L·Garde is a full-service design, development, and manufacturing supplier of spacecraft hardware to Tier 1 primes and government agencies. We provide systems engineering and skilled technicians to make Skunk Works-type projects a reality. With over 50 years of aerospace expertise, our deployable systems test the limits of what's possible in the harshest of environments - in orbit, on the moon, and even on other planets.
If you’re an individual with a sharp eye for detail, thrive in precision manufacturing, and want to contribute to the reliability of next-generation spacecraft, we invite you to join us as a Quality Assurance Inspector II.
A Day in the Life:
We’re looking for a Quality Assurance Inspector II who is a detail-oriented professional with a strong commitment to ensuring products and services meet rigorous standards. Skilled in three core areas, our QA Inspector is a key member of the Integrated Product Team (IPT):
a) Inspecting incoming machined aluminum components using advanced GD&T knowledge
b) Performing Work In Process (WIP) inspections for spacecraft payload assemblies
c) Supporting our suppliers with Source Inspection (primarily in Orange County, with up to 5% domestic travel)
This role will require the inspector to be adept at analyzing supplier inspection data, material traceability and test documentation to verify compliance with aerospace standards. The successful candidate will be a proactive problem-solver involved early in the product design and development phase to ensure our spacecraft and payload systems meet the highest standards of innovation and reliability.
Key Responsibilities:
- Perform incoming QA of machined parts to meet GD&T requirements of engineering drawings using calibrated metrology tools and a state-of-the-art Keyence Optical Profilometer.
- Review and verify supplier data packs (Certificates of Conformance, Material Traceability, Inspection Records) for completeness and compliance.
- Inspect custom and commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) parts to ensure compliance to engineering requirements, expiration dates, and country of origin.
- Perform inspections of Work-in-Process (WIP) in our High Bay and laboratories during Development, Acceptance, and Qualification Testing phases.
- Maintain compliance records or calibrated equipment and work with Design. Manufacturing Test Engineering to plan instrument needs for future projects.
- Document and manage Non-Conformance Reports (NCRs) and support the Material Review Board (MRB) Process.
- Conduct inspections of CNC-machined parts, tooling, and custom assemblies at vendor facilities, and coordinate customer source inspection and test witness at L.Garde.
Who You Are:
- Proficient with GD&T interpretation and precision metrology equipment for dimensional inspection of aerospace hardware.
- Minimum 5+ years of quality assurance experience in aerospace or equivalent precision manufacturing industries.
- Experienced with AS9100, ISO 9001, or NASA/JPL quality standards and documentation practices.
- Comfortable working in cleanroom or flight hardware environments supporting spacecraft or payload assemblies.
- Exposure to Keyence Optical Profilometer (CR-6100) and 3-D scanning systems preferred.
- Strong knowledge of the aerospace industry and experience collaborating closely with engineers, technicians, and suppliers.
- Proactive in identifying process improvements and contributing to continuous quality initiatives.
- Able to obtain a U.S. Security Clearance (U.S. Citizenship require); Top Secret Clearance a plus.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills with strong attention to detail and document accuracy.
- Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate effectively across all levels of the organization.
- Detail-oriented, organized, and adaptable in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
- Strong problem-solving mindset and a passion for working in a team-driven culture.
- High school diploma or equivalent required; additional technical training or certifications in quality or metrology are a plus.
What We Offer:
- Be at the forefront of aerospace innovation by working on cutting-edge aerospace technologies.
- Opportunity to wear multiple hats and grow your skill set.
- Collaborative and inclusive work culture where your contributions are highly valued.
- Competitive salary
- Top-Tiered Benefits, 100% of both employee and dependents are covered by the company =Medical, Dental, Vision
- Flexible Spending Account
- Retirement and Company Match
- Company-Sponsored Life and LTD Insurance
- Generous Paid Time Off Policy with up to 4 weeks in the first year.
- Robust Paid Holiday Schedule
Compensation Range: $30.00 - $40.00 / hour. This is a non-exempt position.
Your actual base salary will be determined individually and may vary based on factors such as job-related knowledge, skills, education, and experience. Base salary is just one part of your total compensation package, which also includes discretionary bonuses, a 401(k) match, annual profit sharing, 100% employer-paid benefit premiums, and more.
Join our team as an Aerospace Quality Assurance Inspector II, where you’ll play a key role in planning and coordinating inspection activities that ensure the highest standards of aerospace innovation—while gaining hands-on experience and opportunities for growth.
L·Garde is an equal opportunity employer, including individuals with disabilities and veterans, and participates in the E-Verify Program.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $30.00 - $40.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
- Referral program
- Retirement plan
- Tuition reimbursement
- Vision insurance
Application Question(s):
- Do you have the ability to obtain a U.S. Security Clearance for which the U.S. Government requires U.S. Citizenship?
- What types of aerospace or prevision hardware environments have you inspected in? (e.g., spacecraft, aircraft, defense, medical, etc.)
- If you are not local, are you willing to relocate to within a reasonable commuting distance of Tustin, CA?
Experience:
- Keyence Optical Profilometer: 2 years (Preferred)
- 3-D Scanning: 2 years (Preferred)
- aerospace or related: 5 years (Required)
- QA metrology equipment: 3 years (Required)
- Quality Assurance Inspector: 5 years (Required)
Location:
- Tustin, CA 92780 (Preferred)
Security clearance:
Ability to Commute:
- Tustin, CA 92780 (Required)
Work Location: In person
