Quality Technician

LTA Research; Mountain View (CA); On-site; USD 52,348 - 63,369; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Company-paid life insurance

Generous PTO + 10 paid holidays

401(k) matching

Lunch and snacks provided

Job summary

LTA Research in Mountain View, California is looking for a Quality Technician responsible for ensuring compliance with engineering specifications and regulatory requirements. The position requires precision measuring tools and strong problem-solving skills, particularly in aerospace quality standards.

The ideal candidate has a degree or certification in a related field and 2+ years of experience in quality inspection. This role is fully onsite and offers a competitive hourly rate between $38 and $46.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in quality inspection, preferably in aerospace.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings.
• Proficiency in performing first article inspections and in‑process inspections.

Responsibilities

• Perform incoming and final inspections on aerospace components.
• Support investigations using Root Cause Analysis and assist in CAPA.
• Collaborate with engineering and manufacturing to resolve quality issues.

Skills

Attention to detail

Problem-solving skills

Knowledge of aerospace quality standards

Education

Associate’s degree in Aerospace Engineering or related field

Tools

Precision measurement tools

AS9100 quality management standards

Job description

Please note: this is a 12‑month contract position.

Quality Technician is responsible for inspecting components and assemblies to ensure compliance with engineering specifications, industry standards, and regulatory requirements. They perform quality audits, document inspection results, and assist in identifying and resolving manufacturing or process defects. The role requires the use of precision measuring instruments, interpretation of technical drawings, and adherence to strict safety and quality procedures. Strong attention to detail, problem‑solving skills, and knowledge of aerospace quality standards are essential for success in this role.

Responsibilities

• Perform incoming, in‑process, and final inspections on aerospace components to ensure compliance with engineering specifications and quality standards
• Support investigations using Root Cause Analysis and assist in implementing corrective and preventive actions (CAPA)
• Collaborate with engineering, manufacturing, and suppliers to resolve quality issues and improve processes
• Monitor production processes to ensure adherence to quality standards and identify opportunities for improvement
• Maintain a clean, organized, and compliant inspection area in line with safety and regulatory requirements
• Initiate NCRs with detailed and accurate descriptions of discrepancies, including reference to drawings, specifications, and inspection results
• This position is fully onsite and requires daily collaboration with production, engineering, and quality teams.
• Document inspection results accurately and maintain detailed quality records and traceability

Qualifications

• Associate’s degree or technical certification in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Technology, or a related field (or equivalent hands‑on experience)
• 2+ years of experience in quality inspection, preferably in aerospace or other highly regulated industries
• Knowledge of AS9100 and general ISO quality systems
• Familiarity with regulatory requirements from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) or similar authorities
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, including Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T)
• Proficiency in using precision measurement tools
• Experience performing first article inspections (FAI), in‑process inspections, and final inspections
• Basic understanding of non‑destructive testing (NDT) methods is a plus
• Strong problem‑solving skills, including use of Root Cause Analysis and corrective action processes (CAPA)
• High attention to detail with strong documentation and record‑keeping skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast‑paced, compliance‑driven environment
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and wiring diagrams
• Working knowledge of avionics systems, including connectors, wire harnesses, and standard testing methods
• Solid understanding of mechanical assemblies, including tolerances and fit requirements
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Must be able to lift 40 pounds and perform essential functions of the position
• Personal mode of transportation required

Preferred Qualifications

• First Article Inspections (FAI)
• In‑process and final inspections
• Non‑destructive testing (NDT) basics
• Six Sigma training
• Working knowledge of AS9100 quality management standards and experience supporting compliance within an aerospace or manufacturing environment

Compliance Requirements

• Background check clearance
• Drug Test clearance wherever applicable

What We Offer!

• Excellent medical, dental, and vision insurance through a PPO plan (100% premium paid for individuals, 70% for dependents)
• Company‑paid life, AD&D, long‑term disability, and short‑term disability insurance
• Parental leave
• Generous PTO + 10 paid holidays
• 401(k) matching up to 6%
• Lunch and snacks provided every day, including accommodations for all dietary restrictions
• Fun events, swag, and the occasional airship ride
• An opportunity to change the world and work with some of the smartest and the most talented experts from different fields

$38 - $46 an hour

LTA Research & Exploration welcomes all candidates to apply including those with limited experience. We understand that candidates with a growth mindset and passion for working on the next chapter in aviation advancement can outweigh experience alone. We celebrate diverse origins and journeys and understand their importance in developing new technology. Rooted in our humanitarian mission, we want to serve the entire globe and have a team that represents those we wish to serve.

Lighter Than Air is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants are considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, marital status, veteran status or any other discriminatory factors prohibited by law.