Quality Control Inspector I/II - San Luis Obispo, CA

At Zone 5 Technologies, we're redefining what's possible in unmanned aircraft systems. Our team of engineers and innovators is developing cutting-edge autonomous solutions that push the boundaries of UAS technology - solving complex challenges that matter.

We're building the future of UAS capabilities, and we're looking for exceptional talent to join us. If you're driven by hard problems, energized by rapid innovation, and ready to make an impact on next-generation flight systems, you belong here.

Role Summary 

The Quality Control Inspector, Level I/II, performs production inspections of hardware in accordance with established procedures, engineering drawings, specifications, and quality standards. Inspectors are authorized to perform inspection activities only within the inspection environments for which they are trained and/or formally qualified. The role supports product conformity, traceability, and manufacturing flow while working closely with Quality Engineering, Manufacturing, Engineering, and Operations. 

Key Responsibilities 

Daily Inspection Execution & Production 

Level I 

• Perform assigned visual, dimensional, and functional inspections within qualified areas using established inspection plans, procedures, and acceptance criteria, with guidance from Quality personnel as needed. 

• Use applicable inspection equipment correctly and maintain accurate inspection discipline in support of production priorities. 

• Escalate inspection issues, unclear requirements, and potential nonconformances through established channels. 

Level II 

• Inclusive of all Level I responsibilities and adding the following: 

• Independently perform receiving, in-process, and/or final inspection activities within qualified areas with limited routine supervision. 

• Inspect more complex, precision, or higher-risk hardware and apply established acceptance criteria with greater autonomy. 

• Communicate inspection status, risks, and production impacts to appropriate Quality and Production personnel. 

Environment-Specific Inspection & Hardware Qualification 

Level I 

• Perform inspections within formally trained and qualified Avionics and/or Mechanical / Structures environments. 

• Inspect assigned hardware using applicable dimensional, visual, electrical, optical, and/or workmanship inspection methods. 

• Maintain proficiency in inspection methods and equipment applicable to the assigned area with training and support as required. 

Level II 

• Inclusive of all Level I responsibilities and adding the following: 

• Perform inspection of more complex hardware and characteristics within qualified environments. 

• Apply a broader range of inspection methods, equipment, and applicable workmanship or industry standards. 

Engineering Drawing Interpretation & Inspection Requirements 

Level I 

• Read and apply engineering drawings, specifications, travelers, inspection instructions, and applicable workmanship standards within assigned qualification areas, with support when requirements are unclear or require interpretation. 

• For Avionics and/or Electronics inspection activities, apply applicable IPC-A-610 and/or IPC/WHMA-A-620 requirements when referenced by the inspection plan, drawing, specification, or other governing documentation. 

• Verify applicable revision and configuration requirements. 

• Identify unclear, conflicting, or potentially nonconforming requirements and escalate them for clarification. 

Level II 

• Inclusive of all Level I responsibilities and adding the following: 

• Independently interpret drawings, specifications, inspection instructions, and basic GD&T, as applicable to assigned inspection activities. 

• Independently apply applicable IPC-A-610, IPC/WHMA-A-620, and/or other workmanship standards when required by the inspection plan or governing documentation. 

• Apply established engineering and quality requirements to routine inspection plan criteria with limited assistance. 

• Recognize requirements that require Engineering or Quality interpretation or disposition and escalate them appropriately. 

Inspection Documentation, Traceability & Product Quality 

Level I 

• Accurately document inspection results and maintain product identification, configuration, and traceability in accordance with established procedures. 

• Identify, document, and contain suspected nonconformances and escalate conditions outside established acceptance criteria. 

• Complete inspection documentation for Mechanical / Structures, Avionics, and/or Electronics activities as applicable, and escalate to leadership when unable to achieve valid results. 

Level II 

• Inclusive of all Level I responsibilities and adding the following: 

• Independently maintain inspection records and traceability with limited oversight. 

• Accept or reject product within qualified areas and established authority. 

• Initiate and document nonconformances in accordance with applicable procedures when inspection results do not yield clear or valid results. 

Quality, Compliance & Inspection Standards 

Level I 

• Follow applicable Quality Management System, safety, FOD, cleanliness, ESD, and inspection requirements. 

• Apply applicable engineering and workmanship standards, including IPC-A-610 and/or IPC/WHMA-A-620 for Avionics and/or Electronics activities when specified. 

