Lead Quality Inspector

Small Parts; Beaumont (CA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Small Parts, Inc. is seeking a Quality Inspector to maintain layout programs, calibrate gauges, and test parts. You will program inspection routines, perform gage R&R, and manage calibration schedules in a hands-on role that supports pre-launch and production activities.

You will verify vision systems, conduct blueprint interpretation, and ensure products meet drawings and specifications. This role requires attention to detail and strong analytical skills in a team environment.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent with 3 years quality lab experience or training.
• Able to read, write, and speak fluent English.
• Mechanical aptitude and GD&T understanding.
• Read blueprints and measure parts with calipers or micrometers.
• Ability to perform basic math.
• Experience with quality inspections and documentation.

Responsibilities

• Maintain annual layout program, gage calibration, and part testing.
• Program inspection routines into OGPs.
• Manage gage calibration, R&R studies, and outsourced calibration.
• Support pre-launch inspection requirements and provide work instructions.
• Create and run preventive maintenance projects and document results.
• Verify vision system equipment and troubleshoot as needed.
• Develop control plans and setup/work instructions for production staff.
• Conduct supplier audits and assist with corrective actions.
• Support measurements and blueprint interpretation in quality labs.
• Approve materials and finished products per specs; handle rejects and rework.
• Document inspection results and logs; conduct dock audits on shipment items.
• Perform heat treat testing and verify standards.
• Ensure ISO 9001 / IATF / AS9100 compliance and a safe workplace.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Communication

Reading blueprints

GD&T knowledge

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Quality systems

SPC software

Plex ERP

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent; 3 years quality lab experience

Tools

Plex ERP System

SPC software

Job description

JOB SUMMARY

This position maintains the annual layout program (including gage calibration and part testing), monitors the effectiveness of the Small Parts measuring system, and maintains all metrology-related items both internally and externally. It also directly supports and trains employees in Quality Inspection roles.

AN OVERVIEW OF WHAT YOU’LL BE DOING

• Maintains the annual layout program, including gage calibration and part testing.
• Programs inspection routines into the OGPs.
• Maintains calibration and ERP gage control, including Gage R&Rs; performs all internal gage calibration and schedules and prepares outsourced calibration.
• Assists in pre-launch monitoring and work instructions for inspecting product throughout the pre-launch process.
• Creates, performs, and assists in preventive maintenance projects.
• Verifies vision system equipment, and programs, validates, and troubleshoots when necessary.
• Creates control plan checksheets for receiving and production, and creates and controls work instructions for setup and production personnel.
• Performs supplier audits when necessary and assists with corrective actions.
• Assists the Quality labs with measurement methods and blueprint interpretation.
• Approves incoming materials, in-process production, and finished products by confirming specifications and conducting visual and measurement tests; rejects and returns unacceptable materials and confirms rework.
• Documents inspection results by completing reports and logs.
• Conducts final inspections and dock audits on items that are shipping.
• Performs heat treat testing and verification of standards.
• Uses inspection and measurement tools such as Smartscopes, X-Ray machines, force gages, micrometers, calipers, gage pins, gage blocks, height gages, and more, and keeps equipment operating per operating instructions.
• Performs process capability studies and supports statistical analysis.
• Reads and interprets complex blueprints with a working knowledge of GD&T callouts, and ensures new and existing products meet drawing requirements.
• Performs annual scrapping and proper disposal of retains.
• Conducts work in a manner that supports ISO 9001 / IATF / AS9100 standards and maintains a safe and healthy work environment.
• Directly supports employees in a specified area or group within Quality and trains employees in Quality Inspection roles.

SKILLS & ABILITIES

Required

• Alignment with MPI Mission and Values
• Understands and performs to the Small Parts Quality Management System
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Ability and desire to perform accurate work
• Accountable and dependable
• Able to understand work and process instructions
• Ability to work effectively and efficiently with minimal supervision
• Ability to work well with others
• Clear and effective communication skills
• Proficient with a PC, Microsoft Office, and the Plex ERP system
• Good understanding of SPC and the ability to use SPC software

Preferred

• Demonstrated ability to identify and leverage employee strengths
• Experience providing positive recognition and coaching to employees
• Proven team-building and leadership skills

QUALIFICATIONS

• High School Diploma or equivalent; 3 years’ quality lab experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Ability and desire to problem solve and carry out instructions
• Able to read, write, and speak fluent English
• Mechanical aptitude
• Able to read blueprints and understands GD&T
• Ability to accurately complete basic mathematics functions
• Ability to measure parts with calipers, micrometers, or various job-specific gages