Quality Engineer

Position Summary:We are seeking a hands-on and technically driven Quality Engineer to support and strengthen our Quality and Engineering team within a precision CNC machining environment serving the aerospace and defense industries. This role requires strong analytical and problem-solving skills, a proactive floor presence, and the ability to bridge theoretical quality principles with real-time production support. The successful candidate will play a key role in driving continuous improvement, ensuring compliance with industry standards (AS9100, ISO9001, NADCAP), and mentoring quality personnel.

Job Title: Quality Engineer
Department: Quality & Engineering
Position Type: Direct-Hire (Non-Exempt)
Pay: $72,800 – $93,600 annually DOE
Schedule: Monday–Friday, 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Overtime: As needed, including occasional Saturdays (6:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
Team Size: 4 Quality Engineers, 2–4 Quality Inspectors
Career Path: Potential advancement into a Quality Engineer leadership role

Location: Western NY

Key Responsibilities:

• Maintain a strong presence on the production floor to support real-time resolution of quality issues.
• Guide operators through inspection procedures and troubleshooting quality concerns on the spot.
• Conduct and support various inspection types, including:
• First-Piece, In-Process, Final, and Open Plate Inspections
• Source Inspections and First Article Inspections (FAI)
• Oversee CMM operations and programming using Zeiss Calypso (required).
• Utilize precision measuring tools (micrometers, calipers, height gauges, comparators) to validate dimensional tolerances, finishes, and part conformity per GD&T.
• Lead and document non-conformances (NCR/INCR), perform root cause analyses (RCA) using tools like 5 Whys, Fishbone Diagrams, FMEA, and develop CAPAs.
• Assist with preparing and maintaining PPAP, FAIR, and other aerospace quality documentation.
• Audit and ensure adherence to company procedures, quality systems, and regulatory compliance.
• Support process control development and collaborate with operations to improve quality at the source.
• Specify and order inspection gauges and oversee calibration and gauge control requirements.
• Create user-friendly visual aids and inspection documentation for operator use.
• Approve incoming material inspections and product receipts per customer flow-down and quality standards.

Requirements:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in engineering, manufacturing, or related field with 3–6 years of quality engineering experience
  OR associate degree with 5+ years of progressive quality experience and strong understanding of quality principles.
• (Must Have) Required Technical Skills & Experience:
• • Expertise in AS9100 (or AS9100D), aerospace quality compliance standards, is required, NADCAP is preferred, and ISO 9001 compliance is required.
  • Prior experience in aerospace precision CNC machining environments, required.
  • Proficiency in GD&T interpretation and aerospace blueprint reading, required.
  • Zeiss Calypso CMM programming experience (required)
  • Experience with ERP/MRP systems (Epicor preferred)
  • Familiarity with CAD/CAM models and software like Mastercam or PartMaker, required.
  • Experience conducting and documenting First Article Inspections (FAI), PPAP, and FAIR, required.
  • Lean, Six Sigma, or Kaizen knowledge, is preferred.