Quality Inspector (Starshield)

About the role

This role owns the responsibility for performing detailed surface plate inspections and dimensional checks on machined aerospace and commercial parts within the Starshield organization. The hire will own the complete in-process inspection workflow, applying visual and dimensional methods to ensure every component meets strict design requirements. You will own proactive communication with production teams to drive product improvements and reduce defects at the source. This position owns the resolution of quality related issues by documenting non-conformances and supporting the implementation of corrective actions. The role owns interaction with cross functional partners while utilizing a broad range of inspection tools such as calipers, micrometers, height and bore gauges, and optical comparators. You will own the verification of certifications, specifications, and conformance through thorough documentation review. The position supports the assessment of compliance with company and industry standards while initiating and leading continual improvement and Lean manufacturing projects. You will own the execution of quality management system policies and procedures to uphold the highest standards for Starshield hardware.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Perform surface plate work and inspection of machined aerospace and commercial parts to verify flatness, parallelism, and overall conformity.
• Inspect supplied product according to the applicable drawing and or work order specifications to verify that it conforms to all design requirements.
• Conduct in-process inspection, including visual and or dimensional inspection of precision machined parts throughout production runs.
• Interact proactively with production to improve products and reduce defects by providing timely feedback and suggested adjustments.
• Communicate and help resolve quality related issues across teams to maintain schedule and ensure compliance.
• Document non-conformances in accordance with prescribed procedures and processes, capturing all relevant details for traceability.
• Support quality management system policies and procedure documentation, assess compliance to company and industry standards, and initiate and lead continual improvement and Lean manufacturing initiatives.
• Work in a cross functional environment utilizing calipers, micrometers, height and bore gauges, optical comparators, and more to complete inspections.
• Perform documentation review and verification of certifications, specifications, and conformance to design and specification requirements.
• Use blueprint reading skills to interpret detailed drawings, notes, and geometric controls as part of daily inspection tasks.
• Apply geometric dimensioning and tolerancing principles to validate part characteristics against defined requirements.
• Maintain inspection records, reports, and logs in a clear, accurate, and timely manner for audit and traceability purposes.
• Assist in the implementation and monitoring of quality metrics to drive operational excellence within the Starshield production environment.
• Support the execution of quality plans and inspection strategies to meet program schedules and performance objectives.

Requirements

• Hold a high school diploma or equivalency certificate as the minimum educational requirement.
• Possess 2+ years of quality inspection experience in a machine shop or manufacturing environment to demonstrate foundational skills.
• Bring 1+ years of experience with blueprint reading and or GD&T (geometric dimensioning and tolerancing) to interpret engineering specifications.
• Be capable of lifting up to 25 lbs., unassisted as required during routine inspection and material handling tasks.
• Be able to stand for extended periods while performing inspections and working at production stations.
• Willingness to work overtime and weekends as needed to meet critical deadlines and production commitments.
• Must be willing to work onsite in Hawthorne, CA, as remote work is not considered for this role.
• Demonstrate the ability to follow documented procedures and maintain compliance with quality standards.
• Show attention to detail and accuracy when performing inspections and recording results.
• Be prepared to support safety and quality initiatives that align with SpaceX operational expectations.

Nice to have

• 5+ years of quality inspection experience in a machine shop or manufacturing environment for advanced proficiency.
• 3+ years of experience with blueprint reading and or GD&T (geometric dimensioning and tolerancing) for complex part configurations.
• Understanding of ISO 9001/AS9100 quality management systems to align with industry best practices.
• Solid computer skills in Microsoft Word, Outlook and Excel to manage documentation and analyze data.
• Ability to review drawings and identify improper callouts or datum structures according to ASME Y14.5.
• Thorough understanding of all layout inspection tools including surface plates, height gages, indicators, calipers, micrometers, gage blocks, thread gages, and related measurement equipment.

Practical notes

• Hours, travel, visa, or deadlines are defined by the source text and are subject to change based on operational needs.
• Work is conducted onsite in Hawthorne, California, with no remote work options available.
• Willingness to work overtime and weekends may be required to satisfy critical project timelines.
• Compliance with SpaceX policies and safety requirements is mandatory for all personnel in this role.