Quality Inspector

Whelan Machine; Louisville (KY); On-site; USD 55,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Whelan Machine & Tool in Louisville, KY, is seeking a Quality Inspector to perform incoming, in-process, and final inspections of machined and fabricated components. You will verify conformance to engineering drawings, customer specs, and AS9100 requirements, and maintain accurate inspection records.

Responsibilities include validating certificates of conformance, identifying nonconformances, and supporting MRB dispositions.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; associate degree or technical certification in quality, machining, or manufacturing preferred.
• 2–4 years of quality inspection experience in a precision manufacturing environment; aerospace or defense inspection experience strongly preferred.
• Experience with AS9100-compliant quality systems preferred.
• Proficiency reading engineering drawings, blueprints, and GD&T per ASME Y14.5.
• Skilled use of precision measuring instruments and basic CMM operation.
• Working knowledge of inspection sampling methods, SPC basics, and nonconformance documentation.

Responsibilities

• Inspect incoming material and components against certifications, drawings, and specifications.
• Conduct in-process and final inspection of machined, welded, and assembled parts using precision instruments.
• Review Certificates of Conformance and process certifications for completeness and accuracy.
• Document inspection records, travelers, and FAI reports per quality system procedures.
• Identify nonconforming material; initiate NCRs and support MRB disposition.
• Support internal audits, customer source inspections, and ITAR-related handling requirements.

Skills

Reading drawings

Precision instruments

CMM operation

SPC basics

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Associate degree or technical certification

Tools

CMM

Micrometers

Calipers

Gauge blocks

Job description

Attention! Now Hiring …Looking forward to your next big opportunity?Whelan Machine is growing, and we want YOU to join our team!We’re proud to be part of the Department of Defense (DoD) and offer you a chance to work in an exciting, fast-paced industry.Supporting the mission with world-class precision is at the heart of what we do.Whelan Machineis a mission-critical supplier of high-precision machining for the U.S defense industrial base. We offer quarterly incentive pay and the opportunity to work in our new and improved 70,000-square foot facility!Competitive payGreat benefitsQuarterly incentive paysA workplace that values YOUR skill and growthBe part of the DoD and helping make a differenceSupporting the mission with world-class precisionBrand-new 70,000 sq. ft. facilityOur mission is to build a world-class team of skilled professionals, and we want YOU to be a part of it.If you're in Louisville or nearby, don't miss this opportunity!Apply today and become part of the Whelan family.POSITION SUMMARYThe Quality Inspector performs incoming, in-process, and final inspection of machined and fabricated components to verify conformance to engineering drawings, customer specifications, and contractual quality requirements. This role in responsible for maintaining accurate inspection records, identifying nonconformances, and upholding the traceability and documentation standards required of a qualified defense supplier.KEY RESPONSIBILITIESInspection ActivitiesPerform incoming inspection of raw material and purchased components against certifications, drawings, and specifications.Conduct in-process and final inspection of machined, welded, and assembled parts using precision measuring instruments (micrometers, calipers, height gauges, gauge blocks, thread/plug gauges).Operate and interpret results from a Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) or other automated inspection equipment, where applicable.Verify dimensional accuracy, surface finish, and GD&T callouts against engineering drawings and revision-controlled documents.Review and validate Certificates of Conformance, material certs, and special process certifications (heat treat, NDT, plating, welding) for completeness and accuracy.Documentation and ComplianceComplete inspection records, travelers, and first-article inspection (FAI) reports in accordance with quality system procedures and AS9102 requirements where applicable.Identify, tag, and document nonconforming material; initiate Nonconformance Reports (NCRs) and support Material Review Board (MRB) disposition.Maintain calibration awareness of assigned gauges and measuring equipment; flag out-of-calibration or damaged equipment for removal from service.Support internal audits, customer source inspections, and CMMC/ITAR-related handling requirements for controlled technical data.Maintain accurate, organized inspection records to support quality system audits and customer traceability requests.Continuous ImprovementParticipate in root-cause and corrective-action (CAPA) activities related to inspection findings and recurring nonconformances.Recommend improvements to inspection methods, sampling plans, or gauge selection to improve accuracy and throughput.Collaborate with Production, Manufacturing Engineering, and Quality Engineering to resolve dimensional or process-related issues.QualificationsRequiredHigh school diploma or equivalent; associate degree or technical certification in quality, machining, or manufacturing technology preferred.2–4 years of quality inspection experience in a precision manufacturing environment; aerospace or defense inspection experience strongly preferred.Experience with AS9100-compliant quality systems preferred.Proficiency reading engineering drawings, blueprints, and GD&T per ASME Y14.5.Skilled use of precision measuring instruments and basic CMM operation.Working knowledge of inspection sampling methods, statistical process control (SPC) basics, and nonconformance documentation.Strong attention to detail and ability to accurately document findings under time pressure.Basic computer proficiency for entering inspection data into ERP or quality management systemsMust qualify as a U.S. Person under ITAR (22 CFR 120.15) due to access to export-controlled technical data.PHYSICAL & ITAR REQUIREMENTSAccess to ITAR-controlled technical data and CUI requires verification of U.S. Person status prior to employment.Ability to stand for extended periods on a manufacturing floor; regularly lift and carry up to 35 lbs.; frequent bending, reaching, and use of hand tools; use of appropriate PPE (safety glasses, hearing protection, steel-toe footwear) at all times on the production floor. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.This position is performed on the Whelan Machine & Tool production floor, a manufacturing environment with exposure to machine noise, cutting fluids, and moving equipment. Standard shift schedules apply; overtime may be required to support production and delivery commitments.Whelan Machine & Tool, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status. This position requires access to information subject to U.S. export control regulations (ITAR/EAR); employment is contingent upon verification of U.S. Person status.