Sr. Inspector - FAI/First Article

About the role

Work Schedule: Onsite – Buffalo, NY

Our team in MAG (Military Aircraft Group) is seeking an experienced Sr. QA Manufacturing Inspector to own First Piece and First Article inspections for complex manifolds and prismatic components in an AS9100 environment. You’ll ensure process effectiveness, operator competency and part conformity, drive continuous improvement, and resolve quality issues through teamwork and strong problem-solving. This position will be onsite in East Aurora, NY.

To be considered for this role, here's what you'll need to bring with you:

• High School Diploma or GED preferred. Otherwise, demonstrated ability to understand and apply all verbal, written, and computer work instructions or training in English, and demonstrated ability to perform simple addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
• Minimum of 5 years of quality inspection experience in a manufacturing environment, preferably aerospace.
• Strong ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and blueprints.
• Working knowledge and application of GD&T per ASME Y14.5.
• Experience with AS9100 quality management requirements and AS9102 First Article Inspection documentation.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to identify process risks and drive corrective actions.
• Experience using precision measurement equipment and advanced inspection technologies.

As a Senior Quality Inspector, you will

• Plan, perform, and document First Piece and First Article Inspections in accordance with AS9100 and AS9102 requirements for complex machined aerospace components.
• Evaluate manufacturing processes, setups, tooling, fixturing, inspection methods, and operator readiness to identify risk and ensure process effectiveness.
• Conduct inspections and layouts of varying complexity to verify product conformity and workmanship standards.
• Utilize advanced metrology equipment, automated inspection systems, CMMs, scanners, and precision measurement devices to perform dimensional inspections.
• Interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and GD&T requirements to validate compliance with customer and internal requirements.
• Train and mentor operators and quality inspectors on inspection techniques, best practices, and GD&T interpretation.
• Collaborate with Manufacturing, Production, and Engineering teams to resolve quality concerns and support continuous improvement initiatives.
• Review and support approval of new tooling and fixturing to ensure manufacturing readiness and compliance.
• Assist with product, process, and business system audits and communicate findings and improvement opportunities to responsible stakeholders.
• Support investigation activities, root cause analysis, and corrective action implementation across manufacturing operations.
• Apply SPC techniques, control charts, and basic statistical analysis to monitor process performance and drive quality improvements.

How we care for you

• Financial Rewards: Great compensation package, annual profit sharing, matching 401(k), and the ability to participate in Employee Stock Purchase Plan, Flexible Spending Accounts, and Health Savings Accounts.
• Work/Life Balance: Flexible paid time off, holidays, parental leave program, and relocation assistance.
• Health & Welfare: Comprehensive insurance coverage including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), and supplemental benefit offerings.
• Professional Skills Development: Tuition assistance, mentorship and coaching opportunities, leadership development, and personal growth programs.
• Collaborative and Welcoming Workplace: Inclusive culture rooted in our values, enhanced by Employee Resource Groups and team-building activities.
• Additional site-specific benefits may be offered.
• 2nd and 3rd shift employees receive a 10% shift differential pay.

Salary Range Transparency

Buffalo, NY $32.00–$39.00 Hourly