Level II 

• Inclusive of all Level I responsibilities and adding the following: 

• Support limited specialized inspections, including basic first article, verification, and/or process verification activities as assigned. 

• Enforce Quality, workmanship, and inspection requirements in existing work centers with limited supervision. 

Cross-Functional Communication & Inspection Support 

Level I 

• Communicate inspection results, issues, and questions through established channels. 

• Work effectively with Quality, Manufacturing, Engineering, and Operations in support of assigned inspection activities. 

• Provide inspection input regarding methods, equipment, and practical inspection requirements when requested. 

Level II 

• Inclusive of all Level I responsibilities and adding the following: 

• Independently communicate inspection results, quality risks, and production impacts to appropriate stakeholders. 

• Coordinate routine inspection issues with Production, Quality, and/or Engineering with limited supervisory involvement. 

• Provide greater input on inspection methods, equipment, and requirements for new or revised hardware and processes. 

Required Qualifications 

Level I 

• High school diploma or equivalent; technical, vocational, or hands-on manufacturing training is preferred. 

• 0–2 years of manufacturing, inspection, electronics, machining, assembly, or related technical experience; equivalent hands-on training may be considered. 

• Ability to read and follow basic engineering drawings, specifications, inspection instructions, travelers, and other applicable work instructions with appropriate guidance. 

• Ability to use basic inspection equipment and accurately document inspection results and traceability. 

• Strong attention to detail and ability to recognize and escalate questionable or nonconforming conditions. 

• Ability to work effectively with Production, Quality, Engineering, and Operations while following established procedures and escalation paths. 

Level II 

• Inclusive of all Level I qualifications and adding the following: 

• 1–4 years of manufacturing, aerospace, high-reliability, or related inspection experience. 

• Proficiency in engineering drawing interpretation and basic GD&T IAW ASME Y14.5 applicable to assigned inspection activities. 

• Working knowledge of applicable inspection and workmanship standards, including IPC-A-610 and/or IPC/WHMA-A-620 for Avionics and/or Electronics activities, or appropriate dimensional inspection methods for Mechanical / Structures. 

• Demonstrated ability to perform assigned inspections independently and exercise sound acceptance/rejection judgment within qualified areas. 

• Ability to interpret routine inspection requirements and resolve or appropriately escalate questions with limited supervision. 

 Preferred Qualifications 

Level I 

• Technical, vocational, or hands-on training related to manufacturing, inspection, electronics, machining, composites, mechanical assembly, or a related discipline. 

• Experience in aerospace, defense, medical, or other regulated manufacturing environments. 

• Familiarity with basic dimensional, visual, optical, electrical, and/or workmanship inspection methods and electronic quality records. 

Level II 

• Inclusive of all Level I qualifications and adding the following: 

• Prior experience inspecting precision hardware, complex assemblies, or other high-reliability products. 

• Working familiarity with applicable IPC-A-610, IPC/WHMA-A-620, AS9102 First Article Inspection, or other inspection-specific industry standards. 

• Additional qualifications, certifications, or training such as ASQ Certified Quality Inspector (CQI), ASQ Certified Quality Technician (CQT), ISO 9001 or AS9100 internal auditor training, GD&T training to ASME Y14.5, Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing Professional (GDTP) training, NDT training or certification, or other inspection-specific technical programs. 

Level I: $22.59 - $27.89/hr. 

Level II: $27.90 - $33.20/hr.  

What's in it for you:

Benefits: 

• Competitive total compensation package 
• Comprehensive benefit package options include medical, dental, vision, life, and more.
• 401k with company-match 
• 3 weeks of paid time off each year
• 40 hours of sick time
• 12 annual company holidays

Why Join Zone 5 Technologies?

• Innovative Environment: Work on cutting-edge technology that is shaping the future of defense and aerospace.
• Collaborative Culture: Join a team of passionate professionals dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
• Career Growth: Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.

If you are passionate about unmanned aircraft technology and want to be a part of a dynamic and growing company, we would love to hear from you. Apply today and join the Zone 5 Technologies team! 

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.

Zone 5 Technologies is a federal contractor and participates in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. As required by law, we will verify the identity and employment authorization of all new employees using the E-Verify system. Learn more about your rights and responsibilities under E-Verify: https://www.e-verify.gov.