Quality Inspector

Gradel Professional Search; Raleigh (NC); On-site; USD 52,000 - 76,000; Full time

Job summary

Gradel Professional Search is seeking a detail-oriented quality assurance inspector to verify incoming materials, in-process subassemblies, and finished components meet engineering drawings and customer specifications. Reporting to the Quality Manager, you will collaborate with shop floor teams on receiving, first article, in-process, audit, and final shipping inspections.

The role emphasizes precise measurement using micrometers, calipers, depth gauges, CMMs and optical comparators, with focus

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED equivalency.
• 2 to 3 years of hands-on quality inspection experience in a precision manufacturing or machining environment.
• Ability to read, interpret, and analyze complex engineering blueprints and drawings.
• Solid shop math, GD&T, and practical measurement techniques.
• Fluency in verbal and written English with clear documentation of findings.
• Computer literacy with standard desktop software (e.g., Microsoft Excel).
• Self-directed work in a dynamic, deadline-driven setting.

Responsibilities

• Execute receiving, first-article (FAI), in-process, audit, and final pre-shipment inspections.
• Verify dimensions and visuals against blueprints, travelers, and client requirements.
• Use handheld tools (micrometers, calipers, depth gauges) and CMM/optical fixtures.
• Maintain calibration status and log inspection results in software/spreadsheets.
• Provide timely feedback on out-of-spec findings to operators and leaders.
• Assist root-cause investigations and CAPA activities to prevent defects.
• Collaborate with production to align quality expectations and improve procedures.

Job description

We are seeking a detail-oriented quality assurance inspector to verify that incoming materials, in-process subassemblies, and finished manufactured components adhere to engineering drawings, customer specifications, and internal quality standards. Reporting directly to the Quality Manager, this role works collaboratively with shop floor teams to perform receiving, first-article, in-process, audit, and final shipping inspections.

Key Responsibilities

Inspection & Dimensional Verification:

• Execute comprehensive receiving, first-article (FAI), in-process, floor audit, and final pre-shipment inspections.
• Verify component dimensions and visual characteristics against engineering blueprints, job travelers, and client requirements.
• Utilize standard precision handheld tools, including handheld micrometers, digital calipers, depth gauges, and specialty inspection fixtures.
• Setup and operate advanced inspection equipment, such as optical comparators and Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMM).
• Identify and quarantine non-conforming materials in according with non-conformance and disposition protocols.

Quality Records & Calibration Maintenance:

• Generate detailed First Article Inspection Reports (FAIR) complying with standardized industry formats.
• Log accurate inspection results, non-conformance records, and quality metrics within internal software and tracking spreadsheets.
• Ensure full component lot traceability across all stages of production.
• Assist with the care, calibration, and maintenance of plant measurement equipment and verify tool calibration status prior to use.
• Provide timely, clear feedback regarding inspection findings, out-of-spec dimensions, and drawing requirements to machine operators and department leaders.
• Assist in root-cause investigations for quality deviations and support preventive/corrective action efforts (CAPA).
• Work alongside production teams to clarify quality expectations and prevent recurring defects.
• Recommend improvements to streamlined inspection procedures, tooling, and quality documentation.

Workplace Safety & Standards:

• Maintain a clean, safe, and well-organized quality laboratory/inspection station.
• Adhere strictly to personal protective equipment (PPE) guidelines and general safety policies.
• Handle finished components and sensitive inspection equipment with care to prevent damage or surface contamination.

Qualifications

Required:

• High School Diploma or GED equivalency.
• 2 to 3 years of hands-on quality inspection experience within a precision manufacturing or machining environment.
• Strong ability to read, interpret, and analyze complex engineering blueprints and technical drawings.
• Solid working knowledge of shop math, geometric dimensions, and practical measurement techniques.
• Fluency in verbal and written English with a strong ability to document findings clearly.
• Computer literacy, including proficiency with standard desktop software and spreadsheet tools (e.g., Microsoft Excel).
• Ability to perform self-directed work in a dynamic, deadline-driven manufacturing environment.

Preferred Experience:

• Direct experience compiling formal First Article Inspection Reports (FAIR) following industry standards (e.g., AS9102 or equivalent).
• Hands-on experience operating CMM systems, CMM software programs, and optical measurement devices.
• Familiarity operating within certified quality management systems (e.g., ISO 9001, AS9100, or IATF 16949).
• Strong mechanical aptitude, high precision, and disciplined attention to detail.

Work Environment & Expectations

Location:

On-site position reporting to the Quality Manager.

Requirements:

Regular on-site attendance to support active floor operations and customer delivery schedules.