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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for a Quality Inspector

💰 $45,000 - $65,000

Quality AssuranceManufacturingInspectionOperationsEngineering

🎯 Role Definition

As a Quality Inspector, you are the guardian of our product integrity and a crucial link in our manufacturing process. You will be responsible for performing detailed inspections and tests on materials, in-process components, and finished products to ensure they conform to our stringent quality standards, engineering drawings, and customer requirements. Your sharp eye for detail and commitment to precision will directly impact customer satisfaction and our reputation for excellence. This role requires a proactive individual who can identify and address quality issues, collaborate with production teams, and contribute to a culture of continuous improvement.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Production Associate / Assembly Technician
  • Machine Operator
  • CNC Machinist

Advancement To:

  • Senior Quality Inspector / Quality Lead
  • Quality Engineer
  • Quality Supervisor / Manager

Lateral Moves:

  • Process Technician
  • Supplier Quality Technician

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Perform comprehensive visual and dimensional inspections of raw materials, in-process components, and finished goods using a variety of precision measuring instruments such as calipers, micrometers, height gauges, and optical comparators.
  • Interpret complex engineering drawings, blueprints, and technical specifications, including an understanding of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) symbols, to verify product conformance.
  • Conduct First Article Inspections (FAI) on new or modified products to validate that the manufacturing process is capable of consistently producing parts that meet all requirements.
  • Accurately document inspection results, record test data, and maintain detailed logs and reports in the quality management system (QMS) or ERP system.
  • Identify, tag, and segregate non-conforming products or materials according to established procedures to prevent their unintended use.
  • Initiate and process Non-Conformance Reports (NCRs), Discrepant Material Reports (DMRs), or similar documentation for defective items, providing clear and concise descriptions of the defects.
  • Collaborate with engineering and production personnel to investigate the root cause of quality issues and participate in developing effective corrective and preventive actions (CAPAs).
  • Operate and, in some cases, program Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMM) and other advanced metrology equipment to perform complex measurements on critical part features.
  • Approve incoming materials by confirming specifications, conducting measurement and visual tests, and rejecting and returning unacceptable materials.
  • Approve in-process production by confirming specifications and communicating required adjustments to the production supervisor.
  • Approve finished products by confirming specifications, conducting required tests, and returning products for re-work if necessary.
  • Perform final inspections to verify that all operations have been completed, parts are free of defects, and all associated documentation is complete and accurate before shipment.
  • Calibrate and maintain inspection, measurement, and test equipment to ensure accuracy and reliability, and maintain corresponding calibration records.
  • Participate in internal and external quality audits to ensure compliance with industry standards such as ISO 9001, AS9100, or IATF 16949.
  • Read and adhere to work instructions, quality manuals, and standard operating procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistent and reliable inspection practices.

Secondary Functions

  • Assist in the training of production operators on quality criteria, inspection techniques, and the use of basic measurement tools.
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives, such as Kaizen events and 5S programs, by providing data and feedback on quality trends and process capabilities.
  • Collect and analyze quality data to identify trends, track key performance indicators (KPIs), and prepare summary reports for management review.
  • Provide feedback to the purchasing department regarding the quality of materials received from external suppliers.
  • Participate in material review board (MRB) meetings to help determine the disposition of non-conforming products (e.g., use-as-is, rework, scrap).
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment within the quality lab and inspection areas.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Precision Measurement: Mastery of metrology tools including calipers, micrometers, height gauges, bore gauges, and optical comparators.
  • Blueprint & GD&T Literacy: Advanced ability to read and interpret complex engineering drawings, schematics, and geometric dimensioning and tolerancing symbols.
  • CMM Operation: Hands-on experience operating Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMM); programming experience is a significant plus.
  • Quality Management Systems (QMS): Working knowledge of QMS principles and experience with standards like ISO 9001, AS9100, or IATF 16949.
  • Root Cause Analysis: Familiarity with problem-solving methodologies such as 5 Whys, Fishbone Diagrams, or 8D to investigate non-conformances.
  • Technical Documentation: Proficiency in completing detailed inspection reports, First Article Inspection Reports (FAIR), and non-conformance reports (NCRs).
  • Microsoft Office Suite: Competency in using Excel for data entry and analysis, Word for report writing, and Outlook for communication.

Soft Skills

  • Attention to Detail: Exceptional thoroughness and accuracy when performing inspections and completing documentation.
  • Problem-Solving: Strong analytical skills to identify deviations from standards and contribute to finding effective solutions.
  • Communication: Clear and concise verbal and written communication skills to effectively interact with engineers, machinists, and management.
  • Integrity and Objectivity: Unwavering commitment to upholding quality standards and making objective, data-driven decisions.
  • Time Management: Ability to prioritize tasks and manage workload effectively in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent.

Preferred Education:

  • Associate's Degree or a technical certificate in Quality Assurance, Manufacturing Technology, or a related discipline.
  • ASQ Certified Quality Inspector (CQI) certification.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Manufacturing Technology
  • Industrial Engineering
  • Quality Control

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

  • 2-5 years of direct experience as a Quality Inspector in a manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, or medical device environment.

Preferred:

  • 5+ years of experience, including hands-on CMM programming, experience in a highly regulated industry, and a proven track record of participating in root cause analysis and continuous improvement activities.
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