Lead Inspector

We are looking for a Lead Inspector for our Amherst, NY facility. In this role you will oversee all activities and interactions of inspectors within the manufacturing system to ensure Oerlikon’s productivity and quality goals are met. You will plan and assign work, implement policies and procedures and recommend improvements from production methods, equipment, operating procedures and working conditions.

• Comprehensive medical and prescription drug plan with low premiums, company‑sponsored HSA contributions and no cumbersome waiting periods.
• Excellent dental and vision coverage.
• Employee assistance, financial and wellness programs.
• 401(k) retirement plan with significant company match and financial planning options.
• Tuition reimbursement and internal education resources.
• Generous paid time off.
• 12 paid company holidays.
• 100% company‑paid life insurance and disability insurance.
• Employee referral bonus program.

• Oversee all fundamental lab operations for equipment, supply, outputs, etc.
• Train inspectors in quality procedures.
• Hold weekly meetings with the Center Core team (Plant Manager, Operations Manager, Quality, Service, others).
• Oversee and assist with inspectors’ daily activities.
• Support inspection and testing when required.
• Investigate non‑conformances in quality and recommend permanent corrective actions.
• Identify continuous improvements in your area of responsibility.
• Maintain effective employee relations through communication and teamwork leadership.
• Demonstrate strong support for workplace safety, PPE, and health, safety & environmental (HSE) objectives.
• Support the Quality Management System in maintaining ISO 9001 standard requirements.
• Enforce area housekeeping standards.
• Other responsibilities as assigned.

• Associate’s degree preferably in Quality or Material Science (equivalent experience may substitute).
• 2+ years of experience in an inspection role within a manufacturing and/or production environment.
• 1+ year of experience implementing and executing ISO 9001:2015.
• Proficiency with MS Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel).
• Ability to use problem‑solving tools such as 5‑Why, Pareto charts, run‑and‑control charts, cause‑and‑effect diagrams, and 8D or similar.
• Effective verbal and written communication and presentation skills.
• Energetic, goal‑driven, result‑oriented high‑energy personality.
• Physical demand may require lifting, stacking, pushing, pulling or moving items up to 44 pounds.

Oerlikon is required by law to provide a compensation estimate for this position: $26.65 to $39.98 per hour. A discretionary incentive program may also be available. Compensation will be based on factors such as job location, work experience, education, training, certifications, licenses, etc. The total compensation package includes a competitive benefits program effective on the first day of employment, with 2 weeks paid time off accrued monthly, 12 holidays, personal/sick time, medical, dental, vision, 401(k), pet insurance and tuition reimbursement.