The posting
As QA Inspector III, you will serve as the quality resource responsible for planning, performing, and leading complex dimensional and non‑destructive inspections. You will interpret and apply standards and specifications, utilize advanced scanning and tracking equipment, support and mentor other inspectors, and provide critical feedback to manufacturing engineering and operations to drive continuous improvement. Innovate & Power the world At Fairbanks Morse Defense Bird-Johnson Propeller Company, we pioneer the power that matters to our customers, to society and to the planet. Fairbanks Morse Defense Bird-Johnson Propeller Company is a Military Friendly Employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.
Key Accountabilities:
Independently perform complex dimensional inspections and determine acceptability against standards, engineering drawings, models, customer specifications, and internal procedures. Perform NDT inspections (VT and LPT, and other qualified methods as applicable) and determine acceptability against standards or specifications; provide technical guidance to other inspectors. Plan, execute, and validate advanced laser tracking/scanning inspections (FARO/Leica/Keyence or equivalent) including setup, alignment, data collection, and analysis. Utilize PolyWorks Inspector and PolyWorks Modeler (or similar metrology software) to create inspection plans, analyze point‑cloud data, generate deviation reports, and provide actionable feedback to engineering and operations. Perform and oversee Pitchometer floor layouts for large, fixed pitch propellers and verify conformance to pitch, contour, and balance requirements. Create, review, and maintain inspection records, certificates, and reports ensuring traceability, accuracy, and compliance with customer, regulatory, and internal requirements. Perform receiving inspections of complex and critical purchased goods; interface with suppliers and Supply Chain to resolve nonconformances and clarify quality requirements. Generate, issue, and close‑out NCRs (Nonconformance Reports) and CARs (Corrective Action Requests); lead or participate in root cause analysis and corrective action verification. Review, create, and update quality documentation (procedures, work instructions, inspection plans, forms) for currency, compliance, and effectiveness; recommend and implement improvements. Perform in‑process audits on the foundry, finishing, and machining departments to ensure compliance with processes, policies, and customer/regulatory requirements; follow up on findings to ensure timely closure. Collaborate with Manufacturing Engineering, Design Engineering, and Operations to resolve quality issues, support new product introduction, and improve manufacturing processes. Assist the Quality Manager with metrics, reporting, and preparation for customer, regulatory, and third‑party audits as required. Adhere to prescribed safety rules and regulations and promote a strong safety culture within the department and across operations. Perform other duties as assigned by the Quality Manager.
Basic Requirements:
High school diploma or equivalent required. Minimum of 5–7 years of relevant experience in manufacturing and/or inspection, including demonstrated experience in complex dimensional inspections and NDT. Strong knowledge and proficient use of standard measuring and test equipment (e.g., calipers, micrometers, height gauges, bore gauges, surface plates, CMMs, laser trackers/scanners). Demonstrated ability to read and interpret blueprints, GD&T, specifications, and 3D models. Proficient in MS Office programs (MS Excel and Word) for data collection, reporting, and documentation. Ability to lift various items weighing up to 50 lbs., including in awkward positions, and work in a shop/foundry environment as required. Ability to operate forklifts, cranes, and various material handling equipment (or ability to obtain certification). Strong communication skills with the ability to interface effectively with production, engineering, management, and external customers/suppliers. In order to be considered for this opportunity, you must be eligible to obtain and maintain security clearance, which requires USA Citizenship.
Preferred Requirements:
Laser tracking/scanning experience (FARO/Leica/Keyence) including creation of inspection routines and analysis reports. Hands‑on experience with PolyWorks Inspector and PolyWorks Modeler or equivalent metrology software. Formal training and/or certification in NDT (such as Level II or Level III in VT, LPT, or other methods) to applicable standards. Finishing and machine shop background with strong understanding of machining processes, foundry practices, and associated quality controls. Experience leading root cause analysis (e.g., 5‑Why, Fishbone, 8D) and implementing corrective and preventive actions. Experience supporting customer audits, regulatory audits, or third‑party quality system audits (e.g., ISO, MIL‑STD). Prior experience mentoring or providing technical guidance to junior inspectors or production personnel.
Pioneer the next generation of innovation. Join us and you’ll develop your skills and expertise to the very highest levels, working in an international environment for a company known the world over for its brilliance. Our People are Our Power We are an equal opportunities employer. We’re committed to developing a diverse workforce and an inclusive working environment. We believe that people from different backgrounds and cultures give us different perspectives. And the more perspectives we have, the more successful we’ll be. By building a culture of respect and appreciation, we give everyone who works here the opportunity to realize their full potential. You can learn more about our global Inclusion strategy here. At Fairbanks Morse Defense Bird-Johnson Propeller, we embrace workplace flexibility. Our teams work in onsite, hybrid and remote work environments based on work and personal requirements. The specific arrangements vary from team to team. Please ask us about how we work on this team.
