First Article Inspector & Quality Gatekeeper

Watlow; Maryland Heights (MO); On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

Watlow is seeking a Technician I for First Article Inspection (FAI) to ensure customer drawings and specifications are met before release. The role focuses on FAI reports, engineering drawing review, and clear customer communication, functioning as a critical quality gatekeeper in a manufacturing environment.

Qualifications include a two-year degree or technical certificate (or 3-5 years of experience), proficiency with MS Office, and strong attention to detail.

Qualifications

• Two-year degree or technical certificate, or 3-5 years of relevant experience.
• Experience working in a manufacturing environment with technical products.
• Ability to read and accurately interpret engineering drawings.
• Basic understanding of electrical concepts (training provided).
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Outlook and Teams.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Experience with SolidWorks is a plus.
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to multitask.
• Associate's degree preferred.
• Ability to work effectively with multiple teams and interact with customers as needed.

Responsibilities

• Perform First Article Inspections (FAI) to verify product compliance with customer drawings and specifications.
• Exercise discernment in identifying order-specific FAI requirements.
• Execute testing, inspection, and evaluation of products and manufacturing processes per defined standards and procedures.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (CFT) to resolve discrepancies and support technical issues.
• Ensure products meet all quality and compliance requirements prior to release.
• Complete assigned tasks in accordance with documented procedures and work instructions with minimal supervision.
• Assist with calibration activities and receiving inspection processes as needed.
• Follow all organizational and departmental safety policies and procedures at all times.
• Serve as the quality and compliance Gate-assertive, thorough, and detail-oriented in decision-making.
• Effectively manage fluctuating and high-volume workloads.

Skills

Reading engineering drawings

Microsoft Office

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Attention to detail

Education

Two-year degree or technical certificate

Associate's degree preferred

Tools

SolidWorks

Job description

Watlow is seeking a Technician I for First Article Inspection (FAI) to ensure customer drawings and specifications are met before release. The role focuses on FAI reports, engineering drawing review, and clear customer communication, functioning as a critical quality gatekeeper in a manufacturing environment.

Qualifications include a two-year degree or technical certificate (or 3-5 years of experience), proficiency with MS Office, and strong attention to detail.