Professional First Article Inspector Jobs in Baltimore, MD

PRIMUS AEROSPACE

QUALITY INSPECTOR

POSITION SUMMARY

Primus Aerospace is a premier manufacturer of precision-machined components and assemblies serving the Aerospace, Defense, and Space industries. The Quality Inspector is responsible for verifying product conformity throughout the manufacturing process by performing in-process, first article, receiving, and final inspections. This position ensures compliance with customer specifications, engineering drawings, AS9100 requirements, and applicable regulatory standards while supporting continuous improvement initiatives and maintaining the highest level of product quality.

The Quality Inspector serves as a key contributor to product acceptance, risk mitigation, customer satisfaction, and operational excellence.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Inspection and Product Verification

• Perform Receiving, First Piece, In-Process, First Article, Lot, and Final Inspections in accordance with customer specifications, engineering drawings, purchase orders, and company procedures.
• Verify product conformity utilizing precision measuring instruments and inspection equipment.
• Interpret engineering drawings, specifications, customer requirements, and manufacturing documentation.
• Validate dimensional, visual, and functional requirements of manufactured products.
• Perform and document AS9102 First Article Inspections (FAIRs).
• Develop and maintain inspection plans, inspection reports, and quality records.
• Ensure all inspection documentation is complete, accurate, and maintained in accordance with quality system requirements.
• Conduct source inspection support and customer witness inspections when required.

Quality Systems and Compliance

• Maintain compliance with AS9100 Quality Management System requirements.
• Review work orders, travelers, routers, certifications, and manufacturing records for completeness and accuracy.
• Verify traceability requirements for raw materials, special processes, and finished products.
• Review Certificates of Conformance (CoCs), material certifications, and special process certifications.
• Compile and verify customer-required shipping documentation and quality records.
• Support internal audits, customer audits, and third-party audits.
• Assist in maintaining inspection procedures, work instructions, and quality documentation.

Problem Solving and Continuous Improvement

• Participate in investigations involving nonconforming material and quality escapes.
• Support Root Cause Corrective Action activities utilizing:
  • 8D Methodology
  • 5 Why Analysis
  • Fishbone (Ishikawa) Diagrams
  • Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA)
• Assist with Corrective and Preventive Actions (CAPA).
• Support customer complaint investigations and Return Material Authorizations (RMAs).
• Identify opportunities to improve quality, reduce defects, and enhance manufacturing processes.

Measurement Equipment and Calibration

• Select appropriate inspection equipment based on tolerance requirements and measurement uncertainty.
• Utilize and maintain proficiency with:
  • Calipers
  • Micrometers
  • Height Gages
  • Bore Gages
  • Indicators
  • Optical Comparators
  • Thread Gages
  • Surface Plates
  • Pin Gages
• Support calibration activities and ensure equipment remains within calibration requirements.
• Maintain awareness of measurement system analysis and best inspection practices.

Systems and Administrative Responsibilities

• Maintain inspection and quality records within ERP and Quality Management Systems.
• Ensure timely disposition of inspected product to support production schedules and customer delivery requirements.
• Maintain organized work areas and comply with all safety requirements.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of quality inspection experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience performing bench inspections and dimensional inspections.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and specifications.
• Working knowledge of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
• Experience performing AS9102 First Article Inspections.
• Experience using precision measuring instruments and inspection equipment.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications including Excel, Word, and Outlook.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Aerospace or Defense manufacturing experience.
• Associate degree in Manufacturing, Engineering Technology, Quality Assurance, or related discipline.
• ASQ Certified Quality Inspector (CQI) certification.
• Experience with Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMM) and CMM software.
• Experience with ERP systems in a manufacturing environment.
• Knowledge of aerospace customer requirements and special process controls.
• Experience supporting AS9100-certified organizations.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Thorough understanding of AS9100D and AS9102 requirements.
• Strong knowledge of GD&T principles and inspection methodologies.
• Knowledge of aerospace manufacturing processes and special processes.
• Ability to interpret customer specifications and engineering requirements.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to identify nonconforming conditions and recommend corrective actions.
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively across Quality, Engineering, Production, and Supply Chain teams.
• Commitment to continuous improvement and operational excellence.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and sit for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds occasionally.
• Ability to perform repetitive hand and arm movements.
• Visual acuity sufficient to perform detailed inspections and read engineering drawings.
• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with exposure to machine operations, noise, and industrial equipment.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Work is performed in a manufacturing and inspection environment. Appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) may be required in designated production areas. Employees are expected to comply with all company safety policies and procedures.

EXPORT CONTROL REQUIREMENT

In compliance with U.S. export control laws and regulations, including ITAR and EAR requirements, applicants must be U.S. Persons as defined by applicable regulations. U.S. Persons include U.S. Citizens, lawful permanent residents, refugees, or asylees.

DISCLAIMER

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and qualifications required. Management reserves the right to modify, assign, or reassign duties and responsibilities at any time based on business needs.