Machine Shop First Article Inspector

Applied Medical; Rancho Santa Margarita (CA); On-site; USD 26,174 - 41,328; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

Comprehensive benefits package

Education reimbursement program

Job summary

A medical device company in California is seeking a First Article Inspector to support engineering and machining operations. Responsibilities include verifying component quality, performing inspections using precision tools, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. The ideal candidate will have experience in dimensional inspections and the ability to interpret engineering drawings. Competitive compensation is offered, with additional benefits including mentorship and education reimbursement.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience in dimensional inspections in manufacturing.
• One year or more in inspection or quality control.
• Ability to interpret blueprints and tolerances.

Responsibilities

• Inspect components using precision measuring tools.
• Generate clear and accurate inspection reports.
• Communicate findings with engineering and quality teams.

Skills

Dimensional inspections

Interpret blueprint dimensions

Attention to detail

Interpersonal skills

Tools

Coordinate measuring machine (CMM)

Micrometers

Calipers

Job description

Applied Medical is a new generation medical device company with a proven business model and commitment to innovation fueled by rapid business growth and expansion. Our company has been developing and manufacturing advanced surgical technologies for over 35 years and has earned a strong reputation for excellence in the healthcare field. Our unique business model, combined with our dedication to delivering the highest quality products, enables team members to contribute in a larger capacity than is possible in typical positions.

Position Description

Position Overview

The Machine Shop First Article Inspector supports Applied Medical’s engineering and machining operations by verifying that components, tooling, and fixtures meet defined dimensional and quality requirements prior to production release. This role plays a critical part in ensuring manufacturing readiness, regulatory compliance, and product quality by performing first article inspections in accordance with quality system regulations. The first article inspector works closely with engineering, machining, and quality teams to validate design intent and communicate inspection results clearly.

Key Responsibilities

• Inspect components, tooling, and fixtures using coordinate measuring machines (CMM), gauges, calipers, comparators, and other precision measuring tools to verify conformance to engineering drawings and specifications.
• Interpret blueprint dimensions, tolerances, and inspection requirements to determine appropriate inspection methods.
• Generate clear and accurate inspection reports documenting results, methods used, and any nonconformances identified.
• Communicate inspection results and findings with engineering, machining, and quality teams to support design validation and process readiness.
• Perform first article inspections within defined time frames while maintaining accuracy and documentation quality.
• Comply with quality system regulations, International Organization for Standardization standards, standard operating procedures, work rules, and safety guidelines.
• Maintain effective written communication through emails, reports, and memorandums related to inspection activities.

Success in This Role Looks Like

• Delivering accurate and timely first article inspection results that support engineering validation and production release.
• Ensuring inspection methods are appropriate, repeatable, and clearly documented.
• Maintaining strong collaboration with engineering and machining teams to resolve dimensional or specification issues.
• Demonstrating attention to detail when verifying tight tolerance features and complex geometries.
• Supporting a compliant, efficient, and quality focused manufacturing environment.

Position Requirements

This position requires the following skills and attributes:

• Demonstrated experience performing dimensional inspections in a manufacturing or machine shop environment.
• One year or more of work experience related to inspection or quality control activities.
• Proven ability to interpret blueprint dimensions and tolerance requirements.
• Experience holding and verifying tolerances up to .0001”.
• Familiarity with precision measuring instruments including micrometers, calipers, gage pins, comparators, and indicators.
• Working knowledge of machining instructions, quality system regulations, International Organization for Standardization standards, standard operating procedures, work rules, and safety guidelines.
• Ability to read, write, and speak in English for effective communication and documentation.
• Ability to lift fifty pounds on occasion.
• Strong interpersonal skills and a technical, hands‑on approach to inspection activities.

Preferred

The following skills and attributes are preferred:

• One or more years of experience performing first article inspections in a manufacturing environment.
• Experience using coordinate measuring machine equipment.
• Background in medical device manufacturing or other regulated manufacturing environments.
• Knowledge of mold making or tool and die processes.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation range: $19 - $30 / hour (California).
• Comprehensive benefits package.
• Training and mentorship opportunities.
• On‑campus wellness activities.
• Education reimbursement program.
• 401(k) program with discretionary employer match.
• Generous vacation accrual and paid holiday schedule.

Please note that the compensation range may be adjusted in the future, and bonus and incentive compensation plans may apply.

Our total reward package reflects our commitment to employee growth and well‑being, as we invest in your development and offer a range of benefits designed to enhance your career and life.

All compensation and benefits are subject to plan documents and written agreements.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Applied Medical is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), or sexual orientation, or any other status protected by federal, state or local laws in the locations where Applied Medical operates.