Quality Control Specialist (Aerospace / Defense)
We are a well-established CNC machine shop in the New York Metro area seeking an experienced Quality Control Specialist to support precision manufacturing in the aerospace and defense industries. As an ISO 9001:2000 / AS9100 certified facility, quality is at the core of everything we do. This role is responsible for inspecting high-precision CNC-machined parts, ensuring compliance with customer requirements, engineering drawings, and industry standards.
The ideal candidate brings a strong quality background with hands-on inspection experience, including CMM operation, GD&T interpretation, and First Article Inspection reporting.
Key Responsibilities
· Quality Inspection & Verification: Perform in-process and final inspections on CNC-machined components using CMMs, manual inspection tools, and other metrology equipment to verify conformance to specifications.
· CMM Operation & Support: Set up and operate CMM equipment (PC-DMIS or similar software) to inspect complex, high-tolerance parts. Support or modify existing programs as needed to ensure accurate inspections.
· First Article Inspection Reports (FAIRs): Prepare, review, and maintain First Article Inspection Reports to validate that initial production runs meet all dimensional, tolerance, and documentation requirements.
· Blueprint & GD&T Interpretation: Read and interpret detailed engineering drawings and specifications, including GD&T per ASME Y14.5, to ensure accurate inspection results.
· Nonconformance & Problem Resolution: Identify nonconforming conditions, document findings, and collaborate with machining, engineering, and production teams to determine root causes and corrective actions.
· Documentation & Compliance: Maintain accurate inspection records, calibration logs, and quality documentation to support ISO 9001 / AS9100 compliance and customer audits.
· Calibration Oversight: Assist with calibration and verification of CMMs and other inspection equipment to ensure ongoing accuracy and reliability.
· Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with machinists, operators, engineers, and quality personnel to maintain consistent part quality and support on-time delivery.
· Process Improvement: Participate in continuous improvement initiatives by identifying opportunities to improve inspection processes, workflows, and quality controls.
Requirements
· Experience: Minimum of 3 years of experience in a Quality Control, Quality Inspector, or similar role within a CNC manufacturing environment.
· Industry Background: Experience in Aerospace or Defense manufacturing with an understanding of tight tolerances and stringent quality requirements.
· Technical Skills: Strong working knowledge of GD&T (ASME Y14.5) and inspection methodologies. Experience with CMM operation and inspection software such as PC-DMIS.
· Quality Systems: Familiarity with ISO 9001 and AS9100 quality management systems and inspection documentation requirements.
· Equipment Knowledge: Experience inspecting parts produced on CNC lathes, mills, and related equipment.
· Attention to Detail: Exceptional attention to detail and commitment to producing accurate, repeatable inspection results.
· Communication Skills: Ability to clearly document inspection results and communicate quality concerns to cross-functional teams.
· Flexibility: Willingness to work overtime and Saturdays as needed to support production and inspection demands.
Preferred Qualifications
· Experience supporting or reviewing CMM programs
· Background in calibration of precision measurement equipment
· Experience working with late-model CNC equipment (Mori Seiki, Fadal, Star, Flow, Amada, Mitsubishi, etc.)
· Previous involvement in audits or customer quality reviews
Benefits
· Competitive hourly pay based on experience
· 401(k) with company match
· Year-end bonus
· Paid vacation, holidays, and sick time