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QUALITY TECHNICIAN - SR. QUALITY TECHNICIAN - Mechanical Systems - Quality Control

Southwest Research Institute

  • San Antonio, TX
  • Today

    Highlights

    As a Quality Technician in Applied Power Division, you’ll inspect custom components for critical R&D projects, working directly with machinists and engineers in a hands-on lab environment. Support the team by performing in-process inspections, communicating trends and issues, and collaborating with engineering to resolve quality concerns.

    Numbers & Facts

    LocationSan Antonio, TX
    IndustryEngineering Services
    Company Size2,000 to 2,499 employees
    Year Founded1947
    Websitehttp://www.swri.org/

    Description

    Who We Are:

    We are R&D problem-solvers providing independent, premier services to government and industry clients; since 1947 we work toward the betterment of humankind, pushing the boundaries of science and technology to develop solutions. As a Quality Technician in Applied Power Division, you’ll inspect custom components for critical R&D projects, working directly with machinists and engineers in a hands-on lab environment. Ability to obtain a security clearance is required. By joining our team, you will receive an additional $500.00 in your first paycheck (minus applicable taxes).

    Objectives of this Role:
    • Help ensure every part we deliver meets customer requirements and internal quality standards by performing accurate dimensional inspections on complex, tight-tolerance components.
    • Your work directly supports product performance and customer confidence.
    • Use your inspection experience, GD&T understanding, and familiarity with CMMs to perform and support dimensional verification activities.
    • Overtime, you’ll have the opportunity to expand your skills into advanced CMM inspection and programming.
    • Work closely with engineering and leadership to identify issues early, provide clear feedback, and support ongoing quality and process improvements.
    • Bring a positive attitude, strong attention to detail, and a team-first mindset.
    • Be willing to learn new tools and methods, take on tasks beyond your initial job description, and support the broader team wherever quality and problem-solving are needed.
    Daily and Monthly Responsibilities:
    • Perform first-article, in-process, and final inspections using precision measurement tools to verify conformance to requirements.
    • Conduct and document FAIs and review manufacturing documentation for accuracy and compliance.
    • Use CMM equipment to support dimensional inspections (programming experience not required) and assist with validating inspection results.
    • Help interpret inspection data, and over time, contribute to improved methods for complex, tight-tolerance features and inspection efficiency
    • Complete inspection reports, quality records, and traceability documentation, and assist with calibration control of equipment.
    • Help identify and track nonconforming material, support root cause and corrective actions, and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.
    • Support the team by performing in-process inspections, communicating trends and issues, and collaborating with engineering to resolve quality concerns.
    • Assist with audits, safety practices, and cross-functional teamwork to ensure quality and customer requirements are met.
    • Take instruction and direction to follow tasks safely and accurately from senior staff.
    Requirements:
    • Requires a high school diploma or equivalent.
    • Relevant technical training and substantial on-the-job experience in quality inspection.
    • 2-10 years: Quality inspection experience in a manufacturing environment, preferably with precision machined components.
    • Ability to read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, specifications, and GD&T.
    • Experience operating CMMs for inspection is strongly preferred; interest in learning CMM programming over time is a plus.
    • Experience creating fixtures to stabilize parts for accurate measurement.
    • Experience working in a job shop or high-mix, low-volume custom manufacturing environment is a plus.
    • A valid/clear driver's license is required.

    Benefits

    Paid Sick Days, Parking, Professional Development, Employee Referral Program, Flexible Spending Accounts, Employee Events, Retirement / Pension Plans, Tuition Reimbursement, Health Care on Site, Merchandise Discounts, Military Leave, On Site Cafeteria

    About Company

    We are R&D problem solvers providing independent, premier services to government and industry clients. Our multidisciplinary nature allows us to rapidly assemble diverse teams to tackle problems from multiple directions. We push the boundaries of science and technology to develop innovative solutions that advance the state of the art and improve human health and safety. Operating as a nonprofit since our 1947 inception, we work in the public’s best interest and toward the betterment of mankind.  At SwRI, we tirelessly pursue innovation and excellence in science and technology for the betterment of humankind. We support work on nearly 4,000 client projects at any given time through a wide range of technical competencies with 2,574 staff members in nine technical divisions. Client services include, but are not limited to, Automotive and Transportation, Biomedical & Health, Chemistry & Materials, Computers and Electronics, Defense & Security, Earth & Space, Energy & Environment, and Manufacturing & Construction. 

    TECHNICAL DIVISIONS

    • Applied Physics-Developing advanced electronic and microelectronic devices, power supplies, voice and data communication systems, robot test services, and payloads
    • Applied Power-Using physical science research and applied engineering to produce sensors, instruments, and hardware used worldwide.
    • Center for Nuclear Waste Regulatory Analyses-Resolving technical and regulatory issues related to a potential geologic repository for spent nuclear fule and high-level radioactive waste.
    • Chemistry and Chemical Engineering-Performing research and technical services using chemistry and chemical engineering technology.
    • Defense and & Intelligence Solutions-Providing advanced direction finding and tracking systems through geolocation system development.
    • Fuels and Lubricants Research-Performing fuels and lubricants research activities to meet regulatory and competitive goals.
    • Intelligent Systems-Providing engineering services in resaerch and development of complex systems and equipment.
    • Mechanical Engineering-Improving safety, reliability, efficiency and life of new or existing mechanical components or systems.
    • Powertrain Engineering-Designing and developing vehicle and engine components to achieve performance and emissions goals.
    • Space Science & Engineering-Developing and managing advanced scientific payloads aboard satellites and sounding rockets.

    PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE

    Innovation in science and technology has been a hallmark of Southwest Research Institute since its earliest days. It's no exaggeration to say we are committed to advancing science and applying technology to benefit government, industry, and all humankind. That is our mission. Our multidisciplinary, collaborative approach allows us to successfully solve clients' most challenging problems. Today, we are a leader among independent, nonprofit research and development organizations. Our staff of 2,574 scientists, engineers, analysts, and support staff members continues to accomplish outstanding fundamental and applied engineering and research for clients from diverse segments of government and industry. Adam L. Hamilton, P.E, President and CEO

    IN THE COMMUNITY
    Our staff is expert at developing solutions that help build a better tomorrow today; and that practical, innovative spirit carries through to our community interactions. Staff members generously donate time and outher resources to support food drives, blood drives, and other
    outreach programs. 
    HONORS AND AWARDS
    Southwest Research Institute has earned 43 R&D 100 awards since 1971. Each year R&D Magazine recognizes developments regarded as among the 100 most significant technical accomplishments. The Chicago Tribune dubbed the program "the Oscars of Invention". 

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