CMM Programmer/Dimensional Inspector (QA/QC Inspector 3/4)

This position is open for external candidates only and will be filled at either the QA/QC Inspector 3 or 4 level, depending on the skills of the selected candidate. Additional responsibilities will be assigned if hired at the higher level.

About the Role

The Prototype Fabrication Division at Los Alamos National Laboratory provides technical experience and proficiency in machining, fabrication, and precision dimensional inspection of critical hardware needed to support the nation's nuclear stockpile modernization efforts. The selected candidate will join a dedicated team of engineers, machinists, and quality control professionals to ensure manufactured components meet drawing standards and requirements.

The successful applicant will be part of the Prototype Fabrication Applied Metrology Group's Dimensional Inspection Team, which operates across three environmentally controlled laboratories supporting dimensional inspections of conventional materials, depleted uranium, and beryllium components.

Responsibilities

QA/QC Inspector 3 ($66,100 - $103,600)

• Develop and execute CMM programs on parts of varying complexity, ensuring proper techniques are used to collect accurate part data.
• Utilize manual inspection equipment to validate part features are within specification.
• Work within a team environment with strong written and verbal communication skills.

QA/QC Inspector 4 ($80,400 - $127,900)

• In addition to the responsibilities of QA/QC Inspector 3, develop complex CMM programs with enough detail and direction for use by others.
• Frequently communicate technical information to machinists and customers, providing consultation to support final product acceptance.

Key technical areas: tolerance, point cloud, repeatability, reproducibility, gauge blocks, GR&R, gage R&R, accuracy, Faro arm, Calypso, Zeiss, surface profilometer, form tester, ASME Y14.5, NIST, probing strategy.

Requirements

Minimum Job Requirements:

• Technical Expertise:
  • Demonstrated experience programming and operating CMMs.
  • Demonstrated experience utilizing height gages, surface plates, surface analyzers, optical comparators, thread gages, and indicators.
  • Demonstrated experience with blueprint reading, including ASME Y14.5 Dimensioning and Tolerancing.
  • Demonstrated experience with applied shop mathematics, unit conversions, and trigonometry.
• Communication and Teamwork:
  • Strong writing ability and verbal communication skills to independently prepare and present data and reports.
  • Demonstrated record of dependability, reliability, and commitment to long-term job duties and programmatic goals.

Additional Requirements for QA/QC Inspector 4:

• Demonstrated experience as a subject matter expert on inspection methods and techniques supporting machining operations.
• Advanced knowledge of programming CMMs for complex geometries with enough detail for use by others.
• Advanced knowledge of blueprint reading and ASME Y14.5, including training and mentoring others.
• Experience mentoring and training junior staff.
• Demonstrated experience in researching, specifying, and selecting measurement and test equipment.

Qualifications

QA/QC Inspector 3: Associate's Degree or formal Machinist Apprenticeship Program and 2 years of experience in equivalent machining, inspection, examination, or test activities; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

QA/QC Inspector 4: Associate's Degree or formal Machinist Apprenticeship Program and 4 years of experience in equivalent machining, inspection, examination, or test activities; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Skills

• Experience with QUINDOS, PC-DMIS, PolyWorks, or Calypso CMM Metrology Software.
• Experience with CMM Corrections and Calibration processes.

Essential Job Functions

• Reading vision, ability to hear in a normal range (500 to 3000 htz).
• Sitting, standing, bending, twisting the trunk or back, reaching horizontally or down.
• Gripping, applying torque, pressing, pushing, or pulling with hands or arms.
• Typing or keyboarding, fine motor control, use of both hands and arms.
• Lifting 30+ pounds.

Work Environment

• Working overtime or irregular schedule.
• Operation of specialized equipment and motor vehicles.
• Work near electrical power supplies, non-ionizing radiation, weapons or weapons components, or machinery with moving parts.
• Required use of safety glasses, eye protection, and safety shoes or protective footgear.

Location

The work location for this position is onsite in Los Alamos, NM. All work locations are at the discretion of management.

Pay

• QA/QC Inspector 3: $66,100 - $103,600
• QA/QC Inspector 4: $80,400 - $127,900

Benefits

• PPO or High Deductible medical insurance with a large nationwide network.
• Dental and vision insurance.
• Free basic life and disability insurance.
• Paid childbirth and parental leave.
• Award-winning 401(k) (6% matching plus 3.5% annually).
• Learning opportunities and tuition assistance.
• Flexible schedules and time off (PTO and holidays).
• Onsite gyms and wellness programs.
• Extensive relocation packages (outside a 50-mile radius).

Security Clearance

This position requires a Q clearance. Selected applicants will be subject to a background investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified matter. U.S. citizenship is required except in extremely rare circumstances. Dependent upon the position, additional authorization to access classified information may be required.

Note: Citizens of the People's Republic of China (including Hong Kong and Macau), the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea), and the Russian Federation who are not Lawful Permanent Residents are prohibited from accessing facilities supporting national security laboratories and nuclear weapons production facilities.