PRINCIPAL QUALITY TECHNICIAN - SR. QUALITY TECHNICIAN - Mechanical Systems - Quality Control

@ SOUTHWEST RESEARCH INSTITUTE
SOUTHWEST RESEARCH INSTITUTEsouthwestresearchinstitute.com

PRINCIPAL QUALITY TECHNICIAN - SR. QUALITY TECHNICIAN - Mechanical Systems - Quality Control

San Antonio, TX
Posted 4 days ago

About the job

R&D problem-solvers providing independent services to government and industry since 1947. The role focuses on inspecting complex parts, developing CMM programs, and supporting quality in high-precision manufacturing.

Requirements

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Technical training and on-the-job experience
  • 5-15 years quality inspection
  • Read blueprints and GD&T
  • CMM programming experience

Qualifications

  • Citizen and eligible for security clearance
  • Valid driver’s license
  • Experience with Calypso software
  • Experience in precision manufacturing
  • Strong attention to detail

Full job description

Who We Are:

We are R&D problem-solvers providing independent, premier services to government and industry clients; since 1947 we work toward the betterment of humankind, pushing the boundaries of science and technology to develop solutions. As a Quality Technician in Applied Power Division, you'll inspect custom components for critical R&D projects, working directly with machinists and engineers in a hands-on lab environment. Ability to obtain a security clearance is required. By joining our team, you will receive an additional $500.00 in your first paycheck (minus applicable taxes).

Objectives of this Role:

  • Ensure every part we ship meets the highest standards of our customers by owning the quality and dimensional integrity of complex, tight-tolerance components.
  • This role has a direct impact on customer satisfaction, company reputation, and product performance.
  • Leverage your inspection expertise, GD&T skills, and Zeiss CMM programming abilities to take ownership of complex dimensional verification.
  • You'll independently develop and maintain CMM programs that ensure precision, reliability, and confidence in every component we produce.
  • Work closely with production, engineering, and management to support quality, efficiency, and continuous improvement throughout the division.
  • Bring positivity, strong expertise, and a team-first mindset. Ready to learn new skills, take on challenges, and support the broader team wherever quality and problem-solving are needed.


Daily and Monthly Responsibilities:

  • Perform first-article, in-process, and final inspections using precision measurement tools to verify conformance to requirements.
  • Conduct and document FAIs and review manufacturing documentation for accuracy and compliance.
  • Create, maintain, and troubleshoot Zeiss CMM programs and perform first-article, in-process, and final inspections.
  • Interpret inspection data, develop methods for complex tight-tolerance features, and support continuous improvement in inspection efficiency and accuracy.
  • Complete and maintain inspection reports, quality records, and traceability documentation, and assist with calibration control.
  • Identify and track nonconforming material, support root cause and corrective actions, and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Support production with in-process inspections, trend analysis, and collaboration while identifying nonconforming material and aiding corrective actions.
  • Assist with audits, safety, and cross-functional teamwork to ensure quality and customer requirements are met.
  • Ability to use quality specific experience and knowledge to apply in decision making scenarios and work autonomously in requiring the direction of tasks and prioritization of projects.


Requirements:

  • Requires a high school diploma or equivalent.
  • Relevant technical training and substantial on-the-job experience in quality inspection.
  • 5-15 years: Quality inspection experience in a manufacturing environment, preferably with precision machined components.
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, specifications, and GD&T.
  • Hands-on experience programming with CALYPSO software and operating Zeiss CMMs.
  • Experience with CALYPSO Freeform and Curve add-ons are a plus.
  • Experience working in a job shop or high-mix, low-volume custom manufacturing environment is a plus.
  • A valid/clear driver's license is required.


Special Requirements:

Applicant selected will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. Applicant must be a U.S. citizen.

Job Locations: San Antonio, Texas

For more information about this division, visit the Applied Power home page.

For benefits information at our San Antonio location, click here .
For benefits information at all other locations, click here .

An Equal Employment Opportunity Employer: race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, and veteran status.
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