First Article Quality Inspector - Aerospace Precision

Vanderhorst Brothers, Inc.; Simi Valley, Northern (CA, KY); Hybrid; USD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

RTCA, a precision aerospace and defense manufacturing group, seeks a First Article Quality Inspector for a swing shift in Simi Valley, CA. You will perform dimensional and visual inspections of raw materials, in-process parts, and finished components to ensure adherence to ASME Y14.5 GD&T and customer specs.

The role requires reading blueprints, applying AS9100/ISO 9001 standards, and documenting inspection results.

Qualifications

• Experience in quality inspection within aerospace, precision machining, or manufacturing environments.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, specifications, and technical documentation.
• Working knowledge of AS9100 and/or ISO 9001 quality management systems.
• Familiarity with ASME Y14.5 GD&T.
• Proficiency using standard inspection equipment including micrometers, calipers, bore gauges, height gauges, and related precision tools.
• Understanding of inspection methods, measurement techniques, and basic shop math/trigonometry.
• Ability to accurately complete inspection and quality documentation.
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and problem-solving abilities.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills with the ability to work independently and within cross-functional teams.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and familiarity with ERP/MRP systems.

Responsibilities

• Perform dimensional and visual inspections on raw materials, in-process parts, assemblies, and finished components using precision measurement tools and standard inspection techniques.
• Interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, models, specifications, manufacturing plans, and work instructions in accordance with ASME Y14.5 GD&T requirements.
• Verify product conformity to customer, regulatory, and internal quality requirements including AS9100 and ISO standards.
• Utilize inspection equipment including micrometers, calipers, bore gauges, height gauges, surface plates, optical comparators, and other precision instruments.
• Verify calibration status and proper handling of inspection tools and equipment.
• Complete and maintain accurate inspection records, traceability documentation, range forms, FAIRs, and other quality documentation as required.
• Support or perform First Article Inspection (FAI) activities and AS9102 documentation.
• Identify, document, and communicate nonconforming conditions while collaborating with Production, Engineering, and Quality teams on containment and resolution activities.
• Participate in root cause analysis, corrective actions, preventive actions, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Maintain inspection staging areas, documentation control, and part traceability throughout the inspection process.
• Communicate inspection findings, production status, and quality concerns clearly and professionally to internal teams and customers as needed.
• Support audits, customer visits, and quality system compliance activities when assigned.
• Train, mentor, or provide technical guidance to other inspectors based on experience and level.
• Adhere to all company safety policies and maintain a clean, organized work environment.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Skills

Reading drawings

GD&T (ASME Y14.5)

Quality inspection

Inspection documentation

Attention to detail

Communication

Problem solving

Microsoft Office/ERP

Independent work

Tools

Micrometers

Calipers

Bore gauges

Height gauges

CMM Calypso

Mitutoyo MCOSMOS

Verisurf

Job description

RTCA, a precision aerospace and defense manufacturing group, seeks a First Article Quality Inspector for a swing shift in Simi Valley, CA. You will perform dimensional and visual inspections of raw materials, in-process parts, and finished components to ensure adherence to ASME Y14.5 GD&T and customer specs.

The role requires reading blueprints, applying AS9100/ISO 9001 standards, and documenting inspection results.