Freelance First Article Inspector Jobs in California

Description:

Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced CMM Programmer / Quality Inspector to support aerospace manufacturing and quality assurance activities. This position is responsible for programming and operating Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMMs), performing mechanical inspections, conducting First Article Inspections (FAIs), and ensuring products conform to engineering, customer, regulatory, and internal quality requirements.

The ideal candidate possesses strong GD&T knowledge, proficiency in CMM programming software, and experience working within AS9100 aerospace quality systems. This role requires a high degree of accuracy, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently while supporting production and quality objectives.

Requirements:

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

•Program, operate, and maintain Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMMs), including Mitutoyo CMM equipment.

•Create, validate, and optimize CMM programs using MCOSMOS, PC-DMIS, or equivalent software.

•Review engineering drawings, models, specifications, and customer requirements to develop inspection strategies.

•Interpret blueprints, Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T), and technical documentation to perform dimensional inspections.

•Perform First Article Inspections (FAI’s), in-process inspections, receiving inspections, and final inspections in accordance with AS9102, customer requirements, and internal procedures.

•Perform mechanical inspections using precision measuring equipment including calipers, micrometers, height gauges, bore gauges, thread gauges, indicators, and other inspection tools.

•Document inspection results and maintain accurate quality records in accordance with AS9100, customer requirements, and company procedures.

•Prepare and review First Article Inspection Reports (FAIRs) and associated documentation packages.

•Operate and monitor one or more CMMs while performing additional inspection activities as required.

•Troubleshoot dimensional measurement discrepancies and collaborate with engineering and production personnel to resolve issues.

•Support root cause investigations and corrective actions related to dimensional nonconformances.

•Verify calibration status of inspection equipment prior to use and ensure equipment remains compliant with calibration requirements.

•Assist with internal audits, customer audits, and quality system activities as required.

•Participate in continuous improvement initiatives to improve inspection efficiency and measurement system effectiveness.

•Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.

•Comply with all company policies, procedures, safety requirements, and quality management system requirements.

Qualifications and Skills

Required

•Minimum 5 years of experience in precision machining, aerospace manufacturing, or a related manufacturing environment.

•Minimum 3 years of hands-on CMM programming experience.

•1st and 2nd Shifts available.

•Proficient in blueprint reading, GD&T interpretation, and dimensional inspection techniques.

•Experience programming CMMs using MCOSMOS, PC-DMIS, Calypso, or equivalent software platforms.

•Experience performing AS9102 First Article Inspections and preparing FAIR documentation.

•Working knowledge of AS9100 quality management system requirements.

•Familiarity with ERP and Quality Management Systems (QMS).

•Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.

•Ability to prioritize workload and manage multiple inspection activities simultaneously.

•Excellent attention to detail, organization, and communication skills.

•Ability to work independently and as part of a cross-functional team.

Preferred

•Experience with Mitutoyo Crysta-Apex or similar CMM platforms.

•Knowledge of CNC machining processes and manufacturing methods.

•Experience reviewing customer specifications and aerospace quality requirements.

•Understanding of measurement uncertainty and metrology best practices.

Education

•High School Diploma or equivalent required.

•Technical certification, vocational training, or Associate Degree in Manufacturing Technology, Quality Assurance, Metrology, Engineering Technology, or a related field preferred.

Physical Requirements

•Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.

•Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds occasionally.

•Ability to use precision inspection equipment requiring fine motor skills and visual acuity.

•Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with exposure to machine noise and moving equipment.

ITAR Compliance Requirements

•Must be a U.S. Person as defined by ITAR (U.S. Citizen, U.S. Permanent Resident, or protected individual under 8 U.S.C. §1324b(a)(3)).

•Responsible for handling and safeguarding export-controlled technical data in accordance with ITAR regulations and company policies.

•Required to complete ITAR training and adhere to all export compliance procedures.