Inspector

Title

 Inspector 

Department

 Quality

Reports to

 Director, Continuous Improvement

SEE YOUR CAREER THROUGH A NEW LENS WITH RPO!

RPO is a global leader in precision optics, optical components, and optical assemblies. We specialize in a full spectrum of products & services including – Design and Engineering, Systems Integration, Lens Assembly, Visible and Infrared Components, Glass and Plastic Molded Aspheres, and Thin Film Coating. As one of the fastest growing companies in Rochester, RPO offers exciting career paths and work on market-leading programs. See below one of many career opportunities to join the RPO team!

Position Overview:

The Quality Inspector is responsible for performing in-process and final inspections of precision optical components, assemblies, and related manufacturing processes to ensure compliance with customer requirements, engineering specifications, and internal quality standards. Working within a cleanroom manufacturing environment, this role plays a critical part in identifying defects, maintaining product quality, and supporting on-time delivery of high-performance optical products. This position regularly collaborates with Manufacturing, Engineering, Quality, and Shipping teams to verify product conformity, document inspection results, and escalate quality concerns when necessary. Success in this role requires strong attention to detail, excellent visual acuity, sound judgment, and the ability to consistently follow established inspection procedures.

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform in-process and final inspections of precision optical components, assemblies, and manufacturing processes to verify compliance with customer, engineering, and quality requirements.
• Conduct visual inspections using established procedures, inspection criteria, and applicable measurement equipment.
• Review engineering drawings, work instructions, specifications, material certifications, and test documentation to verify product conformity.
• Accurately document inspection results, nonconformances, and quality data in accordance with internal procedures and quality system requirements.
• Identify and communicate nonconforming or questionable conditions to Quality, Manufacturing, and Engineering personnel for evaluation and disposition.
• Utilize microscopes, comparators, and other inspection equipment as required to evaluate product quality standards.
• Maintain compliance with cleanroom protocols, contamination control practices, and proper handling procedures for sensitive optical components.
• Collaborate with Manufacturing, Engineering, Quality, and Shipping teams to support on-time delivery of conforming product and continuous improvement efforts
• Maintain accurate quality records and support audits, investigations, corrective actions, and quality system activities as required.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or GED required; Associate degree or technical coursework in Quality, Manufacturing, Engineering Technology, Optics, or a related field is beneficial but not required.
• Minimum 2 years of experience in a manufacturing quality, inspection, testing, or other detail-oriented technical environment.
• Experience working with precision products, assemblies, components, or documentation where accuracy and attention to detail are critical.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, work instructions, and inspection criteria.
• Strong visual inspection skills with the ability to identify defects, discrepancies, and nonconforming conditions.
• Proficiency with computers and standard software, including Microsoft Office applications.
• Strong organizational, documentation, and time management skills.
• Ability to work independently while maintaining a high level of accuracy and consistency.

Core Competencies:

Additional Requirements:

Pursuant to ITAR, EAR, and other export compliance laws and regulations, applicants for this position must be U.S. Persons as defined by U.S. law, i.e., U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents ("Green Card" holders), persons granted refugee status or asylum status in the United States, or temporary residents granted amnesty.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Competitive compensation package linked to your experience and performance.
• 401(k) with company match and Tuition Reimbursement opportunities.
• Health, dental, vision, HSA, & life insurance.
• Paid time off including vacation, sick time, and 11 paid company holidays

Environment & Physical Demands:

• Works primarily within a cleanroom and controlled manufacturing environment supporting the inspection of precision optical components and assemblies.
• Requires prolonged periods of sitting and standing while performing inspections, reviewing documentation, and supporting manufacturing activities.
• Frequent use of hands and fingers to handle delicate components, operate inspection equipment, and perform detailed visual inspections.
• Requires excellent visual acuity, color recognition, depth perception, and attention to fine detail. Extended periods of microscope work, magnified inspection, or close visual evaluation may be required.
• Frequent computer use is required for inspection reporting, data entry, documentation review, and quality record maintenance.
• Requires adherence to cleanroom and contamination control protocols, including the use of frocks, gloves, hair coverings, safety glasses, and other required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• May involve exposure to cleaning agents, solvents, adhesives, and manufacturing materials commonly used in optical assembly and inspection environments.
• Occasional lifting, carrying, or movement of materials, fixtures, and inspection equipment, typically up to 25 pounds.
• May require movement between inspection areas, assembly departments, manufacturing work centers, and shipping operations to support production and customer delivery requirements.
• Occasional overtime or schedule flexibility may be required to support production schedules, customer commitments, and business needs.

Disclaimer:

This job description reflects management’s assignment of essential functions; it does not prescribe or restrict the tasks that may be assigned. The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed.

Rochester Precision Optics is committed to leveraging the talent of a diverse workforce to create great opportunities for our business and our people. 

EOE/AA/Race/Gender/Disability/Veteran

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States, and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.

ty and eligibility to work in the United States, and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.