Chief Inspector

Owen Daniels; Gloucester; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Owen Daniels is seeking an experienced Chief Inspector to lead the inspection function across multiple sites in the Gloucester area. You will own inspection standards, methods, and plans, and directly influence first article acceptance and product conformance.

This hands-on role requires strong CMM programming experience with PC-DMIS and the ability to read GD&T drawings, working within aerospace/composites or precision engineering environments.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in senior inspection or metrology roles within manufacturing.
• Strong CMM programming and operation experience.
• Proficiency with PC-DMIS software.
• Ability to read engineering drawings and GD&T.
• Experience with aerospace/composites/precision engineering environments.
• Understanding of AS9100 and ISO9001 standards.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead inspection activities across multiple sites.
• Own inspection standards, methods, procedures and inspection plans.
• Program and operate CMMs using PC-DMIS.
• Perform dimensional and visual inspections on composites and metals.
• Inspect incoming, in-process, and finished assemblies.
• Review drawings, CAD models, specs, and GD&T.
• Approve FAIRs per AS9102.
• Manage Certificates of Conformity and release docs.
• Support Gauge R&R and MSA activities.
• Be first contact for non-conforming products/MRB.
• Support root cause investigations and corrective actions.
• Manage calibration and traceability of equipment.
• Support internal, customer and third-party audits.
• Drive continuous quality improvement and yield.
• Mentor inspection personnel across sites.

Skills

CMM programming

PC-DMIS

Aerospace/Composites exp

GD&T reading

Engineering drawings

Tools

PC-DMIS software

CMM equipment

Job description

Chief Inspector 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

• Leading inspection activities across multiple manufacturing sites
• 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.