Job Title: Quality Technician I Job Description The Quality Technician I supports the quality team across multiple laboratory phases to ensure products meet rigorous internal, customer, and industry standards. This role performs hands-on testing, inspection, and sample preparation using a wide range of laboratory and inspection equipment, maintains accurate documentation and traceability, and follows established test plans and procedures in a lab environment. Responsibilities + Support the Layup Phase by documenting incoming material traceability information in the database, using a ply cutter to kit prepreg plies, laying up prepreg panels for acceptance testing according to documented test plans, and laying up test coupons with resin films, foams, and other aerospace materials. + Program cures into digital ovens and autoclaves, operate the equipment according to procedures, and accurately record collected process data. + Support the Physicals Phase by using scales, calipers, and other devices to measure prepreg and other samples, operating ovens and furnaces to perform prepreg testing, using acids such as acetone and NMP for testing, and visually or otherwise inspecting prepreg specimens to defined criteria. + Support the Sample Cutting Phase by applying machining best practices for composite materials, working to industry-standard tolerances for coupon geometry, using calipers and micrometers to verify that cut coupons meet required tolerances, preparing samples through abrading, cleaning, and adhesive application, and maintaining coupon traceability throughout multiple machining operations. + Support the Mechanical Phase by using calipers and micrometers to report test sample dimensions, ensuring test coupons meet required tolerances, operating Instron test frames to test specimens, using Blue Hill software to perform testing, and conducting mechanical tests on prepared samples in accordance with ASTM and other industry standards. + Troubleshoot minor issues with mechanical test setups and test frame configurations and apply strain gauges to the surface of test coupons as required. + Support the FV/Density Phase by using calipers, micrometers, and scales to report test sample dimensions, working with acids such as sulfuric, nitric, and MEK to prepare or test samples, operating ovens and furnaces to cure or perform burn-offs, using a CEM microwave digestion system for acid digestion, and operating a pycnometer to perform density testing. + Support the Analytical Phase by using calipers and micrometers to report test sample dimensions, operating ovens and furnaces for testing, and ensuring test coupons meet required tolerances. + Perform analytical testing using Rheometer and Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA), Thermal Mechanical Analysis (TMA), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), and Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) to ASTM and other industry standards. + Perform routine validations on analytical equipment, troubleshoot minor issues related to equipment configurations and sample loading, and ensure all testing follows documented procedures. + Support the Dimensional Inspection Phase by inspecting incoming and outgoing products to engineering specifications using basic test and measuring equipment, including handheld gauges such as calipers, micrometers, height gauges, pin gauges, and thread gauges. + Operate Coordinate Measurement Machines (CMM) and Portable Coordinate Measurement Machines (PCMM), and, when applicable, use PCDMIS CAD++ inspection software. + Work with CAD models (including IGES, STEP, SolidWorks, and Catia), read and interpret blueprints, and apply Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) according to ASME Y14.5 to understand critical, major, and minor characteristics. + Measure parts to determine if they meet print specifications, inspect first parts against each measurement on the print, verify acceptable tolerances, and document completed inspections on corresponding inspection records. + Perform visual and dimensional inspection of purchased parts, tight-tolerance machined parts, stamped and fabricated parts, components, assemblies, and materials, including first article, incoming, in-process, and final inspections on new and revised parts. + Generate, distribute, and file inspection reports as required, document nonconforming products, attach appropriate nonconformance tags, and ensure timely completion of all associated paperwork, including nonconformance tags. + Complete and maintain all documentation in accordance with customer and internal requirements, and take responsibility for the completeness and accuracy of all work performed. + Follow safety procedures for personal protective equipment (PPE), properly dispose of hazardous waste, and maintain a clean working environment through a u201cclean as you gou201d approach. + Use Microsoft Excel workbooks and Microsoft Access to record and report data, accurately read and follow written lab request instructions, and communicate discrepancies or nonconformances to supervisors and quality engineers. + Apply a strong ethic regarding data integrity, use FIFO (first in, first out) principles to self-schedule assignments, record and document work performed each day, and send pass-down emails to supervisors when working off shifts. + Maintain excellent attendance, support overtime, weekend, and off-shift work when needed, and work collaboratively with team members to meet quality and production goals. Essential Skills + Minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent. + At least 2 years of experience working with composites, production, or quality. + Experience with inspection, quality control, visual inspection, and quality checks in a production or lab setting. + Ability to operate calipers, micrometers, scales, height gauges, pin gauges, thread gauges, and other basic test and measuring equipment. + Ability to operate Coordinate Measurement Machines (CMM) and Portable