QA Inspector

Progress Rail, A Caterpillar Company; Kansas City (MO); On-site; USD 25,000 - 39,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

401(k) with company match

Medical/Dental/Vision/Life insurance

Paid time off and holidays

Job summary

Progress Rail is seeking a QA Inspector in Kansas City, MO to inspect finished and in-process parts such as bearings, wheels, and axles, ensuring conformance to AAR and customer requirements. The role supports reconditioning efforts and collaborates across production teams.

The position requires high school diploma or GED and 1–2 years of experience or technical certifications, with NDT Level I bonus. Strong documentation, blueprints, and gage calibration skills are essential.

Qualifications

• Must have 1–2 years of experience or technical certifications
• Proficient in reading blueprints and gauges
• Knowledge of AAR requirements
• Lead trainer experience and NDT Level I certification
• Ability to maintain quality documentation
• Inspect incoming parts and maintain documentation

Responsibilities

• Inspect finished and in-process products per AAR and customer requirements.
• Document defects and buybacks; work with Traveler’s and QWI’s.
• Read and interpret visual inspection criteria, blueprints, and gauges.
• Conduct audits and inspections for assembly and manufacturing functions.
• Maintain AIMS software for quality actions and training records.
• Review AAR circulars and shop manuals; mentor QA staff.

Skills

Gage calibration

AAR requirements

Blueprint reading

Visual inspection criteria

Quality documentation

NDT Level I Certification

Lead trainer experience

Education

High School or GED

Technical Certifications

Tools

AIMS software

Job description

Job Purpose

The QA Inspector inspects finished and products in process as part of the production process to recondition Bearings, Wheels, and/or Axles according to AAR and customer requirements. Perform other functions or assist in other departments as needed.

Req ID

12221BR

Work Location Options

Kansas City, MO

City

Kansas City

State:

MO

Company Description

Progress Rail stands at the intersection of legacy and innovation—driving the future of rail with a pioneering spirit. Since its founding in 1983, the company has grown to become one of the world’s largest and most trusted providers of railroad products, services, and technologies. Today, Progress Rail delivers a comprehensive portfolio of cost-effective solutions to railway customers around the globe. From the rails themselves to the EMD® locomotives that ride them, the company’s products are in operation across more than 100 countries—powering progress and connecting communities. In 2006, Progress Rail joined Caterpillar Inc., further strengthening its ability to lead the rail industry with cutting‑edge technology, unmatched expertise, and a commitment to excellence. At Progress Rail, the team is not just building the future of rail—they are making history every day.

Key Job Elements

• Demonstrate knowledge of proper gage calibration and color code;
• Conduct product inspection, inbound & outbound, documentation of defects and buybacks;
• Properly work with Traveler’s and Quality Work Instructions (QWI’s);
• Demonstrate knowledge of AAR requirements;
• Ability to read and understand visual inspection criteria, blueprints, and gauges;
• Conduct audits & inspections for assembly & manufacturing functions;
• Able to work well with production and others team members consistently, accurately, and safely.

Education / Training

• High School Education or GED;
• 1-2 years of experience or Technical Certifications

Qualifications And Experience

Advanced duties and responsibilities

• Lead Trainer for new employees;
• Pass Level I NDT (Magnetic Particle) certification;
• Demonstrate the ability to properly complete and maintain quality documentation;
• Demonstrate proper documentation of scrap records (shop specific);
• Review and maintain QWI forms for accuracy and date sensitivity;
• Perform gage internal calibrations;
• Maintain shop specific quality gages for proper calibration;
• Properly fill out subcontractor evaluation forms;
• Perform internal process and product audits;
• Maintain the AIMS software for shop specific Quality action items and training records;
• Review AAR circulars and properly maintain shop specific manuals;
• Inspect incoming parts, review, and maintain necessary documentation;
• Demonstrate proper daily inspection of any shop product;
• Verify shop adherence to Quality specific gage color code system;
• Mentor / Direct any QA Inspector III or II. Responsible of final Quality inspection of parts.

Benefits

• Competitive Salary
• 401(k) plan with up to 6% company match (no waiting period with immediate vesting)
• Medical/Dental/Vision/Life/Disability Insurance
• Supplemental Accident, Critical Care, and Hospital Insurance available along with an HDHP and HSA with seed money
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Paid Vacation
• Paid Holidays
• Paid Time-Off (PTO)
• Employee Assistance Plan
• Education Assistance Program
• Employee Recognition Programs
• Site specific Production and Incentive Plans
• Site specific Step and Skill Level Wage Adjustment Plans
• Site Specific Relocation and Sign-on Bonus Programs
• Benefits eligibility varies by job position, full-time/part-time and regular/temporary status. The provisions of the plan documents control such benefits.

Subject to position, eligibility, and plan guidelines. EEO Progress Rail is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities.

Job Category

Production - Hourly

PRS Facility Location

Kansas City, MO - 465