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Sr. Quality Inspector

Oceanbotics, Irvine, CA, United States


RJE Oceanbotics is seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Quality Inspector to join our Manufacturing team in Irvine, California. In this role, you will be responsible for ensuring that our professional underwater remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) and related components meet rigorous quality standards required by our government, military, oil and gas, and critical infrastructure clients. You will work closely with engineering staff and production personnel to identify defects, enforce compliance with specifications, and drive continuous quality improvement across our manufacturing operations.

Key Responsibilities
Inspection & Testing

Maintain and improve the company’s QMS in alignment with ISO 9001 and applicable customer requirements

Develop and update procedures, work instructions and quality documentation

Perform in-process and final inspection of ROV assemblies, sub-assemblies, electronic systems, pressure housings, thrusters, tether systems, and related components

Conduct dimensional, functional, and visual inspections using precision measurement tools, gauges, and test equipment

Execute acceptance testing procedures in accordance with engineering drawings, product specifications, and contractual requirements

Perform and document pressure/leak testing on underwater housings and sealing systems

Verify electrical and electronic assemblies against schematics, wiring diagrams, and inspection criteria

Documentation & Compliance

Maintain accurate and complete inspection records, non-conformance reports (NCRs), and corrective action documentation

Participate in Material Review Board (MRB) activities and disposition of nonconforming product

Ensure compliance with AS9100, ISO 9001, MIL-SPEC, and applicable government/defense quality standards

Support First Article Inspection (FAI) processes and documentation packages

Prepare and submit quality data reports, trend analyses, and key performance indicators to management

Assist with the development and revision of inspection procedures, work instructions, and quality plans

Non-Conformance & Corrective Action

Identify, tag, segregate, and document non-conforming materials and assemblies

Initiate and track corrective and preventive action (CAPA) requests with production and engineering teams

Conduct root cause analysis investigations for quality escapes and recurring defects

Collaborate with engineering and manufacturing to implement and validate process improvements

Supplier & Receiving Quality

Perform incoming inspection of purchased parts, materials, and vendor-supplied assemblies

Evaluate supplier quality documentation and certificates of conformance

Support supplier qualification activities and communicate quality findings to the Procurement team

Partner with the manufacturing team and engineering team on design-for-manufacturability and quality initiatives

Participate in internal audits and support external customer and government audits as required

Champion a culture of quality and continuous improvement across the manufacturing floor

Provide quality guidance and mentorship to production assemblers and technicians

Qualifications
Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Technology, or a closely related field required

Equivalent combination of education and directly relevant experience may be considered

Experience

Minimum 5 years of progressive quality control or quality assurance experience in a precision manufacturing environment

Demonstrated experience inspecting electromechanical assemblies, electronic systems, and/or undersea/marine equipment strongly preferred

Prior experience in defense, aerospace, or government contract manufacturing is highly desirable

Familiarity with underwater systems, pressure vessels, or ROV/UUV technologies is a significant plus

Technical Skills

Proficiency with precision measurement instruments: calipers, micrometers, height gauges, CMM, and optical comparators

Solid understanding of GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing) and engineering drawing interpretation

Working knowledge of AS9100, ISO 9001, MIL-SPEC standards, and government quality requirements

Experience with non-conformance and CAPA systems; familiarity with ERP/MES quality modules

Competence with Microsoft Office Suite; experience with quality management software a plus

Certifications (Preferred)

ASQ Certified Quality Inspector (CQI), Certified Quality Technician (CQT), or Certified Quality Engineer (CQE)

IPC-A-610 or IPC J-STD-001 certification for electronic assemblies

Six Sigma Green Belt or higher a plus

Core Competencies

Exceptional attention to detail and commitment to accuracy

Hands-on, willing to spend time on the production floor

Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities with a systematic approach

Effective written and verbal communication skills; ability to document findings clearly

Self-motivated, organized, and able to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment

Collaborative team player with a proactive, solutions-oriented mindset

Highest level of integrity and professional standards

Work Environment & Physical Requirements
This position is based at RJE Oceanbotics' manufacturing facility in Irvine, California. The role requires regular work on the production floor, which may involve standing for extended periods, lifting components up to 50 lbs, and occasional work in confined or wet test environments. Personal protective equipment (PPE) will be required in applicable areas. Occasional travel to supplier facilities or customer sites may be required.

Competitive salary commensurate with experience

401(k) retirement plan with company match

Paid time off

Paid company holidays

Professional development and certification reimbursement

Opportunity to work on cutting-edge underwater robotics technology supporting national security and critical infrastructure missions

About RJE Oceanbotics
RJE Oceanbotics is an Irvine, California-based manufacturer of professional underwater ROVs trusted by government agencies, military special operations units, oil and gas operators, and infrastructure inspection teams worldwide. Our systems are engineered for performance and reliability in the most demanding subsea environments. We are a growing team committed to quality, innovation, and mission success.

RJE Oceanbotics is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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