Coordinate Measurement Machines (PCMM). + Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and specifications, including application of ASME Y14.5 Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T). + Familiarity with composite materials, particularly carbon fiber and fiberglass composites. + Knowledge of time and temperature sensitive (TATS) materials. + Ability to use Microsoft Office applications, including basic skills in Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Access, to record and report data. + Ability to read and follow written lab request instructions, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and customer specifications. + Understanding of basic laboratory terminology and units, including weights and measurements in both metric and standard systems. + Ability to follow written and verbal instructions for machine and equipment operation and communicate clearly in English, both verbally and in writing. + Demonstrated strong ethic regarding data integrity and documentation accuracy. + Ability to work effectively as part of a team and maintain work areas in a neat, orderly, and safe manner. + Capability to lift up to 25 pounds as part of routine job duties. + Excellent attendance and flexibility to work overtime, weekends, and off shifts when needed. Additional Skills & Qualifications + Experience working with carbon fiber and fiberglass composite materials in a laboratory or production environment. + Familiarity with machining best practices for composite materials and industry-standard tolerances for test coupon geometry. + Experience using ovens, furnaces, and autoclaves for curing, burn-offs, and other testing processes. + Experience handling and using laboratory acids and solvents such as acetone, NMP, sulfuric acid, nitric acid, and MEK in a controlled environment. + Experience with mechanical testing equipment, including Instron test frames and Blue Hill software. + Experience performing mechanical tests to ASTM and other industry standards. + Experience with Rheometer, Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA), Thermal Mechanical Analysis (TMA), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), and Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). + Experience performing routine equipment validations and troubleshooting minor issues with test setups, equipment configurations, and sample loading. + Knowledge of PCDMIS CAD++ inspection software. + Familiarity with CAD models such as IGES, STEP, SolidWorks, and Catia. + Experience working under Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) or similar quality systems. + Ability to use FIFO (first in, first out) principles for self-scheduling assignments and managing workflow. + Ability to document work performed in clear pass-down communications for off-shift coordination. Why Work Here? Employees benefit from a comprehensive and competitive total rewards package that supports their health, financial security, and work-life balance. The organization offers comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans, along with FSA and HSA options to help manage healthcare expenses. Paid holidays, paid time off, and paid family and parental leave provide meaningful time away from work. A 401(k) plan with company match, life insurance, AD&D coverage, and short-term and long-term disability insurance support long-term financial and personal security. Team members can take advantage of tuition reimbursement to further their education, gym memberships to support wellness, and regular employee engagement events that foster a collaborative and inclusive culture. A referral bonus program rewards employees who help bring great talent into the organization, and additional benefits further enhance the overall employee experience. Work Environment This role operates primarily in a lab environment that focuses on testing, inspection, and sample preparation for composite and related materials. The work involves frequent use of laboratory and inspection equipment such as ovens, furnaces, autoclaves, scales, calipers, micrometers, CMM and PCMM systems, rheometers, DMA, TMA, DSC, HPLC, FTIR, and various mechanical test frames. Team members follow established safety procedures, including proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and correct handling and disposal of hazardous materials and waste. The workspace is maintained in a clean, orderly, and safe condition under a u201cclean as you gou201d mindset. Work hours may include overtime, weekends, and off shifts to meet operational needs, and effective communication through pass-down emails supports coordination across shifts. Job Type & Location This is a Contract position based out of Fairfield, CA. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $25.00 - $36.00/hr. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your jobclassification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may besubject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefitsavailable for this temporary role may include the following: u2022 Medical, dental & vision u2022 Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital u2022 401(k) Retirement Plan u2013 Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available u2022 Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) u2022 Short and long-term disability u2022 Health Spending Account (HSA) u2022 Transportation benefits u2022 Employee Assistance Program u2022 Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave) Workplace Type This is a fully onsite position in Fairfield,CA. Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Apr 30, 2026. About Aerotek: We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry u2013 from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companiesu2019 construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow. Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts. The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.
Job Title
Quality Technician