Chief Inspector

Owen Daniels; Gloucester; On-site; GBP 52,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Owen Daniels, Gloucester-based manufacturer, is seeking a Chief Inspector to lead the inspection function across sites, with occasional travel to Swindon. The role combines hands-on CMM programming and leadership of quality teams to ensure product conformity and AS9100/ISO9001 compliance in a high‑precision aerospace/precision engineering environment.

You will own inspection standards, review drawings, approve FAIRs, manage calibration and MRB activities, and drive continuous improvement and

Qualifications

• Strong experience in senior inspection or metrology roles within manufacturing.
• Proven ability to program and operate CMM equipment.
• Good knowledge of PC-DMIS software.
• Experience inspecting precision components in manufacturing.
• Ability to read engineering drawings and GD&T.

Responsibilities

• Own inspection standards, methods, procedures and plans.
• Program and operate CMM equipment using PC-DMIS.
• Perform dimensional and visual inspections of composite and metallic components.
• Approve FAIRs and manage QA documentation.
• Support MRB, root-cause investigations and CAPA.
• Lead internal and external audits of quality systems.
• Drive continuous quality improvements and first-pass yield.

Skills

CMM programming

PC-DMIS

Quality inspection leadership

GD&T interpretation

Job description

Gloucester Based | Travel to Swindon Site Twice Per Week.

Competitive Salary + Benefits

Full-time, Permanent

Are you an experienced Chief Inspector, Senior Quality Inspector, Lead Inspector or Quality Engineer looking for an opportunity to play a key role within a rapidly growing advanced manufacturing business? Do you have strong CMM programming experience, PC-DMIS knowledge, and a background within aerospace, composites, or precision engineering manufacturing?

We are supporting an innovative manufacturing organisation in their search for a Chief Inspector to join their expanding operation. This is a unique opportunity to take ownership of the inspection function across multiple sites, ensuring the highest standards of quality are maintained as production scales.

As Chief Inspector, you will be the senior authority for inspection activities, taking responsibility for final product acceptance, inspection strategy, and quality compliance. This is a hands-on position where you will remain actively involved in programming and operating CMM equipment while helping shape the future of the inspection department.

Chief Inspector

Job Descriptions

• Owning inspection standards, methods, procedures and inspection plans
• Programming and operating CMM equipment using PC-DMIS software
• Conducting dimensional and visual inspections of composite and metallic components
• Inspecting incoming materials, in-process products and finished assemblies
• Reviewing engineering drawings, CAD models, specifications and GD&T requirements
• Approving First Article Inspection Reports (FAIRs) in line with AS9102 requirements
• Managing Certificates of Conformity and final product release documentation
• Supporting Gauge R&R studies and measurement system analysis activities
• Acting as the first point of contact for non-conforming product and MRB activities
• Supporting root cause investigations and corrective action implementation
• Managing calibration activities and ensuring traceability of inspection equipment
• Supporting internal, customer and third‑party audits
• Driving continuous improvement initiatives focused on quality, efficiency and first-pass yield
• Providing guidance and technical support to inspection personnel across both sites

Chief Inspector

Essential Experience & Qualifications

• Previous experience in a senior inspection, quality inspection or metrology role
• Strong CMM programming and operation experience
• Good working knowledge of PC-DMIS software
• Experience inspecting precision‑engineered components within a manufacturing environment
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and GD&T
• Experience working with CAD models and extracting inspection data
• Familiarity with metrology equipment including CMMs, micrometres, verniers and height gauges
• Understanding of AS9100 and ISO9001 quality standards
• Strong problem‑solving and analytical skills
• Excellent communication skills and confidence working with production and engineering teams
• Ability to maintain quality standards within a fast‑paced manufacturing environment

Due to the nature of the work undertaken, applicants must be eligible to comply with ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations) requirements.