Precision Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Summary

Southern Machine Works is seeking a Quality Inspector to support our growing inspection workload. This position performs incoming, in-process, and final dimensional inspections using standard precision measuring equipment and Zeiss CMMs with Calypso software.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

To perform the job successfully, an individual must satisfy the following duties and responsibilities:

• Perform dimensional inspections of precision-machined components using engineering drawings, specifications, inspection plans, and other applicable requirements.
• Perform incoming inspection of purchased materials, components, and products returned from outside processing.
• Perform in-process and final inspections of manufactured components.
• Perform outgoing inspection and verify products and required documentation prior to shipment.
• Use precision measuring equipment including calipers, micrometers, height gauges, depth gauges, bore gauges, indicators, thread gauges, pin gauges, surface plate equipment, and other standard metrology equipment.
• Operate Zeiss coordinate measuring machines using Calypso software to perform dimensional inspections as needed.
• Read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, dimensional tolerances, and Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
• Verify that appropriate inspection methods and measurement equipment are used based upon drawing and specification requirements.
• Accurately record and document inspection results within the company's Quality Management System.
• Review inspection documentation and identify products or features that do not conform to requirements.
• Identify and document nonconforming material in accordance with established Quality Management System procedures.
• Assist with First Article Inspection activities, including AS9102 documentation when required.
• Work with machinists, supervisors, and other inspection personnel to resolve dimensional or inspection-related questions.
• Maintain inspection equipment and work areas in an organized and professional condition.
• Follow established AS9100D, ISO 9001:2015, customer, and company quality procedures.
• Maintain confidentiality of customer drawings, specifications, and other controlled information.
• Perform other inspection and quality-related duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities

This job has no supervisory responsibilities.

Competencies

To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:

• Attention to Detail - Carefully evaluates dimensions, specifications, documentation, and workmanship. Recognizes discrepancies and does not overlook details that could affect product acceptance.
• Problem Solving - Identifies dimensional and inspection problems, evaluates available information, and works with appropriate personnel to resolve issues.
• Quality - Demonstrates accuracy and thoroughness; follows established inspection procedures; verifies work before acceptance; understands the importance of maintaining product conformity.
• Communication - Communicates clearly with machinists, supervisors, and other inspection personnel. Listens and asks questions when drawing requirements, tolerances, or inspection methods are unclear.
• Technical Ability - Understands precision measurement principles and properly selects and uses inspection equipment appropriate for the feature being measured.
• Organization - Maintains accurate inspection records and keeps inspection equipment, documentation, and work areas organized.
• Dependability - Is consistently at work and on time; follows instructions and established procedures; completes assigned inspections in a timely manner.
• Initiative - Continues to develop inspection and metrology skills and asks for assistance when needed. Looks for practical ways to improve inspection methods and processes.
• Safety and Security - Observes company safety and security procedures and properly handles customer-controlled information and products.

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.

The ideal candidate will have previous dimensional inspection experience in a CNC machining, aerospace, defense, or other precision manufacturing environment.

The following qualifications are particularly important:

• Ability to read and interpret mechanical blueprints and engineering drawings.
• Working knowledge of dimensional tolerances and GD&T.
• Proficiency using calipers, micrometers, height gauges, bore gauges, indicators, thread gauges, pin gauges, and other common precision inspection equipment.
• Understanding of proper measurement techniques and inspection practices.
• Ability to accurately document inspection results.
• Basic computer proficiency.
• Ability to work independently while also working effectively with machinists and other members of the quality department.
• Experience operating a CMM is preferred.
• Experience with Zeiss CMMs and Calypso software is strongly preferred.
• Experience with AS9100, ISO 9001, AS9102 First Article Inspection, or aerospace inspection requirements is preferred.

Education and/or Experience

High school diploma or equivalent required.

Technical or vocational education in precision machining, metrology, manufacturing technology, or a related field is preferred.

Previous dimensional inspection experience in a precision machining or manufacturing environment is required.

Language Skills

Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, work instructions, inspection procedures, quality procedures, and other technical documents.

Ability to clearly document inspection results and communicate inspection findings to production and quality personnel.

Mathematical Skills

Ability to perform mathematical calculations involving whole numbers, decimals, fractions, ratios, and basic geometry.

Ability to understand dimensional tolerances and perform calculations necessary for dimensional inspection.

Reasoning Ability

Ability to interpret engineering requirements and determine appropriate inspection methods.

Ability to identify discrepancies between actual measurements and specified requirements and communicate those discrepancies appropriately.

Computer Skills

Basic computer skills required.

Experience with computerized inspection or Quality Management Systems preferred.

Experience with Zeiss Calypso CMM software preferred.

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations

No specific certificates, licenses, or registrations required.

GD&T, metrology, quality, or inspection-related training or certifications are preferred

Southern Machine Works, Inc. is a growing, third-generation precision manufacturing company located in Duncan, Oklahoma. Since 1964, we have served customers in aerospace, defense, firearms, commercial OEM, and other demanding industries by producing high-quality CNC-machined components and related manufacturing services.

We are AS9100D and ISO 9001:2015 certified and operate a modern, climate-controlled manufacturing facility equipped with advanced Mazak CNC mills and lathes, multi-axis machining capability, horizontal machining centers with pallet automation, and Zeiss CMM inspection equipment.

Southern Machine Works is built around long-term customer relationships, skilled manufacturing, continuous improvement, and the ability to take on technically demanding work. We value dependable people who take ownership of their work, communicate well, and want to grow their skills while working with modern manufacturing technology.

Southern Machine Works offers competitive pay and a comprehensive benefits package for full-time employees, including group medical, dental and vision coverage, a SIMPLE IRA with employer match, employee life and AD&D insurance, paid holidays, and paid time off.