[Hiring] Quality Assurance Source Inspector @L3HHCM20

Role Description

The Supplier Quality Assurance (SQA) Source Inspector is responsible for performing in‑process and final inspections and reviewing supplier‑submitted End Item Data Packages for complex aerospace hardware. This field‑based role works closely with the Supplier Quality Engineer and will primarily support source inspection activities at supplier GD Lincoln, representing approximately 90% of the inspector’s time. The remaining 10% of duties include providing occasional backfill source inspection support—which may require out‑of‑state travel—and conducting electronic data reviews.

To be successful, the Source Inspector must possess strong Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) knowledge, blueprint‑reading skills, and experience reviewing supplier documentation such as Certificates of Conformance (C of C), material certifications, NDT reports, and detailed inspection records.

The Source Inspector operates under stamp warranty authority to perform product acceptance, including physical dimensional and visual over‑inspections and comprehensive End Item Data Package reviews on behalf of the Missile Solutions SQA organization. The role also issues turn‑backs for nonconformances preventing product acceptance, supports corrective action activities, and participates in supplier daily and weekly Work‑in‑Process (WIP) meetings to ensure visibility and alignment on quality status. This position collaborates closely with Supplier Quality Engineers and Quality Management to ensure product integrity, drive continuous improvement, and support overall mission success.

• Perform detailed in‑process and final inspections on machined parts, composite components, and complex aerospace assemblies to verify compliance with engineering drawings, specifications, and contractual requirements.
• Support the Supplier Quality Engineer with First Article Inspection (FAI) activities.
• Conduct thorough reviews of Supplier End Item Data Packages (EIDPs) to ensure completeness and compliance.
• Issue turn‑backs for product or data nonconformances that prevent acceptance.
• Apply GD&T principles in collaboration with Supplier Quality Engineers to validate product conformity and ensure appropriate inspection coverage.
• Utilize a variety of precision inspection tools—including calipers, micrometers, height gages, comparators, visual aids, and other measurement instruments—to perform accurate inspections.
• Interpret and analyze engineering drawings, blueprints, and specifications to ensure proper inspection execution and documentation.
• Work collaboratively with SQEs and Quality Managers to resolve nonconformances, support corrective action activities, and drive continuous improvement aimed at reducing line rejections and turn‑backs.
• Support supplier quality activities, which may include domestic travel for on‑site inspections or training, sometimes on short notice.
• Ensure compliance with internal procedures, customer requirements, and applicable industry and regulatory standards.
• Participate in supplier daily and weekly Work‑in‑Process (WIP) meetings and support corrective action activities to maintain visibility on production status and drive timely issue resolution.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree and a minimum of 4 years of relevant experience; or a graduate degree and a minimum of 2 years of relevant experience. In lieu of a degree, a minimum of 8 years of related experience is required.
• Minimum of six years of quality inspection experience in aerospace or within a highly regulated industry.
• Demonstrated proficiency in:
  • Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) principles and applications
  • Inspection of complex assemblies, machined components, and composite structures
  • Inspection methods, processes, and documentation practices
• Strong capability in using inspection tools and equipment, including precision measurement instruments, hand tools, and visual inspection aids.
• Ability to read, interpret, and apply engineering drawings, blueprints, and specifications accurately.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills for interfacing with suppliers, engineers, and management.
• Basic proficiency with Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook, etc.).
• Ability and willingness to travel within the United States—occasionally on short notice—to support supplier inspections and related activities.

Preferred Additional Skills

• Experience reviewing NDT certifications (e.g., FPI, Radiography).
• Advanced knowledge of GD&T principles and practical application.
• Prior aerospace industry experience in supplier quality, source inspection, or related functions.
• Familiarity with nonconformance documentation, corrective action processes, and supplier quality management systems.
• Experience performing independent product acceptance under stamp warranty authority.
• Working knowledge of AS9100, AS9102, and AS9120 standards.
• ASQ (CQI) certification or Six Sigma training/certification strongly preferred.
• Knowledge of IPC‑J‑STD‑001 and IPC‑A‑610 requirements.
• Experience performing borescope inspections.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to high‑quality documentation and product verification.