Shipyard Quality Technician - Norfolk VA

Shipyard Quality Technician – Norfolk, VA (75% Travel)

Job Title:

Quality Technician (Field Service Shipboard)

Location:

Chesapeake, VA shop with 75%+ travel to US and international job sites.

Reports To:

Quality & Safety Manager.

Kymera International is a leading global producer of specialty metal powders, pastes, and granules, serving aerospace, defense, automotive, and electronics industries. As part of Kymera International, Thermal Spray Solutions, Inc. (TSS) is an ISO 9001:2015 certified, full-service thermal spray facility providing high-performance coating solutions for marine, power generation, pulp & paper, valves, pumps, and DoD. We are committed to sustainability, operational excellence, and ethical practices.

The Quality Technician performs quality control inspections, measurements, and verifications in both a machine shop environment and in the field, including shipboard paint, coating, and repair operations. The role ensures that all products, processes, and services meet company, customer, and regulatory requirements with a strong emphasis on safety, precision, and compliance. The technician must travel 50–75% of the time, including domestic and international assignments, and work aboard naval and commercial vessels under varying conditions.

• Perform dimensional inspections using precision measuring instruments (micrometers, calipers, bore gauges, CMM, height gauges).
• Conduct First Article Inspections in accordance with AS9102 and customer-specific requirements.
• Interpret and apply military specifications, ISO 9001, AS9100D, and other relevant quality standards.
• Support and maintain calibration programs in accordance with ISO/ANSI/NCSL Z540 and other applicable standards.
• Document inspection results and maintain accurate records in quality databases and reports.
• Participate in root cause analysis, corrective actions, and preventive measures when nonconformances are detected.
• Perform in-process and final inspections of machined components, fabricated parts, and coated/painted surfaces.
• Oversee compliance with MIL-STD coating and painting requirements for shipboard applications.
• Ensure all work complies with OSHA, shipyard safety rules, and company safety policies during field assignments.
• Collaborate with production teams, project managers, and field service crews to ensure product quality and process control.
• Review and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, technical specifications, and work instructions.
• Provide training or coaching to team members on inspection techniques, safety protocols, and quality procedures.
• Act as an on-site quality and safety representative during field work, including aboard ships in foreign ports.
• Assist in preparing and maintaining quality documentation for audits and customer reviews.
• Implement safety controls and hazard mitigation strategies while on job sites, including shipboard and overseas locations.

• Generous Time Off: 11 annual company-paid holidays and PTO.
• Health Care: FSA, HSA, comprehensive dental and vision coverage.
• Retirement: 401(k) plan with competitive company match.
• Insurance:
  Company-paid short-term disability and life insurance; additional voluntary options include critical illness, hospital care, and long-term disability.
• Competitive pay.
• Team culture and resources to help you thrive.

• Proficient in the use of quality measurement tools and gauges.
• Strong knowledge of FAI process and documentation.
• Experience with calibration standards and techniques for measurement devices.
• Familiarity with MIL‑SPEC, ISO 9001, AS9100D standards and compliance requirements.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, GD&T, and work packages.
• Strong attention to detail and documentation accuracy.
• Excellent problem‑solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Willingness and ability to travel 50–75% of the time, including overseas assignments.
• Knowledge of OSHA safety regulations and hazard identification.
• Ability to work independently in shop and field environments and collaborate across teams.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage and prioritize…