Lead Inspection Engineer - Metrology & NDE Level 3

Job Description Summary

The Lead Inspection Engineer - Metrology & NDE Level 3 is responsible for leading inspection strategy, execution, and continuous improvement for critical aerospace components and systems. This role combines deep metrology expertise with NDE Level 3 certifications to develop, qualify, and oversee inspection methods that ensure product safety, quality, and regulatory compliance. The engineer serves as the technical authority for NDE and dimensional inspection, mentors Level 1/2 inspectors and engineers, and partners closely with design, manufacturing, and quality teams to drive robust inspection processes across the value stream, including active participation in NPI producibility reviews and design-for-inspectability.

Job Description

Roles and Responsibilities

Technical Leadership - Metrology & NDE

• Serve as the technical authority for metrology and all assigned NDE methods (e.g., UT, RT, PT, MT, ET, CT) at the site or business unit.
• Participate as a reviewer and provide direction on inspection strategies during producibility reviews for NPI programs , ensuring inspectability, process capability, and alignment with customer and regulatory requirements.
• Develop and approve inspection procedures , work instructions, and acceptance criteria in accordance with customer, regulatory, and industry standards (e.g., NAS, ASTM, ASME, EN).
• Design and validate inspection methods , including gaging concepts, fixturing, measurement strategies, and NDE techniques for complex geometries and advanced materials.
• Lead method qualifications and capability studies (e.g., MSA, Gage R&R, POD studies, repeatability and reproducibility analysis).
• Interpret complex indications and measurement results , providing disposition guidance and escalation for non conformances.
• Own and maintain calibration and verification strategies for inspection equipment, ensuring traceability to national and international standards.

NDE Level 3 Responsibilities

• Act as NDE Level 3 in accordance with applicable standards (e.g., NAS 410, SNT-TC-1A, ISO 9712 or equivalent).
• Develop, qualify, and approve NDE techniques and written practices for all covered methods.
• Certify and recertify Level 1 and Level 2 personnel , including developing training content, administering examinations, and defining on-the-job training plans.
• Provide expert interpretation of NDE results , including complex defect characterization, false-call analysis, and root-cause support.
• Lead NDE audits and compliance activities , interfacing internal, customer, and regulatory auditors.
• Monitor and introduce new NDE technologies , tools, and digital solutions (e.g., advanced UT, phased array, CT, automated inspection).

Metrology & Measurement Systems

• Lead the dimensional inspection strategy , including CMM programming, laser scanning, optical measurement, and portable metrology systems.
• Optimize measurement programs and setups to reduce inspection cycle time while improving accuracy and robustness.
• Establish and maintain measurement system capability , including uncertainty budgets, calibration intervals, and environmental controls.
• Collaborate with design engineering on GD&T definition, datum schemes, and tolerancing to ensure inspectability and alignment with manufacturing capability.
• Implement digital inspection workflows , including model-based definition (MBD), digital twins, and data-driven inspection planning where applicable.

Quality, Compliance, and Continuous Improvement

• Own inspection process quality metrics , such as defect escape rates, inspection yield, re-inspection levels, and key rework drivers.
• Lead problem-solving and root-cause analysis (e.g., 5-Why, Fishbone, 8D) for inspection-related quality issues and escapes.
• Drive continuous improvement using Lean, Six Sigma, and mistake-proofing techniques within inspection and NDE processes.
• Ensure compliance with customer requirements, regulatory standards, and internal procedures for inspection and NDE.
• Support new product introduction (NPI) , process changes, and industrialization with robust inspection plans and risk assessments.

Leadership, Collaboration, and Training

• Provide day-to-day technical leadership to a team of inspectors, technicians, and inspection engineers.
• Coach and mentor Level 1/2 NDE personnel, metrology technicians, and early-career engineers.
• Champion a strong safety and quality culture , reinforcing adherence to PPE requirements, radiation safety (where applicable), and safe equipment operation.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Engineering, Manufacturing, Supplier Quality, and Program teams to align inspection strategies with business priorities.
• Represent inspection engineering in customer reviews, MRB boards, and cross-functional investigations.

