Quality Inspector I - 1st Shift

Howmet Aerospace Inc.; Fullerton (CA); On-site; USD 32,000 - 36,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

401k matching

Paid holidays

Vacation

Job summary

Howmet Aerospace Inc. is seeking a Quality Assurance Inspector for aerospace machining. The role ensures machined parts meet strict customer specs, aerospace standards, and regulatory requirements, contributing to safety and reliability in production.

You will read complex drawings, perform in-process inspections, document findings, and support CAPA initiatives. The position requires attention to detail, strong measurement skills, and familiarity with AS9100/AS9102 and GD&T.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• 1+ years in machining inspection in a manufacturing environment (aerospace preferred).
• 1+ years using precise measurement equipment including calipers, micrometers, dial indicators, height gauges, surface plates, optical comparators, thread gauges, plug gauges, surface roughness testers.

Responsibilities

• Inspect machined components using precision tools and verify dimensions, tolerances and finishes.
• Read and interpret complex aerospace drawings (GD&T per ASME Y14.5).
• Prepare and maintain inspection reports and nonconformance documentation.
• Perform in-process inspections during machining operations and verify setups and process parameters.
• Review material certifications, heat treatment records, and ensure traceability.

Skills

Attention to detail

Reading complex blueprints

GD&T understanding

Manufacturing experience

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

CMM

Calipers

Micrometers

Dial indicators

Height gauges

Surface plates

Optical comparators

Thread gauges

Plug gauges

Surface roughness testers

Job description

• Job Schedule Full time
• Export-Controlled Data This position entails access to export-controlled items and employment offers are conditioned upon an applicant's ability to lawfully obtain access to such items

Responsibilities

Quality Assurance Inspector - Aerospace Machining

Role Summary

A Quality Assurance (QA) Inspector in aerospace machining ensures that precision machined parts meet strict aerospace standards, customer specifications, and regulatory requirements. This role is critical for safety, compliance, and product reliability in aerospace manufacturing.

Key Responsibilities

• Inspection & Measurement
  • Inspect machined components using precision tools (calipers, micrometers, height gauges, bore gauges, CMM)
  • Verify dimensions, tolerances, and surface finishes against engineering drawings and specifications
• Read and interpret complex aerospace drawings (GD&T per ASME Y14.5)
• Ensure compliance with customer and industry standards (AS9100, NADCAP, FAA requirements)
• Documentation & Reporting
  • Complete inspection reports, First Article Inspections (FAI) per AS9102
  • Maintain accurate quality records and traceability documentation
  • Document nonconformances and support corrective actions
• Process Verification
  • Perform in-process inspections during machining operations
  • Verify setups, tooling, and process parameters
• Material & Certification Review
  • Check material certifications, heat treatment records, and special process documentation
  • Ensure full traceability of aerospace components
• Nonconformance Handling
  • Identify defects and segregate nonconforming parts
  • Participate in root cause analysis and corrective/preventive actions (CAPA)

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED
• 1+ years in machining inspection experience within a manufacturing environment (aerospace preferred)
• 1+ years of using precise measurement equipment including, but not limited to Calipers, micrometers, dial indicators, Height gauges, surface plates, Optical comparators, Thread gauges, plug gauges, Surface roughness testers

Preferred Qualifications:

• ASQ certification (CQI)
• Experience with FAI (AS9102) strongly preferred
• Strong understanding of:
  • GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing)
  • Aerospace quality standards (AS9100, AS9102)
• Proficiency with:
  • CMM (Coordinate Measuring Machines)
  • Inspection tools (manual and digital)
• Knowledge of:
  • Machining processes (CNC milling, turning, grinding)
  • Materials used in aerospace (aluminum, titanium, Inconel, etc.)
• Attention to detail and high level of accuracy
• Ability to read complex blueprints and specs
• Manufacturing or machine shop floor
• Controlled environments
• Requires standing, handling parts, and working with precision instruments

Benefits/Salary:

The position includes competitive wages and a comprehensive benefits package available day one of hire, including health insurance (medical, dental, vision), excellent 401k matching program, paid holidays and vacation. Howmet Aerospace curates a strong working environment through opportunities for career progression, community engagement activities, and flexible schedules contingent upon role and location. The salary range for this position $23.00 - $26.00 per hour.

About Us

Howmet Aerospace Inc. (NYSE: HWM), headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a leading global provider of advanced engineered solutions for the aerospace and transportation industries. Our primary businesses focus on jet engine components, aerospace fastening systems, titanium structural parts and forged wheels. With $8.3 Billion in revenue in 2025, our products play a crucial role in enabling fuel efficiency and lightweighting, contributing to our customers’ success and making a positive impact on the world. To learn more about the way Howmet Aerospace Inc. is advancing the sustainability of our customers, markets, and communities where we operate, review the 2025 Environmental Social and Governance report at www.howmet.com/esg-report . Follow: LinkedIn , Twitter , Instagram , Facebook , and YouTube .

Equal Opportunity Employer:

Howmet is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.

Howmet Fastening Systems (HFS) is a business unit of Howmet Aerospace, headquartered in Torrance, California. We hold the number one global position in aerospace fastening systems, and we're the North American leader in commercial transportation fasteners. Our high-tech, multi-material fastening systems are found nose to tail on aircraft and aerospace engines. Our products are also critical components of industrial gas turbines, automobiles, commercial transportation vehicles, and construction and industrial equipment.