Quality Inspector Lead

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Full Time South El Monte, CA, US

Salary Range: $32.00 To $38.00 Hourly

Karman Space & Defense is a leader in the rapid design, development, and production of critical, next-generation system solutions that align with the U.S. Department of War and its allies’ core mission priorities and meet the accelerating demand for access to space. Building on nearly 50 years of success, we deliver Payload & Protection Systems, Aero/Hydrodynamic Interstage Systems, and Propulsion & Launch Systems to more than 80 prime contractors supporting over 130 space and defense programs.

This role is part of our Space and Launch business, which has contributed to the nation’s space programs for decades by delivering complete solutions from concept to flight. We enable successful space operations with mission-critical technology supporting every step from first launch to final landing, including launch vehicle subsystems, propulsion systems, aerodynamic and interstage systems, and payload protection and deployment. Our high-performance solutions are engineered to operate in the most extreme environments and meet precise mission requirements.

As a Quality Inspector Lead, you will help ensure the precision, accuracy, and compliance of components and assemblies that support critical space and launch programs. You will perform complex inspections, guide and train inspectors, and help maintain the integrity of our quality systems. Your work directly supports reliable hardware delivery, strong customer confidence, and consistent adherence to industry and regulatory standards.

• Performs dimensional and mechanical inspections of parts, components, and assemblies to verify conformance with blueprints, engineering specifications, and customer requirements.
• Executes AS9102 First Article Inspection (FAI) processes and prepares inspection reports.
• Uses precision measurement instruments such as calipers, micrometers, profilometers, ultrasonic tools, thread gages, and pin gages to assess conformity.
• Interprets test results, compares findings to specifications and control limits, and recommends appropriate data disposition.
• Leads, trains, and supports a team of quality inspectors, providing guidance on inspection methods, workflows, and best practices.
• Develops and implements inspection protocols and procedures to improve inspection efficiency and effectiveness.
• Investigates out‑of‑specification conditions and failures, recommending corrective actions.
• Reviews and approves inspection reports, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
• Monitors and inspects finished products to maintain compliance with quality and customer standards.
• Prepares detailed reports on inspection results, identifying deviations and supporting corrective action processes.

• Excellent oral and written comprehension.
• Strong problem‑solving abilities.
• Knowledge of algebra and geometry.
• Broad understanding of engineering principles.
• Experience using and calibrating measurement tools such as height gages and calipers.
• Knowledge of ISO 9001 and AS9100 quality standards.
• Four‑year degree or equivalent work experience.
• Experience in quality control or quality assurance within a manufacturing environment.
• Strong attention to detail, organization, communication skills, and ability to interact effectively across all levels of the organization.
• Working knowledge of customer and supplier audits, customer specifications, and related quality processes.
• Understanding of quality management system (QMS) reporting, record keeping, and procedural compliance.

• Constant…