The Quality Technician independently performs incoming quality control (IQC), outgoing/final quality control (OQC), and quality activities supporting the engineering change (EC) process for fiber laser components and finished products. The position performs inspections, reviews manufacturing and test records, controls nonconforming material, and releases products when documented acceptance requirements are met. The role supports the ISO 9001 quality management system and works closely with Manufacturing, Engineering, Supply Chain, and Operations.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:
- This position has no supervisory responsibilities.
DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Perform incoming quality control (IQC) inspections of optical, fiber-optic, electrical, mechanical, and purchased components against approved drawings, specifications, purchase requirements, and inspection criteria.
- Perform outgoing/final quality control (OQC) inspections of completed fiber laser products before product release and shipment.
- Conduct detailed visual inspections using microscopes, with emphasis on fiber routing and layout, splice protection, cleanliness, workmanship, and installation of fiber‑optic and optical components.
- Inspect electrical and mechanical assemblies, including wiring, connectors, grounding, hardware, and assembly workmanship, against approved drawings and work instructions.
- Review production travelers, build records, test reports, configuration records, deviations, and other required documentation for completeness and acceptance before product release.
- Verify product labels, serial numbers, model and part numbers, electrical ratings, warnings, and compliance markings against approved product documentation and applicable requirements.
- Place incoming material, work‑in‑process, or finished product on quality hold when requirements are not met, and identify, segregate, and control the affected material or product.
- Initiate nonconformance reports (NCRs), participate in NCR review and Material Review Board (MRB) activities, and follow assigned actions through disposition and closure.
- Support the engineering change (EC) process by reviewing quality and inspection impacts, confirming implementation of approved changes, and verifying affected documentation and product configuration.
- Document inspection results and maintain accurate, traceable quality records in the ERP, QMS, or other controlled systems.
- Coordinate with Manufacturing, Engineering, Supply Chain, and Operations to communicate inspection results and resolve quality issues.
- Support calibration verification, internal audits, and continuous improvement activities as assigned.
- Perform product release in accordance with approved procedures and release authority.
- Follow ISO 9001 requirements, company quality procedures, and applicable customer requirements.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
REQUIRED SKILLS/ABILITIES:
- Ability to work independently, exercise sound inspection judgment, and consistently follow controlled procedures.
- Strong attention to detail, organization, and recordkeeping skills.
- Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, bills of material (BOMs), specifications, work instructions, inspection criteria, and engineering change documentation.
- Experience performing microscope‑based inspection and evaluating fiber‑optic routing, workmanship, cleanliness, and component installation.
- Working knowledge of electrical and mechanical assembly inspection.
- Ability to document nonconformances clearly and participate effectively in NCR and MRB review activities.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills and the ability to work effectively with Manufacturing, Engineering, Supply Chain, and Operations.
- Familiarity with ERP or Quality Management System (QMS) records and proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
- High school diploma or GED required; Associate degree, technical certification, or equivalent technical training preferred.
- Minimum of 2 years of quality inspection or manufacturing quality experience in a technical manufacturing environment.
- Experience in fiber lasers, lasers, optics, photonics, electronics, or precision manufacturing is preferred.
- Demonstrated experience working independently in incoming inspection, final inspection, or product release activities is preferred.
- Experience using microscopes and common inspection or measurement equipment.
- Familiarity with ISO 9001 quality systems, nonconformance control, and controlled manufacturing documentation is preferred.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Ability to use fingers for both gross and fine manipulation.
- Ability to reach at or below shoulder level with arms and seize, hold, and grasp objects.
- Near visual acuity is required.
- Ability to lift and/or carry 50 pounds.
- Ability to push or pull objects.
- Ability to sit or stand for extended periods of time.