Lead Quality Inspector

Lead Quality Inspector Spacecraft represent the most pressing unmet need across the entire aerospace industry. As more launch vehicles come online and the cost to orbit decreases, more companies launching payloads to space continue to emerge. For the first time in history, this influx of payload companies combined with reduced launch costs has resulted in a massive increase in need for commercial spacecraft platforms, known as satellite buses. These buses hold the payloads of our customers and are flown on launch vehicles. Apex manufactures these satellite buses at scale using a combination of software, vertical integration, and hardware that is designed for manufacturing. Our spacecraft enable the future of society: ranging from earth observation to communications and more. We’d love for you to join us on our mission of providing humankind access to the galaxy beyond our planet. ABOUT THE ROLE Apex Space is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Lead Spacecraft Quality Inspector to join our team! The ideal candidate will have a strong background in quality inspection processes, methods and documentation in an AS9100 QMS environment and have a demonstrated history of leading colleagues in day-to-day operations. This role requires strong leadership and organizational skills, as well as a commitment to fostering a collaborative and high-performing work environment. Responsibilities: • Mentor, train, and provide technical guidance to inspectors, fostering skill growth and cross-training. • Coordinate task assignments, track progress, and communicate status updates to quality manager. • Conduct inspections and tests on in-process products and finished goods using appropriate tools and equipment in an ESD environment. • Read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and specifications to verify product compliance. • Document and report quality issues, non-conformances, and inspection results accurately. • Assist in root cause analyses and collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement corrective and preventive actions. • Maintain quality inspection tools and equipment. • Ensure proper risk management and compliance with industry standards such as AS9100, ISO 9001, and other applicable space industry certifications. • Assist with internal and external audits to ensure compliance with regulatory and company requirements. Requirements: • High school diploma or GED required; associate’s degree or technical certification preferred. • 6+ years of experience in quality control/inspection in the aerospace industry. • Mastery in using measurement tools (e.g., calipers, micrometers, gauges, multimeters) and testing equipment. • Strong attention to detail and excellent problem-solving skills. • Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and technical documents. • Strong communication skills and ability to work collaboratively in a team environment. • Demonstrated knowledge of quality management systems and standards (e.g., ISO 9001, AS9100). • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and quality management software. • Demonstrated ability to lead inspection teams in a highly paced manufacturing environment. • ASQ CQI certification is preferred. WHY JOIN APEX? Apex believes in creating a work environment that you look forward to embracing every day. Our employees love working at Apex, and we want you to love it too. We're a fast-growing startup backed by $200M in Series D funding, and we invest heavily in our people from day one. WHAT WE OFFER FOR FULL-TIME EMPLOYEES: - Shared upside: Receive equity in Apex, letting you benefit from the work you create - Best-in-class healthcare: 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision for you and your dependents, plus $100k life insurance at no cost - Comprehensive PTO package to reset and recharge - starting at 15 days vacation, growing to 20+ days annually, plus 10 paid holidays - Competitive 401(k) plan with generous matching - 100% match on first 3% ... (truncated, view full listing at source)