Senior Quality Inspector in San Diego, California at Firestorm

Firestorm Labs is seeking a meticulous and dependable Senior Quality Inspector to join our growing quality team in San Diego. At Firestorm Labs, we are building the future of distributed, mission-adaptive airpower for the modern warfighter. You will be responsible for independently verifying that incoming material, in-process builds, and finished aircraft conform to drawings, specifications, and workmanship standards. You will be integrated within one of our Integrated Product Teams (IPTs) supporting the Tempest, Squall, and Hurricane FPV aircraft lines. You will perform receiving, in-process, and final inspections, ensure only conforming product moves forward to Flight Test and our customers, and keep every inspection documented and traceable. You will be reporting to the Senior Manager of Production Operations. What You'll Do

• Perform receiving inspection of purchased parts and assemblies against purchase orders, drawings, and certificates of conformance.
• Perform in-process and Final QC inspection of sub-assemblies and aircraft at defined router checkpoints before release to Flight Test.
• Verify dimensions, workmanship, wiring, solder joints, connectors, fasteners, torque, and markings using calibrated measuring equipment.
• Accept handoffs from Manufacturing and Test using the standard handoff log, confirming part number, quantity, MOT, and open items.
• Complete inspection records and router stamps accurately, maintaining full serial and lot traceability.
• Identify, tag, and segregate nonconforming material, and initiate NCMRs in Jira with clear defect descriptions and photos.
• Support MRB activities and verify rework and repair per approved dispositions.
• Support First Article Inspection (AS9102) and supplier quality activities as directed by Quality Engineering.
• Ensure inspection tools and gauges are calibrated and used correctly.
• Share defect trends with the IPT and support root cause and corrective action efforts.
• Performed other duties as directed

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma, GED or equivalent education
• 'U.S. Person' as defined by 22 CFR § 120.62 required due to ITAR regulations, which includes U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders), or protected individuals under asylee or refugee status
• 5+ years of quality inspection experience in aerospace, defense, UAS, electronics, or precision manufacturing.
• Experience with calipers, micrometers, height gauges, torque tools, and other standard inspection equipment.
• Experience reading and interpreting engineering drawings, including basic GD&T, and inspection criteria.
• Strong attention to detail, objectivity, and disciplined documentation habits.
• Experience communicating findings clearly and constructively with build and test teams.

Preferred Qualifications

• IPC-A-610 and/or IPC/WHMA-A-620 certification.
• Experience working within an AS9100-compliant quality management system.
• Experience with receiving inspection, First Article Inspection (AS9102), and NCMR/MRB processes.
• ASQ Certified Quality Inspector (CQI) or Certified Quality Technician (CQT).
• Experience inspecting composite structures, cable harnesses, or electromechanical assemblies.
• Familiarity with Jira or an ERP/MES system.

Work Environment

• The position is working onsite at Headquarters in San Diego, CA.
• Will be working on the production floor and in the receiving area.
• Standing, bending, and close visual work, including under magnification, for extended periods; ability to lift up to 30 lbs.
• Use of required PPE, including safety glasses and ESD protection.
• Occasional overtime to support customer commitments.

Compensation

• Hourly Base: $32.00 -$42.00 an hour base, commensurate with experience
• Equity: Meaningful equity grant in a growth-stage defense technology company

The posted salary range reflects an estimate based on a variety of compensation factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, education, certifications, specialized skills, geographic location, and business needs. Actual compensation may vary, and this range is subject to change as our compensation structure or market conditions evolve. Who We Are At Firestorm, we’re on a mission to revolutionize how defense solutions are designed and delivered. Our goal is to empower U.S. ally nations to effectively deter aggressors—regardless of their defense budget—through innovative, cost-efficient technologies. We call this vision “democratized deterrence.” As a VC-backed company at the intersection of defense and Silicon Valley, we’re pioneering the development of mission-adaptable aerial vehicles that put power back into the hands of operators. By prioritizing operator effectiveness, we’re pioneering a new era of aerial vehicle design. We aim to upend the traditional defense procurement model by delivering world-class capabilities at a fraction of the usual cost. Join us at Firestorm as we redefine defense procurement, making cutting-edge technology accessible to all at a fraction of the cost. Benefits & Perks Our culture fosters collaboration, respect, and trust, empowering passionate people to do their best work. We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career growth. In addition to an opportunity to take part in an innovative, collaborative and fast-growing business with a highly motivated and skilled team, we also take pride in taking care of our employees. Here are just a few ways that we show our appreciation:

• We offer comprehensive medical, dental, and visions plans
• 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan to invest in your long-term retirement goals
• Equity grants for new hires
• Unlimited PTO
• Extremely generous company holiday calendar, including a holiday hiatus in July, & December.
• Generous Parental Leave
• Lifestyle Spending Account
• FSA
• DCFSA
• HSA
• Hospital Indemnity insurance
• Critical Illness insurance
• Accident insurance
• Basic Life/AD&D, short-term and long-term disability insurance, 100% covered by Firestorm. Plus, the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your family.
• Mental Health Resources: We provide free mental health resources 24/7 including therapy and more. Additional work-life services, such as free legal and financial support, are available to you as well.

Export Control Compliance To conform to U.S. government export control regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and Export Administration Regulations (EAR), 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 otherwise eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State or U.S. Department of Commerce. Equal Opportunity Statement Firestorm is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, and upholding equitable hiring practices. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic under federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, Veterans, and those with disabilities to apply, and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process. Firestorm is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible work environment. If you require accommodations or assistance during the application process, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at careers@launchfirestorm.com so we can provide the support you need.