Optical Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Job Title: Quality Inspector

Job Description

The Quality Inspector performs first article, in-process, and final inspections on machined aerospace components to ensure they meet strict quality and regulatory standards. This role uses precision measurement tools and detailed engineering documentation to verify product conformity and supports production teams in maintaining a high level of quality throughout the manufacturing process.

Responsibilities

• Perform first article inspections on machined aerospace components to verify that initial production parts meet all specified requirements.
• Conduct in-process inspections during machining operations to ensure parts remain within tolerance and conform to engineering specifications.
• Carry out final inspections on completed machined parts to confirm they meet all dimensional, visual, and documentation requirements before release.
• Utilize precision measuring tools, including calipers, bore gages, micrometers, height gauges, coordinate measuring machines (CMM), and optical equipment to verify part dimensions and features.
• Read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, and GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing) specifications to determine inspection criteria and acceptance standards.
• Ensure all inspection activities comply with AS9100 and ISO 9001 quality management system requirements.
• Document inspection results accurately and maintain records in accordance with quality procedures and regulatory standards.
• Collaborate closely with machinists, engineers, and production teams to identify, communicate, and help resolve quality issues.
• Support the machine department by providing feedback on nonconformances and assisting in root cause analysis and corrective actions.
• Contribute to continuous improvement efforts by suggesting enhancements to inspection methods, processes, and documentation.

Essential Skills

• Hands-on experience performing first article, in-process, and final inspections on machined parts, preferably in an aerospace environment.
• Proficiency using precision measurement tools such as calipers, bore gages, micrometers, height gauges, and coordinate measuring machines (CMM).
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, and GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing) specifications.
• Working knowledge of quality control and inspection practices for machined components.
• Familiarity with AS9100 and ISO 9001 quality management systems and their application in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in measurement, documentation, and recordkeeping.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with machinists, engineers, and production personnel to address quality concerns.
• Solid problem-solving skills and the ability to identify and communicate nonconformances clearly.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience inspecting aerospace metals and components in a precision machining environment.
• Experience supporting a machine shop or machine department with quality inspection activities.
• Comfort working with optical inspection equipment and advanced measurement technologies.
• Familiarity with structured interview processes, including phone and on-site stages.
• Willingness to work early shifts aligned with production schedules.

Why Work Here?

You will work in a precision-focused aerospace environment where quality and craftsmanship are highly valued. The company promotes close collaboration between quality, machining, and engineering teams, giving you the opportunity to directly influence product excellence and continuous improvement. You can expect a structured hiring process, clear expectations, and the chance to deepen your expertise in advanced inspection techniques and aerospace quality standards.

Work Environment

This role is based in an aerospace metals machine shop operating within an AS9100 precision machining environment. You will work around CNC and other machining equipment, using precision measurement tools such as calipers, bore gages, micrometers, height gauges, CMMs, and optical inspection equipment. The typical shift runs from 6:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., supporting active production operations. The environment emphasizes adherence to documented quality procedures, attention to detail, and safe practices typical of a modern manufacturing facility.

Job Type & Location

This is a Permanent position based out of Hawthorne, CA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $54080.00 - $64480.00/yr.

Dental and vision insurance 401(k) with 4% company match 40 hours sick time 40 hours vacation first 2 years, 80 hours vacation after 2 full years of employment Quarterly and year-end bonus opportunities

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Hawthorne,CA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 18, 2026.

About Aerotek

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companies’ construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals, skills, and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role in solving companies’ construction, manufacturing, and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are-everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.