Job Title: First Article Quality Technician
Location: Columbia, SC
Employment Type: Contract (4–6 Month Assignment with Potential Extension)
Job Summary
Our client, a leading manufacturer supporting new product introductions and supplier quality initiatives, is seeking a Quality Technician for a contract opportunity in Columbia, SC. This position will support Supplier Quality Engineers with dimensional inspections, First Article Inspections (FAIs), PPAP activities, and quality documentation for both mechanical and electrical components.
The ideal candidate is a hands-on inspector who can confidently perform measurements using precision inspection equipment, interpret engineering drawings and GD&T requirements, and document inspection results with minimal supervision. This is an excellent opportunity for a quality professional who enjoys bench inspection work and wants to contribute to high-visibility product launch and supplier quality projects.
Required Skills & Qualifications
Must-have qualifications that candidates must meet to be considered:
● Minimum 3 years of experience as a Quality Technician, Quality Inspector, Receiving Inspector, or similar manufacturing quality role
● Proven experience using calipers, micrometers, height gauges, and other precision inspection equipment
● Experience performing dimensional inspections and documenting inspection results
● Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and blueprints
● Basic understanding of GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing)
● Experience supporting or performing First Article Inspections (FAIs)
● Basic experience using a multimeter for continuity testing and electrical verification
● Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office applications
● Must be authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship
Preferred Skills & Qualifications
● Experience supporting PPAP activities and supplier quality initiatives
● Experience creating or working from ballooned prints
● Experience with Oracle, ETQ, Windchill, SAP, or similar quality management systems
● Experience performing incoming receiving inspection
● Experience inspecting electrical assemblies, wiring harnesses, or electronic components
● Experience working in automotive, electronics, or industrial manufacturing environments
● CMM operation experience
● Knowledge of control plans, inspection plans, and quality documentation processes
Day-to-Day Responsibilities
● Perform visual and dimensional inspections on mechanical and electrical components
● Conduct and support First Article Inspections (FAIs) and PPAP inspection activities
● Measure components using calipers, micrometers, height gauges, and other inspection tools
● Verify dimensions and tolerances against engineering drawings and specifications
● Read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, and GD&T requirements
● Perform continuity testing and basic electrical inspections using a multimeter
● Document inspection results, measurement data, and quality findings in Excel and quality systems
● Communicate inspection results and non-conformance findings to Supplier Quality Engineers and manufacturing personnel
Physical and Environment Requirements
Physical expectations and working conditions associated with this role may include:
● Standing, walking, and performing inspections for extended periods throughout the workday
● Frequent use of precision inspection equipment and computer systems
● Occasional lifting of materials or components up to 35 pounds
● Working in a manufacturing, laboratory, warehouse, and quality inspection environment
● Exposure to production equipment, moving machinery, and manufacturing operations while following established safety procedures
Company Benefits & Culture
This opportunity offers the chance to work on critical new product introduction and supplier quality projects within a collaborative manufacturing environment. Team members are encouraged to contribute ideas, support continuous improvement efforts, and work closely with engineering and quality professionals.
● Competitive hourly compensation based on experience
● Opportunity to support high-visibility PPAP and product launch activities
● Collaborative team-oriented work environment
● Exposure to advanced quality systems and manufacturing processes
● Potential contract extension based on business needs and performance
● Opportunity to expand technical inspection and quality engineering support experience
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