Lead Quality Assurance Inspector

DescriptionJOB PURPOSE:

The Lead Inspector is responsible for performing inspection activities while providing day-to-day leadership and technical guidance to the inspection team. This role serves as the primary resource for inspection processes, quality standards, and compliance requirements, ensuring products meet customer, regulatory, and company quality expectations. The Lead Inspector assists with coordinating workflow, training personnel, resolving quality issues, and supporting continuous improvement initiatives.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES:

Perform in-process, final, and receiving inspections in accordance with company procedures and customer specifications
Lead and coordinate daily inspection activities to ensure priorities and production schedules are met
Provide guidance and technical support to inspectors regarding quality standards, procedures, and inspection methods
Train, mentor, and onboard new inspectors and support ongoing employee development.
Review inspection reports, records, and documentation for accuracy and completeness
Assist in investigating nonconformances, customer complaints, and internal quality issues
Support corrective and preventive action (CAPA) activities and verify effectiveness of implemented actions
Serve as the primary escalation point for inspection-related questions and concerns
Coordinate with Production, Engineering, Manufacturing, and Quality Management to resolve quality issues and improve processes
Ensure compliance with customer requirements, company procedures, and applicable regulatory standards
Monitor inspection workload and assist in prioritizing resources to meet operational needs
Participate in audits and support audit preparation activities
Identify opportunities for process improvement and recommend actions to improve quality, efficiency, and compliance
Assist management with performance feedback and evaluation of inspection personnel
Maintain a safe and organized work environment in accordance with company policies

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Provide daily direction and work assignment coordination for inspectors
Promote consistency in inspection practices across all shifts and areas
Foster a culture of quality, accountability, and continuous improvement
Act as the Quality Department representative in the absence of Quality Management when appropriate
Support employee engagement, training, and development initiatives

QualificationsEXPERIENCE, SKILLS, EDUCATION AND TRAINING:

Education

High School Diploma or GED required
Associate degree or technical certification in Quality, Manufacturing, Engineering, or related field preferred

Experience

5+ years of inspection or quality assurance experience in a manufacturing environment
Previous experience training, mentoring, or leading team members preferred
Experience with quality management systems and manufacturing processes

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Strong understanding of quality inspection techniques and methodologies
Ability to interpret engineering drawings, specifications, blueprints, and work instructions
Knowledge of GD&T, inspection equipment, and measurement techniques
Familiarity with root cause analysis and corrective action processes
Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Ability to prioritize multiple tasks and work independently
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and quality documentation systems

Equipment Used

Calipers
Micrometers
Height gauges
Optical comparators
CMMs (coordinate measuring machines)
Various precision measurement instruments and quality management software

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

First-pass yield and defect reduction
Inspection accuracy
On-time completion of inspections
Internal and external audit performance
Training completion and employee development
Reduction in quality escapes and customer complaints
Continuous improvement participation and results

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Physical Requirements

Ability to stand, walk, and inspect products for extended periods
Ability to lift up to 25 pounds occasionally
Visual acuity sufficient to perform detailed inspections and measurements

Other Special Requirements

Support cross functional teams and departments as required
Perform job duties in accordance to ISO 13485/9001 including ISO audits