Quality Planning Specialist

Quality Planning Specialist

Tessera is seeking a new Quality Planning Specialist to join our growing Aerospace Manufacturing team in Auburn, Washington. The Quality Planning Specialist is responsible for ensuring that all products are quality-ready prior to release to production. This role leads First Article Inspection Report (FAIR) preparation and execution (AS9102) while owning key front-end Quality Assurance activities, including inspection planning, drawing ballooning, and requirement validation.

They serve as a critical link between Quality Engineering, Planning, and Production, and ensures that all customer requirements are clearly defined, traceable, and executable. The role is focused on preventing quality issues before they occur, reducing downstream rework, inspection inefficiencies, and production delays.

Typical duties include but are not limited to:

• Lead end-to-end preparation and completion of FAIRs in compliance with AS9102
• Create and maintain ballooned drawings, FAIR Forms 1, 2, and 3, and supporting objective evidence
• Coordinate with cross-functional teams to ensure all characteristics are captured and verified
• Manage delta FAIRs and updates for repeat or revised jobs
• Ensure timely and accurate submission of FAIR packages to customers
• Define and document inspection requirements aligned to the manufacturing router
• Determine appropriate inspection methods (CMM, manual, in-process verification)
• Ensure inspection steps are properly sequenced with production operations
• Identify required gages and inspection tools prior to job release
• Eliminate redundant effort, prevent missed requirements, and streamline inspection execution
• Own the creation and standardization of ballooned drawings
• Ensure all drawing requirements are clearly identified, linked to specific operations, and tied to inspection methods and FAIR documentation
• Maintain consistency across new and repeat jobs
• Establish a clean, consistent "digital thread" from drawing ? planning ? inspection ? FAIR
• Participate in contract review and new job kickoff to validate quality requirements and flow downs
• Review routers and planning outputs to ensure all drawing and specification requirements are captured, critical features are properly identified, and inspection steps are complete and executable
• Identify and escalate gaps or risks prior to release to production
• Define First Piece Inspection (FPI) requirements during planning
• Ensure readiness of inspection methods, gages and tools, and supporting documentation
• Support initial validation of first-run parts on critical or complex jobs
• Review and validate requirements for special processes (e.g., anodize, paint, NDT)
• Ensure proper flow down of specifications to suppliers and internal teams
• Confirm certification and traceability requirements are defined upfront
• Support and maintain FAIR and inspection-related tools (e.g., ballooning software, FAIR systems)
• Develop and maintain standard work, templates, and best practices
• Ensure documentation is audit-ready and compliant with AS9100 and customer requirements
• Act as a liaison between Quality Engineering, Planning, and Production (Machining, Fabrication, Assembly)
• Communicate quality requirements clearly to stakeholders
• Support alignment between design intent and manufacturing execution
• All Other Duties as Assigned.

Qualifications:

• High School Diploma/GED is required
• 3 5 years of previous experience in Aerospace, Precision Manufacturing Quality, or with FAIR and ballooning tools is required.
• Combination of previous experience and education will be considered.
• Previous experience supporting new product introduction or planning validation, knowledge of special processes and aerospace specifications, and experience working in a cross-functional manufacturing environment is preferred.
• Must have strong knowledge of AS9100 Quality Management Systems, AS9102 First Article Inspection Requirements, and GD & T (ASME Y14.5).
• Must be able to read and interpret complex engineering drawings and specifications.
• Must be familiar with CNC machining, fabrication, and/or assembly processes.

Physical Requirements:

Employees must have the ability to perform the following physical demands for extended periods of time with or without assistance. The physical demands of this position may be reasonably accommodated for individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions on a case-by-case basis.

• Must be able to lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
• May be required to reach, kneel, walk, stand, and use repetitive motion for several hours at a time based on position duties.
• Work may require repetitive motion, reaching, lifting, kneeling, and walking. Standing or sitting for several hours at a time, climbing in and out of a vehicle, and up and down stairs may also be required.
• Must have the perseverance to work effectively under pressure for extended periods of time.

Requirements:

• A valid state driver's license is preferred with the ability to obtain and maintain coverage by Tessera's insurance.
• Access to a federal military installation requires a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or an acceptable alternative, such as a U.S. passport or military ID, in accordance with the REAL ID Act. Please visit this website for more information: .
• Must be able to obtain and maintain applicable security clearances and installation access. A background check and E-Verify will be conducted for this position.

Tessera is a national non-profit, government contractor that is dedicated to "Creating Opportunities for People with Disabilities" through hiring and supporting individuals with disabilities and veterans with disabilities. We take pride in our mission-focused culture, our Core Values, Diversity, Partnership, Commitment, Integrity, and Quality, and our dedication to providing a safe and respectful work environment to our employees.

Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

Tessera is here to help you with the recruitment process.

If you require an accommodation or support, please contact us at View phone number on click.appcast.io, or email View email address on click.appcast.io.

Tessera is an Equal Opportunity Employer - Women/Minority/Veteran/Disabled - Tessera participates in E-Verify