Mechanical Inspector, Receiving Inspection

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc.; Poway (CA); On-site; USD 52,020 - 77,325; Full time

Job summary

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. in Poway, CA is seeking a Mechanical Inspector – Receiving Inspection to inspect hardware against drawings, specs, and inspection plans. You will interpret GD&T and perform or review CMM inspections, review supplier documentation, and verify FAI packages for completeness.

Join a aerospace/defense manufacturing environment and support audits while maintaining compliance with AS9100 and DoD security requirements.

Qualifications

• Associate degree or trade certificate in quality inspections or equivalent.
• One+ years in aerospace, defense, or metrology inspection.
• AS9100 experience regarding inspection records and traceability.
• GD&T interpretation and dimensional inspection proficiency.
• DoD security clearance eligibility required.

Responsibilities

• Perform dimensional and visual inspection of machined, fabricated, and supplier hardware per drawings and inspection plans.
• Interpret GD&T and review CMM inspections and reports as needed.
• Review supplier documentation, including certificates of conformance and test reports.
• Verify FAI packages for completeness and accuracy.
• Support local source inspections at suppliers and audits with accurate records.
• Identify nonconformances and escalate as required.
• Assist audits and maintain confidentiality and safety compliance.
• Inspect tooling and gauges and interface with all levels of staff.

Skills

GD&T interpretation

CMM inspections

AS9100 knowledge

DoD security clearance

FAI (First Article Inspection)

Education

Associate degree or trade certificate

Tools

SAP/QMS

CMM inspection

Job description

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA‑ASI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a world leader in proven, reliable remotely piloted aircraft and tactical reconnaissance radars, as well as advanced high‑resolution surveillance systems. We have an exciting opportunity for a Mechanical Inspector – Receiving Inspection to join our Poway, CA team. This position inspects parts, assemblies, tooling, fixtures, and materials to ensure compliance with customer, engineering, and quality requirements in an aerospace/defense manufacturing environment.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Perform complex dimensional and visual inspection of machined, fabricated, and supplier‑provided hardware using engineering drawings, specifications, purchase order requirements, and inspection plans.
• Interpret GD&T and use precision measuring equipment; perform or review CMM inspections and reports as needed.
• Review supplier documentation, including certificates of conformance, material and special process certifications, test reports, and dimensional records.
• Review and verify AS9102 First Article Inspection (FAI) packages for completeness, characteristic accountability, revision accuracy, and objective evidence.
• Support Local Source Inspection at suppliers or alternate locations, representing the company professionally and following approved work instructions.
• Distinguish true nonconformances from documentation issues and escalate per procedures.
• Support internal, customer, regulatory, and quality system audits with accurate inspection records.
• Inspect or verify tooling, fixtures, gauges, and inspection aids when required.
• Comply with company procedures, safety and quality requirements, and applicable regulations; maintain confidentiality of sensitive information.
• Work independently or in a team and support overtime, priority inspections, alternate work locations, and supplier visits as needed.
• Good communication skills to effectively interface with all levels of employees including management.

We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.

Qualifications

• Typically requires an associate’s degree, trade school certificate, military training or equivalent in quality inspections or certification by a professional group such as ASQ or AWS, and one or more years of progressive experience in electrical, mechanical, electromechanical or metrology inspection and calibration. May substitute additional experience in lieu of formal education and training.
• Progressive experience in aerospace, defense, mechanical, dimensional, or receiving inspection.
• Strong knowledge of AS9100 requirements related to inspection, acceptance records, traceability, calibration, and nonconforming material control.
• Proficiency in GD&T interpretation and dimensional inspection methods.
• Ability to obtain and maintain DoD Security Clearance required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with AS9102, SAP/QMS, and CMM inspection.
• SQ, AWS, AS9102, GD&T, DFARS, Mil‑STD or equivalent quality/inspection certifications.
• Experience with ISO 9001, quality assurance program requirements and ASME Y14.5 are desirable.

Job Type: Full‑Time Hourly

Salary range: $52,020 - $77,325