Metrologist / First Article Inspector

Are you passionate about measurement science, quality systems, and ensuring products meet the highest standards? We are seeking an experienced Metrologist / First Article Inspector to play a critical role in supporting Quality, Engineering, and Production teams through advanced inspection, calibration, measurement analysis, and quality planning activities.

This position is ideal for a highly analytical professional with experience in metrology, first article inspection, calibration systems, and ISO-regulated manufacturing environments.

Scheduling for this role is very flexible. Could be full time, part time, or weekends. 

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as a technical resource to Quality Assurance, Engineering, Production, and Customers regarding interpretation of drawings, specifications, and measurement requirements.
• Perform and develop First Article Inspections (FAI) for new and existing products.
• Conduct capability studies and provide measurement data to support quality and engineering initiatives.
• Perform Gage R&R studies and identify sources of measurement variation and uncertainty.
• Develop, improve, and validate measurement methods to increase accuracy and precision.
• Advise teams on resolving complex measurement and inspection challenges.
• Assist in the development of calibration methods and techniques based on metrology principles and product requirements.
• Support the design, evaluation, calibration, and selection of approved measuring and test equipment.
• Maintain calibration and preventive maintenance systems for measuring and test equipment, as required.

Quality & Inspection

• Review inspections completed by other quality team members to ensure consistency and compliance.
• Participate in quality planning activities and cross-functional project meetings for new product launches.
• Develop inspection methodologies and work instructions for ongoing in-process inspections.
• Create supporting visual aids, documentation, and inspection criteria as needed.
• Provide engineering teams with inspection data, analysis, and reporting tools.
• Effectively operate a variety of inspection and measurement equipment, including manual and automated systems.

SQF-Certified Facility Responsibilities

• Demonstrate understanding of cGMP requirements and Good Hygiene Practices.
• Support HACCP, SQF, Food Safety, Food Defense, and Food Fraud programs.
• Identify and report food safety and product quality concerns.
• Initiate actions to prevent nonconforming products and processes.
• Execute product hold procedures when required.
• Ensure appropriate containment of nonconforming materials until corrective actions are completed.
• Notify Quality Management of any food safety, quality, equipment, or regulatory concerns.
• Perform sanitation-related responsibilities as assigned.
• Maintain compliance with all company quality and food safety policies.

Qualifications

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in a related technical field, or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
• Minimum 6 years of experience in Quality Assurance within a manufacturing environment.
• Minimum 2 years of experience working within ISO 9001 and/or ISO 13485 certified quality systems.
• Strong understanding of quality inspection methodologies and measurement systems.
• Experience managing calibration systems.
• Experience conducting First Article Inspections (FAI).
• Advanced knowledge of mathematics and statistical analysis.
• Experience in medical device, pharmaceutical, plastics, or other regulated manufacturing environments.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong knowledge of calibration systems and metrology principles.
• Experience with mechanical inspection methods and gauging systems.
• Proficiency using optical vision systems, automated inspection equipment, and Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMM).
• Strong blueprint reading skills and expertise in Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T).
• Ability to interpret customer drawings, specifications, and technical requirements.
• Understanding of process validation principles and protocols.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency with computer systems and quality software applications.
• Ability to read, write, and comprehend technical and operational documentation.

Benefits

• Health care insurance benefits available first of the month following 60 days of employment. Thirty (30) hours worked per week must be averaged in order to maintain coverage. 401k enrollment is available per the Secure Act guidelines. Earned Sick and Safe time is accrued and can be used per the State of MN guidelines. #IND345