Quality Control Inspector III - Thermal Spray Coatings Machine Shop

Job Title: Quality Control Inspector III
Classification: Full-time, Hourly Non-Exempt
Reports To: Quality & Safety Manager, Surface Technologies US
Location: Kymera – CASL Houston

ABOUT THE COMPANY:

Kymera International:

Kymera International is a leading global producer of specialty metal powders, pastes, and granules, catering to industries such as aerospace, defense, automotive, and electronics. Our mission is to drive innovation while adhering to the highest standards of sustainability, operational excellence, and ethical business practices. We are committed to continuous improvement and regulatory compliance on a global scale.

Job Overview

The Quality Control Inspector III is a senior-level role responsible for leading quality inspections, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, driving process improvements, and mentoring junior inspectors. This role has significant responsibility for auditing, documentation, and quality assurance across the manufacturing process.

Responsibilities

• Lead visual and dimensional inspections of mechanical parts, machined components, and thermal spray coatings to ensure full compliance with engineering, customer, and regulatory specifications.
• Utilize advanced precision measurement tools including calipers, micrometers, bore gauges, depth gauges, height gauges, dial indicators, surface profile gauges, surface roughness testers, and coating thickness gauges.
• Verify dimensions, tolerances, surface profiles, and coating thicknesses per drawings, specifications, and customer requirements.
• Conduct root cause investigations, support troubleshooting of coating or machining defects, and drive corrective and preventive actions.
• Maintain accurate inspection records, nonconformance reports, corrective actions, and full traceability documentation.
• Serve as a primary liaison and support internal and external audits, including ISO 9001, AS9100, and safety inspections.
• Verify calibration status, proper use, and handling of all inspection and measurement equipment.
• Support FOD prevention, process control, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Review and interpret complex engineering drawings, specifications, and quality plans.
• Prepare comprehensive reports on inspection results, trends, quality risks, and corrective actions for management.
• Provide training, mentoring, and guidance to Inspectors I and II and other production personnel on inspection techniques and quality expectations.
• Collaborate with engineers, machinists, production teams, and suppliers to resolve complex quality issues.
• Follow all facility and OSHA safety requirements related to machining operations and thermal spray processes, including PPE, hazard communication, and equipment safety.
• Report unsafe conditions, near misses, and potential risks immediately.

Required Skills and Abilities

• Expert proficiency with mechanical and precision inspection tools and techniques.
• Advanced blueprint and technical drawing interpretation skills.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and documentation skills.
• Experience supporting audits, performing root cause analysis, and driving corrective actions.
• Ability to lead quality initiatives and provide mentorship to team members.
• Strong collaboration and communication skills with cross-functional teams.

Education and Experience

• High school diploma required; associate degree in machining, engineering, or related field preferred.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in quality control within a machine shop, repair facility, or manufacturing environment.
• Demonstrated proficiency with precision measurement tools, including calipers, micrometers, bore gauges, surface profile gauges, and coating thickness gauges.
• Strong working knowledge of ISO 9001:2015 and AS9100 standards.
• Thermal spray coatings experience strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated leadership experience in mentoring or training quality team members.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and quality requirements.
• Ability to work independently, lead by example, and communicate effectively in written and verbal formats.
• Legally eligible for employment in the United States; must meet US person requirements where applicable.
• Ability to pass required background check, drug screen, and health screening.
• Possession of a valid driver’s license and passport and ability to travel as required.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, and perform repetitive manual tasks for extended periods.
• Strength to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 pounds unassisted, repeatedly throughout a shift.
• Ability to perform physical tasks, including bending, kneeling, crouching, reaching overhead, and climbing ladders or stairs, as needed.
• Capability to pass a respiratory medical evaluation, including hearing and vision exams, and meet all necessary physical qualifications.
• Ability to wear and work comfortably in required personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves and steel-toe boots, for prolonged periods.
• Adaptability to work in diverse environments, such as high temperatures, confined spaces, and areas with potential exposure to dust, fumes, and noise.
• Coordination and manual dexterity to safely operate machinery, tools, and equipment while maintaining focus on ergonomics and safety.

When requested by employees, and when possible, reasonable accommodation may be provided to help individuals with disabilities perform their essential job functions. Kymera is an Equal Opportunity Employer, encouraging diversity in the workplace. EOE: race/color/religion/sex/sexual orientation/gender identity/national origin/disability.