Lead Quality Inspector (2nd Shift)

Anduril Anduril · Defense · Santa Ana, CA · Manufacturing : Quality Control : Production Operations

Anduril Industries, a defense technology company, is seeking a Lead Quality Inspector for their manufacturing team. This role involves leading and mentoring a team of Quality Inspectors to produce Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) and other defense assets. Responsibilities include coordinating team activities, collaborating with cross-functional teams, driving continuous improvement, performing technical inspections (in-process, final, First Article Inspections), and problem-solving in production environments. Requires a high school diploma, 3+ years of experience in aerospace/defense/military hardware testing, and US Person status. Preferred qualifications include aerospace/defense experience, technical domain expertise (structural, avionics, propulsion), leadership background, proficiency in GD&T and precision tools, understanding of AS9100/ISO 9001, and strong computer/communication skills.

What you'd actually do

  1. Lead & Mentor: Coordinate daily team activities, schedules, and workflows. Assist inspectors in understanding work procedures, maintaining accurate work-order clocking, and meeting strict performance and safety standards.
  2. Collaborate Cross-Functional: Interface directly with Shipping, Receiving, Production, Quality Engineering, and Planning to rapidly resolve bottlenecks and support business needs.
  3. Drive Continuous Improvement: Ensure clean, organized work areas (5S). Implement training programs to foster a highly skilled, cross-functional inspector workforce.
  4. Technical Inspection: Perform and oversee in-process, final, and First Article Inspections (FAI) using advanced metrology tools, mechanical drawings, and blueprints.
  5. Problem Solve: Navigate challenging production situations by leveraging your technical knowledge and quality principles to determine the most constructive path forward.

Skills

Required

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • 3+ years of experience in an aerospace, defense, military, or high-reliability hardware testing environment
  • U.S. Person Status

Nice to have

  • Background working in fast-paced, high-standard aerospace/defense environments
  • Hands-on inspection experience with structural, avionics, or propulsion manufacturing
  • Demonstrated experience leading, mentoring, or guiding teams
  • Proficient in reading and interpreting complex engineering drawings, blueprints, and specifications using ASME Y14.5 GD&T
  • Skillful use of precision hand tools (micrometers, calipers, scales, gauges, height gauges) and CMM equipment
  • Strong understanding of AS9100/ISO 9001 Quality Management Systems
  • Ability to detect design and drawing flaws early in the production cycle
  • Strong computer skills (Microsoft Excel, Outlook, Word)
  • Ability to seamlessly multitask between production line checks and formal FAIs
  • Exceptional attention to detail
  • Work efficiency
  • Ability to clearly communicate quality standards to influence engineering and production stakeholders

What the JD emphasized

  • U.S. Person Status is required as this position needs to access controlled data.