Job ID: TM13868946
Location: Waterbury, CT
Category: Engineering
Employment Type: Permanent
Date Added: 04/06/2026
Quality Engineer | $85,000–$105,000 | Direct Hire | Waterbury, CT
What Matters Most:
- Hands-on Quality Engineer role with immediate impact on shop floor performance
- Opportunity to elevate inspection standards and strengthen team capability
- High-visibility position supporting production, engineering, and quality systems
- Environment focused on precision manufacturing, continuous improvement, and accountability
- Role requires strong technical depth in GD&T and manual inspection
Job Description:
This organization is seeking a highly hands-on Quality Engineer to support daily inspection activities, drive product quality, and strengthen overall quality systems. This role is embedded within operations and requires a strong technical contributor who can step in immediately, support first article inspections, and ensure dimensional accuracy across complex components. The position plays a critical role in maintaining product integrity while also contributing to long-term process and system improvements.
Responsibilities:
- Perform and support detailed first article inspections (FAIR/FAI) to validate dimensional accuracy of manufactured components
- Interpret engineering drawings and GD&T requirements to ensure compliance with specifications
- Lead and support root cause investigations related to customer complaints, internal defects, and supplier quality issues
- Collaborate with production and engineering teams to address non-conforming material and implement corrective actions
- Develop and refine inspection methods, work instructions, and quality processes to improve consistency and performance
- Provide technical guidance and informal training to inspectors to improve measurement capability and understanding
- Support and enhance Quality Management System (QMS) processes including audits, CAPAs, and continuous improvement initiatives
- Assist in CMM programming and inspection tooling development as needed
- Drive improvements in inspection practices, data collection, and process control when production schedules allow
Qualifications and Requirements:
- Strong experience in metal manufacturing / machining environments
- Advanced knowledge of GD&T and blueprint interpretation (non-negotiable)
- Proven ability to perform hands-on dimensional inspection and layout work
- Experience supporting or performing first article inspections (FAI/FAIR)
- Familiarity with CMM operation/programming (PC-DMIS or similar preferred)
- Working knowledge of root cause analysis, CAPA, and quality systems
- Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
- Strong communication skills and ability to collaborate across production, engineering, and quality teams
Preferred / Nice to Have:
- Experience with SPC, PFMEA, or Six Sigma methodologies
- Background in aerospace, medical device, or other precision manufacturing environments
- Experience developing inspection tools, fixtures, or gauging methods
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related field
Benefits and Perks:
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) with company match
- Life and disability insurance
- Paid time off and company-supported benefits programs
Your New Organization:
This company operates within a precision manufacturing environment supporting highly regulated and quality-driven industries. With a strong focus on accuracy, reliability, and continuous improvement, the organization is committed to strengthening its quality function and investing in talent that can elevate standards across operations.
Your Career Partner:
The Reserves Network connects skilled professionals with organizations where they can make a meaningful impact. We partner closely with both clients and candidates to ensure alignment, long-term success, and career growth.
