality concerns clearly and professionally to internal teams and customers as needed.
• Support audits, customer visits, and quality system compliance activities when assigned.
• Train, mentor, or provide technical guidance to other inspectors based on experience and level.
• Adhere to all company safety policies and maintain a clean, organized work environment.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications (Education, skills and experience):

• Experience in quality inspection within aerospace, precision machining, or manufacturing environments.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, specifications, and technical documentation.
• Working knowledge of AS9100 and/or ISO 9001 quality management systems.
• Familiarity with ASME Y14.5 geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T).
• Proficiency using standard inspection equipment including micrometers, calipers, bore gauges, height gauges, and related precision tools.
• Understanding of inspection methods, measurement techniques, and basic shop math/trigonometry.
• Ability to accurately complete inspection and quality documentation.
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and problem-solving abilities.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills with the ability to work independently and within cross-functional teams.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and familiarity with ERP/MRP systems.

Preferred Qualifications (Education, skills and experience):

• Experience with First Article Inspection Reports (FAIRs) and AS9102 documentation.
• Experience with Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMM) and related software such as Calypso, Mitutoyo MCOSMOS, Verisurf, or similar systems.
• Knowledge of advanced inspection methods, statistical process control (SPC), Lean manufacturing, or Six Sigma methodologies.
• Experience supporting audits, corrective action investigations, or continuous improvement initiatives.
• Technical certification, ASQ certification, or post-secondary education in Quality, Manufacturing, Engineering, or a related field.
• Experience mentoring or training team members in inspection techniques and quality processes.

Compensation and Benefits:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
• Choice of medical plan options, including a no-cost employee-only coverage plan
• HSA-eligible health plan with employer contributions
• Basic and supplemental life insurance
• Long-term disability coverage
• 401(k) plan with up to a 6% QACA company match
• Paid time off including vacation, sick time, and nine (9) paid company holidays
• Shift differentials for applicable off-shifts
• Discretionary bonus programs based on position and company performance

The Quality/First Article Inspector Compensation range for onsite Washington applicants is $25-32 per hour with experience. Some shifts may include shift differential pay rates. Other site ranges may differ.

This position must meet Export Control compliance requirements, therefore a "US Person" as defined by 22 C.F.R. 120.15 is required.

RTCA is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity), national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.