Vehicle QA Inspector (Rail)

Va Inc; Palmdale, Northern (CA, KY); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Virginkar & Associates, Inc. (VAI) seeks a Vehicle Test Engineer for Palmdale, CA to perform technical inspections and test witnessing for HRV commissioning, ensuring compliance with contract documents, railroad policy and federal/state regulations.

You will witness department testing, perform QA/QC inspections, review carshells and drawings, and prepare documentation with photos and digital records. Strong written and oral communication is required.

Qualifications

• 3–10 years of QA / Heavy Rail project experience.
• Technical schooling or community college or equivalent.
• Engineering degree is a plus.
• QA/QC background in manufacturing or rail environment.
• Ability to read and interpret work instructions and drawings.
• Proficient with MS Word, Excel and Outlook.
• Excellent communication skills (oral and written).
• Familiarity with Railroad and Transit Industry Standards.
• High ethical standards and teamwork.

Responsibilities

• Witness Test Department testing and oversee internal testing.
• Witness water testing, static and dynamic functional testing.
• Perform QA/QC inspections throughout assembly process (in-process, FAI, welding, mechanical, electrical).
• Review carshells, truck frames and vehicle assemblies.
• Interpret plans and contract documents for compliance with the work.
• Communicate with prime consultant on non-conformance and status.
• Review contractor’s work plans, drawings and test procedures.
• Witness and audit pre-delivery and acceptance tests.
• Prepare documentation with photos and maintain organized files.

Skills

QA Experience

Rail Vehicle

Test Witnessing

Documentation

Education

Technical School/Community College

Engineering Degree a plus

Tools

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Outlook

Job description

About the Role

Virginkar & Associates, Inc. (VAI) is seeking a Vehicle Test Engineer for project work in Palmdale, CA. Candidate will perform technical inspections and test witnessing for the Commissioning of HRVs (Heavy Rail Vehicles) to ensure compliance and conformance with contract documents, railroad policy and federal/state regulations. Must have prior Rail Vehicle experience as it pertains to the project, and extensive working knowledge of HRVs or either LRVs (Light Rail Vehicles), and/or Commuter Rail Vehicles.

Key Responsibilities

• Witness Test Department testing, including witness and oversight for internal testing.

• Witness water testing, static and dynamic functional testing.

• Perform Quality Assurance and Quality Control inspections and testing including but not limited to in-process, FAI, welding, mechanical and electrical inspections throughout the assembly process.

• Review carshells, truck frames and vehicle assemblies.

• Interpreting plans, specifications, and other contract documents for compliance with the work.

• Communicating with prime consultant for non-TS conformance, engineering issues, status of approval, test witnessing and/or status, etc.

• Reviewing contractor’s work plans, drawings and installation procedures and test procedures.

• Witness and audit pre-delivery and acceptance tests.

• Preparing and submitting proper documentation upon completion of inspections, including electronic records and digital photographs, and maintaining file management and organization.

• Punctuality and responsiveness to emails, texts, and phone calls.

Qualifications

• 3-10 years of Quality Assurance / Heavy Rail Project experience.

• Technical School or Community College or equivalent job experience.

• Engineering Degree a plus.

• QC/QA background in manufacturing environment.

• Ability to read and interpret work instructions and drawings.

• Ability to create MS Word documents and embed photos with clear and concise descriptions.

• Must be computer literate and proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook.

• Excellent oral, written and interpersonal communication skills.

• Familiarity with the Railroad and Transit Industry Standards.

• High ethical standards, attention to detail, and commitment to team collaboration.

Why VAI?

We offer dynamic, impactful work on transportation projects across the U.S. and abroad. Our team is known for professionalism, technical excellence, and commitment to diversity and inclusion. VAI provides competitive compensation, a full benefits package, and an inclusive workplace culture where your contributions are valued. Salary is commensurate with education, experience, and location.

Equal Opportunity Employer

VAI is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. We are committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and ensuring equal opportunity for all applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, gender, age, national origin, disability, or any other protected status.