Job Information
Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. Quality Inspector in Auburn Hills, Michigan
Job Descriptions:
Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc., is a leading defense technology company focused on uncrewed systems, satellite communications, cyber security/warfare, microwave electronics, missile defense, training, and combat systems. Our customers include the U.S. federal government, foreign governments, commercial enterprises, and state and local government agencies. At Kratos, we prioritize affordability as a cornerstone of our technology. We leverage proven, cutting-edge methodologies and technology to minimize costs, streamline schedules, and mitigate risks, ensuring timely delivery of cost-effective solutions to market.
GENERAL JOB SUMMARY:
The Quality Inspector (Incoming & CMM Operator) is responsible for verifying the quality and conformance of incoming materials, components, and assemblies, while operating Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMM) using pre-programmed routines. This role ensures that all incoming product meets engineering, customer, and regulatory requirements prior to release into production.
Positioned between a Quality Lead and a CMM Programmer, this role combines hands-on inspection capability with strong print interpretation and requirements understanding, while executing structured measurement processes using calibrated inspection equipment.
This position reports to the Quality Manager or Quality Lead and works closely with Supply Chain, Manufacturing, Engineering, and Supplier Quality to ensure incoming quality, traceability, and compliance.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
Incoming Inspection & Verification
Perform inspection of incoming materials, components, and assemblies against:
Engineering drawings and specifications
Purchase order requirements
Customer and regulatory standards (AS9100)
Verify dimensional, visual, and documentation compliance prior to acceptance
Ensure all incoming product is properly identified, tagged, and traceable
Support receiving inspection processes aligned to MP&L and Supply Chain
CMM Operation (Pre-Programmed)
Operate CMM equipment using pre-existing inspection programs
Load, fixture, and align parts for accurate measurement execution
Execute inspection routines and verify output data integrity
Identify out-of-tolerance conditions and escalate appropriately
Ensure proper handling, calibration awareness, and care of inspection equipment
Print Reading & Requirements Interpretation
Interpret engineering drawings including:
GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing)
Critical-to-quality characteristics
Dimensional and tolerance requirements
Understand part requirements and inspection criteria
Validate inspection results against defined acceptance criteria
Documentation & Data Entry
Record inspection results in:
Inspection reports
First Article Inspection (FAI) documentation (AS9102 support)
QMS systems (UniPoint) and/or ERP/PLM systems
Maintain accurate, complete, and traceable inspection records
Ensure inspection data is aligned to part configuration and revision
Nonconformance Identification & Control
Identify and document nonconforming material
Support containment activities including segregation and tagging
Generate or support Nonconformance Reports (NCRs)
Interface with Quality Engineer and Supplier Quality Engineer on disposition
Cross-Functional Support
Interface with:
Supply Chain / Receiving – incoming material flow and documentation
Manufacturing – acceptance of parts into production
Engineering – clarification of drawing/specification requirements
Quality Engineering – root cause and corrective action support
Ensure alignment between inspection results and operational needs
Equipment & Calibration Awareness
Ensure use of calibrated inspection tools and equipment
Follow calibration control processes and equipment handling procedures
Maintain cleanliness and proper setup of inspection areas and equipment
Continuous Improvement & Quality Discipline
Support improvements in incoming inspection processes and workflows
Identify recurring supplier or part issues and escalate trends
Reinforce standard work and inspection consistency
Support AS9100 compliance and audit readiness
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY
No direct supervisory responsibility
Works under direction of the Quality Manager / Quality Lead
Required Experience:
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES
Required
Strong ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and GD&T
Hands-on experience with inspection tools (calipers, micrometers, gauges, etc.)
Ability to operate CMM equipment using pre-programmed routines
Strong attention to detail and accuracy
Understanding of inspection processes and quality requirements
Ability to document and communicate inspection results clearly
Basic computer skills (Excel, data entry systems)
Preferred
Experience in aerospace or AS9100-regulated environment
Familiarity with UniPoint (QMS) and/or Costpoint ERP
Experience supporting FAI (AS9102) documentation
Basic understanding of CMM programming concepts (not required to program)
Exposure to root cause and corrective action processes
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
Required
High school diploma or equivalent
2–5 years of inspection or quality experience in manufacturing environment
Preferred
Technical training or certification in inspection or metrology
Experience in precision machining or aerospace components
WORK ENVIRONMENT / PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Shop floor and quality lab environment
Frequent interaction with parts, components, and inspection equipment
Ability to stand for extended periods
Ability to lift materials or components up to 40 lbs
Requires precision hand movement and attention to detail
TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS
- Minimal (<10%)
THE ABOVE STATEMENTS ARE INTENDED TO DESCRIBE THE GENERAL NATURE AND LEVEL OF WORK BEING PERFORMED BY INDIVIDUALS ASSIGNED TO THIS CLASSIFICATION. THEY ARE NOT INTENDED TO BE CONSTRUED AS AN EXHAUSTIVE LIST OF ALL RESPONSIBILITIES, DUTIES AND SKILLS REQUIRED OF PERSONNEL SO CLASSIFIED.
A REVIEW OF THIS CLASSIFICATION HAS EXCLUDED THE MARGINAL FUNCTIONS OF THE CLASSIFICATION THAT ARE INCIDENTAL TO THE PERFORMANCE OF FUNDAMENTAL JOB JUTIES. ALL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES ARE ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS AND REQUIREMENTS AND ARE SUBJECT TO POSSIBLE MODIFICATION TO REASONABLY ACCOMMODATE INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES TO PERFORM THIS JOB PROFICIENTLY. THE REQUIREMENTS LISTED IN THIS DOCUMENT ARE THE MINIMUM LEVELS OF KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS OR ABILITIES.
EEO/M/F/D/V
#LI-Onsite
Keyword: incoming inspection, CMM operation, GD&T, engineering drawings, AS9100, dimensional inspection, FAI, UniPoint, Costpoint, NCRs, metrology tools, quality compliance, supplier quality, traceability
Kratos Defense is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, pregnancy, genetic information, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected category under applicable federal, state, and local laws.
Disability Accessibility Accommodation
If you require an accommodation to navigate or apply to our careers site, please send your request to HRAccessibility@kratosdefense.com or call 858-964-2916. Any inquires not related to requesting an accommodation will be discarded.
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From: Kratos Defense