#LI-AW2

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree accredited college or university in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related technical field; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. ( or High School Diploma /GED with a minimum of 4 years of experience in Aerospace, power, or similarly regulated, high-precision industries.) + Minimum of 3 years of Aerospace, power, or similarly regulated, high-precision industries experience.
• NDE Level 3 certification in at least one major method (e.g., UT, RT, PT, MT, ET) in accordance with NAS 410, SNT-TC-1A, ISO 9712, or equivalent.
• Demonstrated experience in metrology , including hands-on work with CMMs and other precision measurement systems in a production environment.
• Strong knowledge of GD&T (per ASME Y14.5 or equivalent) and its application to complex components.
• Proven experience developing inspection procedures , NDE techniques, and training/certification programs.
• Ability to Travel within US, 10-20%
• Strong analytical skills , including statistical analysis of measurement data and capability studies.
• Excellent communication skills , with the ability to clearly convey technical concepts to diverse audiences.
• Ability to work with and safeguard export-controlled and ITAR-regulated technical data , and to meet all applicable U.S. export control and ITAR requirements for this role.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DOD security clearance.

Desired Qualifications

• Multiple NDE Level 3 certifications (e.g., UT + PT + MT, etc.).
• Experience with CT scanning, phased array UT, or automated/robotic NDE systems.
• Experience with model-based definition (MBD) , CAD/CAM integration, and digital inspection planning tools.
• Familiarity with aviation regulatory and customer standards (e.g., FAA/EASA, OEM specifications).
• Lean/Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt, with demonstrated continuous improvement leadership.
• Experience in supplier development or supplier inspection oversight .
• Humble: respectful, receptive, agile, eager to learn
• Transparent: shares critical information, speaks with candor, contributes constructively
• Focused: quick learner, strategically prioritizes work, committed
• Leadership ability: strong communicator, decision-maker, collaborative
• Problem solver: analytical-minded, challenges existing processes, critical thinker

Key Competencies

Competency

Description

Technical Depth

Deep expertise in NDE and metrology with strong problem-solving skills

Quality & Compliance Focus

Drives high standards for safety, quality, and regulatory adherence

Leadership & Coaching

Develops people, builds capability, and leads by example

Cross-Functional Collaboration

Works effectively with engineering, manufacturing, and quality teams

Continuous Improvement

Identifies waste and variation; implements sustainable improvements

Communication & Influence

Communicates clearly, influences decisions, and manages stakeholders

Physical and Work Environment Requirements

• Ability to work in a shop/inspection environment , including around production equipment and NDE systems.
• Ability to lift and handle components and fixtures as needed for inspection setup (within safe limits).
• Willingness to work off-shifts or overtime occasionally to support production needs, audits, or urgent issues.

GE Aerospace offers comprehensive benefits and programs to support your health and, along with programs like HealthAhead, your physical, emotional, financial and social wellbeing. Healthcare benefits include medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage; access to a Health Coach from GE Aerospace; and the Employee Assistance Program, which provides 24/7 confidential assessment, counseling and referral services. Retirement benefits include the GE Aerospace Retirement Savings Plan, a 401(k) savings plan with company matching contributions and company retirement contributions, as well as access to Fidelity resources and planning consultants. Other benefits include tuition assistance, adoption assistance, paid parental leave, disability insurance, life insurance, and paid time-off for vacation or illness.

GE Aerospace (General Electric Company or the Company) and its affiliates each sponsor certain employee benefit plans or programs (i.e., is a "Sponsor"). Each Sponsor reserves the right to terminate, amend, suspend, replace or modify its benefit plans and programs at any time and for any reason, in its sole discretion. No individual has a vested right to any benefit under a Sponsor's welfare benefit plan or program. This document does not create a contract of employment with any individual.

This role requires access to U.S. export-controlled information. Therefore, employment will be contingent upon the ability to prove that you meet the status of a U.S. Person as one of the following: U.S. lawful permanent resident, U.S. Citizen, have been granted asylee or refugee status (i.e., a protected individual under the Immigration and Naturalization Act, 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3)).

Additional Information

GE Aerospace offers a great work environment, professional development, challenging careers, and competitive compensation. GE Aerospace is an Equal Opportunity Employer . Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.

GE Aerospace will only employ those who are legally authorized to work in the United States for this opening. Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen (as applicable).

Relocation Assistance Provided: Yes