The Blade Shop In-Process Quality Engineer is responsible for ensuring dimensional accuracy, surface quality, and process conformance of turbine blades during various machining stages. The role involves inspection planning, CMM programming, report interpretation, and close coordination with production and engineering teams to ensure adherence to design and quality requirements. The position demands sound metrology knowledge, strong analytical skills, and a hands-on approach to problem-solving in a precision manufacturing environment.
Key Responsibilities
In-Process Quality Control:
- Conduct in-process inspection of turbine blades at roughing, semi-finishing, and finishing stages.
 - Verify dimensional accuracy, profile conformity, and surface finish as per drawing and process specifications.
 - Identify non-conformities and ensure timely corrective and preventive actions.
 - Support line inspection and approval activities to avoid downstream rework or rejections.
 
CMM Programming & Measurement
- Develop, validate, and optimize CMM programs (MITUTOYO) based on CAD models and inspection drawings.
 - Perform part setup, probing, and measurement routines for both airfoil and root form profiles.
 - Analyze CMM reports and interpret deviations, trends, and tolerance stack-ups.
 - Interface with design and manufacturing engineering to resolve dimensional discrepancies.
 
Data Analysis & Reporting
- Review and interpret inspection reports, SPC charts, and process capability data (Cp, Cpk).
 - Prepare in-process quality dashboards and daily quality summaries for management review.
 - Recommend process improvements based on recurring deviations or measurement trends.
 
Documentation & Standards
- Maintain calibration records of gauges, fixtures, and measurement instruments.
 - Ensure inspection checklists, control plans, and standard work instructions are up-to-date.
 - Adhere to ISO 9001 quality system documentation and internal audit requirements.
 
Cross-Functional Coordination
- Work closely with CNC programmers, operators, and manufacturing engineers to establish robust process control.
 - Participate in root cause analysis (RCA) problem-solving for quality issues.
 - Support FAI (First Article Inspection), and customer inspection activities.
 
Continuous Improvement
- Contribute to quality improvement initiatives, reduction of rejections, and yield enhancement.
 - Support automation and digital inspection initiatives, including offline CMM programming and 3D scanning.
 - Promote a culture of first-time-right manufacturing and continuous learning within the team.
 
Qualifications & Requirements
- Diploma / B.E. in Mechanical or Production Engineering.
 - Minimum 36 years of experience in precision machining quality (preferably turbine blades, aerospace, or power components).
 - Hands-on experience in CMM programming and GD&T interpretation.
 - Strong knowledge of metrology, inspection techniques, and surface measurement tools (profilometers, micrometers, height gauges).
 - Working knowledge of MS-Office, SAP QM, and SPC tools.
 - Good communication skills in English, Hindi, and Gujarati.