Quality Technical Engineer

Overview

The Quality Technical Engineer is a specialized support role focused on identifying, evaluating, and implementing advanced technologies that enhance manufacturing quality and inspection processes. This position plays a key role in modernizing the company’s approach to machining, inspection, and production—leveraging emerging tools such as AI-driven software, automated vision systems, and next-generation metrology equipment.

The Quality Technical Engineer works closely with machine shop quality, engineering, production, and senior leadership to develop business cases, present recommendations, and ensure successful integration of new technologies into the manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

Technology Research & Evaluation

• Identify and assess emerging manufacturing and quality technologies, including AI inspection systems, automated metrology, vision systems, robotics, and digital quality solutions.
• Conduct technical evaluations, capability studies, and side-by-side comparisons of new tools or systems.
• Stay current with industry best practices, new inspection methodologies, and relevant advancements in aerospace manufacturing.

Business Case Development & ROI Analysis

• Prepare technical reviews, cost-benefit evaluations, and ROI analyses for potential equipment or software investments.
• Present findings and recommendations to management and senior leadership.
• Support budgeting and capital planning activities related to advanced manufacturing technologies.

Implementation & Integration

• Lead or support the deployment of new inspection systems, software, and automation technologies across the machine shop and production areas.
• Coordinate vendor demonstrations, pilot tests, and proof-of-concept initiatives.
• Develop implementation plans, training documents, and process updates.
• Ensure successful handoff to production and quality teams after deployment.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with QA, Production, Engineering, Maintenance, and IT to ensure new systems integrate cleanly into existing workflows and data pathways.
• Work with metrology and inspection staff to understand pain points and identify opportunities for improvement.
• Support machine shop quality teams with technical troubleshooting related to new tools or systems.

Continuous Improvement

• Recommend and implement process improvements that reduce variation, improve inspection effectiveness, or streamline workflow.
• Support automation initiatives, shop-floor digitization efforts, and quality-system modernization.
• Assist with internal audits, documentation updates, and compliance activities related to new technologies.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing Technology, Quality, or related field; or equivalent technical experience.
• 3+ years of experience in manufacturing, machining, metrology, or quality engineering.
• Strong understanding of inspection tools, GD&T, and machining processes.
• Demonstrated ability to evaluate new technology and support implementation.
• Proficient in data analysis, problem-solving, and technical communication.

Preferred

• Experience with automated inspection systems, AI-based analysis tools, or machine vision.
• Familiarity with advanced metrology software (Poly Works, Verisurf, Faro CAM2, Keyence systems, etc.).
• Background in aerospace fabrication or precision machining.
• Ability to write ROI statements, capital justification reports, and implementation plans.
• Hands-on experience leading small technical projects or cross-functional initiatives.

Key Competencies

• Technical curiosity and forward-thinking mindset.
• Strong communication skills — able to brief leadership and collaborate across departments.
• Analytical problem-solver with an eye for opportunities to modernize.
• Self-driven, highly organized, and comfortable working with minimal supervision.
• Ability to translate complex technology into practical shop-floor solutions.

Working Conditions

• Primarily office and shop-floor environment.
• Regular interaction with machining, inspection, and production teams.
• Occasional travel for training, vendor visits, or technology demonstrations.