Quality Technician

Quality Technician Shafer, MN 55074 From $35 an hour - Full-time From $35 an hour - Full-time Lakes Area Manufacturing is seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented Quality Technician to serve as the technical authority for Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) programming, inspection methodology, and data analysis in support of DoD projects. This role is responsible for executing precision inspections of complex components using both CMM and conventional quality instruments, applying Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T), and ensuring compliance with rigorous customer and industry standards. The position will also provide leadership in developing robust inspection strategies and driving continuous improvement of inspection processes across the organization.

Shift:

Monday -

Thursday:

6:00am - 4:00pm (4 x 10-hour shifts) Occasional overtime on

Fridays Key Responsibilities:

Develop, validate, and optimize CMM inspection programs to support DoD parts in compliance with customer drawings, GD&T, and process of record requirements. Proof, update, and run existing CMM programs while troubleshooting and resolving dimensional inspection challenges. Standardize CMM programming methods, workflows, and reporting formats. Conduct first article, in-process, and final inspections; generate AS9102-compliant reports and maintain accurate inspection records. Interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and technical specifications to define inspection requirements. Apply GD&T principles to verify conformance and identify/document nonconformances, defects, or variances. Ensure compliance with

AS9100, ISO

9001, and other applicable quality management systems. Maintain and enforce calibration schedules, probe qualification, and equipment maintenance Implement and track inspection KPIs (e.g., first-pass yield, programming cycle time, backlog, repeatability/reproducibility metrics) and drive corrective actions where needed. Evaluate and recommend new inspection technologies, automation tools, and software enhancements. Benchmark company inspection capabilities against industry standards and develop plans to close gaps. Participate in continuous improvement initiatives to enhance inspection processes, efficiency, and throughput. Perform other duties as assigned. Run production lot inspections as needed.

Qualifications:

Associate or bachelor's degree in manufacturing, Mechanical Engineering, Quality Management, or a related technical field (or equivalent experience). 5+ years of progressive experience in quality inspection or precision manufacturing Demonstrated experience in CMM programming (Zeiss Calypso) and dimensional inspection in aerospace, defense, or high-precision metal fabrication. Proficiency in interpreting engineering drawings, technical specifications, and applying Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T). Hands-on experience with advanced metrology tools (micrometers, calipers, gauges, dial indicators, etc.). In-depth knowledge of

AS9100, ISO

9001, and related quality management systems. Strong understanding of first article inspection (FAI), including AS9102 documentation requirements. Familiarity with inspection KPIs, data analysis, and continuous improvement methodologies (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma). Effective written and verbal communication skills, including technical report writing. Certification(s) such as ASQ Certified Quality Inspector (CQI), Certified Quality Engineer (CQE), or GD&T Professional preferred.

What We Offer:

Competitive hourly wage based on experience Paid Time Off (PTO) Paid Holidays Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance 401(k) with Company Match Applicants must be able to pass a criminal background check prior to employment. This position is on-site (not remote/not hybrid) and is not eligible for Visa sponsorship or transfer of Visa sponsorship. Location is in Shafer, MN.

ITAR REQUIREMENTS

To conform to U.S. Government DoD technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Lakes Area Manufacturing is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Lakes Area Manufacturing is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status. This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) incumbent in this position. Employee(s) will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments.

Pay:

From $35.00 per hour

Benefits:

401(k) matching Dental insurance Health insurance Paid time off Vision insurance Application Question(s): What are your compensation expectations? Ability to

Commute:

Shafer, MN 55074 (Required)

Work Location:

In person