Quality Inspector

kratos defense & security solutions, inc., is a leading defense technology company focused on uncrewed systems, satellite communications, cyber security/warfare, microwave electronics, missile defense, training, and combat systems. Our customers include the u.s. Federal government, foreign governments, commercial enterprises, and state and local government agencies. At kratos, we prioritize affordability as a cornerstone of our technology. We leverage proven, cutting‑edge methodologies and technology to minimize costs, streamline schedules, and mitigate risks, ensuring timely delivery of cost‑effective solutions to market.

the quality inspector (incoming & cmm operator) is responsible for verifying the quality and conformance of incoming materials, components, and assemblies, while operating coordinate measuring machines (cmm) using pre‑programmed routines. This role ensures that all incoming product meets engineering, customer, and regulatory requirements prior to release into production.

positioned between a quality lead and a cmm programmer, this role combines hands‑on inspection capability with strong print interpretation and requirements understanding, while executing structured measurement processes using calibrated inspection equipment.

this position reports to the quality manager or quality lead and works closely with supply chain, manufacturing, engineering, and supplier quality to ensure incoming quality, traceability, and compliance.

• perform inspection of incoming materials, components, and assemblies against:
  • engineering drawings and specifications
  • purchase order requirements
  • customer and regulatory standards (as9100)
• verify dimensional, visual, and documentation compliance prior to acceptance
• ensure all incoming product is properly identified, tagged, and traceable
• support receiving inspection processes aligned to mp&l and supply chain

• operate cmm equipment using pre-existing inspection programs
• load, fixture, and align parts for accurate measurement execution
• execute inspection routines and verify output data integrity
• identify out-of-tolerance conditions and elevate appropriately
• ensure proper handling, calibration awareness, and care of inspection equipment

• interpret engineering drawings including:
  • gd&t (geometric dimensioning & tolerancing)
  • critical-to-quality characteristics
  • dimensional and tolerance requirements
• understand part requirements and inspection criteria
• validate inspection results against defined acceptance criteria

• record inspection results in:
  • inspection reports
  • first article inspection (fai) documentation (as9102 support)
  • qms systems (unipoint) and/or erp/plm systems
• maintain accurate, complete, and traceable inspection records
• ensure inspection data is aligned to part configuration and revision

• identify and document nonconforming material
• support containment activities including segregation and tagging
• generate or support nonconformance reports (ncrs)
• interface with quality engineer and supplier quality engineer on disposition

• interface with:
  • supply chain / receiving incoming material flow and documentation
  • manufacturing acceptance of parts into production
  • engineering clarification of drawing/specification requirements
  • quality engineering root cause and corrective action support
• ensure alignment between inspection results and operational needs

• ensure use of calibrated inspection tools and equipment
• follow calibration control processes and equipment handling procedures
• maintain cleanliness and proper setup of inspection areas and equipment

• support improvements in incoming inspection processes and workflows
• identify recurring supplier or part issues and elevate trends
• reinforce standard work and inspection consistency
• support as9100 compliance and audit readiness

• no direct supervisory responsibility
• works under direction of the quality manager / quality lead