PSM OU Fabrication Center - CMM Operator - Dimension Control Tech 3 or 4
About this role
Description
At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work — and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.Are you ready to put your experience to work at Northrop Grumman? If so, our Defense System Sector wants you to join our team as a Dimension Control Tech/CMM Operator level 3 or 4 to support various programs in the Fabrication Center located in Lake Charles, Louisiana.
The Level 3 or 4 Dimension Control Tech/CMM (Coordinate Measuring Machine) Operator is responsible for performing advanced dimensional inspections using CMM equipment to verify product conformance to engineering drawings, models, and specifications. This role programs and operates CMMs, analyzes complex inspection results, and partners with Manufacturing, Quality Engineering, and Engineering to resolve discrepancies. The operator applies a high degree of technical competency and judgment to support root‑cause analysis, continuous improvement, and compliance with internal and customer requirements.
**This position will require the selected individual to work overtime, or possibly change shifts, to include nights and weekends to support the mission.
Your duties and responsibilities include:
Program, set up, and operate CMMs to perform dimensional inspections on components, assemblies, and tooling in support of production, first article inspection (FAI), and qualification activities.
Interpret complex engineering drawings, 3D models, GD&T callouts, specifications, and work instructions to develop accurate inspection plans.
Create, edit, and optimize CMM programs (e.g., PC‑DMIS, Zeiss Calypso (preferred), or equivalent) to ensure efficient, repeatable, and accurate measurement routines.
Perform detailed dimensional inspections and record, analyze, and validate results; compare data to drawing/model requirements and specifications.
Identify, document, and communicate nonconformances; work with Quality Engineering, Manufacturing, and Engineering to support root‑cause analysis and corrective actions.
Maintain configuration control of CMM programs, fixtures, and associated inspection documentation in accordance with internal procedures and customer requirements.
Verify calibration status and proper setup of CMMs, probes, fixturing, and reference artifacts before use; report equipment issues and assist with troubleshooting.
Support FAI, PPAP, and other documentation packages by providing accurate dimensional reports and traceable records.
Mentor and provide technical guidance to less experienced inspectors and CMM operators; share best practices and support cross‑training.
Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives focused on reducing inspection time, improving accuracy, and enhancing throughput and quality.
Comply with all applicable procedures, work instructions, safety requirements, and quality system requirements (e.g., AS9100 or equivalent).
Basic Qualifications: This position may hire at a level 3 or level 4 based on the experience level determined during the interview.
Level 3: A High School diploma or equivalent (GED) and a minimum of 4 years of CMM Operator experience. A technical diploma in a related field of experience and a minimum of 2 yrs of related experience may also be considered.
Level 4: A High School diploma or equivalent (GED) and a minimum of 6 years of CMM Operator experience. A technical diploma in a related field of experience and a minimum of 4 yrs of related experience may also be considered.
Demonstrated experience programming and operating CMMs using a recognized CMM software package (e.g., PC‑DMIS, Zeiss Calypso (preferred), MODUS, or equivalent).
Strong ability to read and interpret complex engineering drawings, 3D models, and GD&T in accordance with ASME Y14.5 or equivalent standards to interpret precise design tolerances and product specifications.
Proven experience performing detailed dimensional inspections on close‑tolerance components and assemblies in a manufacturing or aerospace/defense environment.
Proficiency with measurement and inspection tools (e.g., micrometers, calipers, height gages, optical devices) and understanding of basic metrology principles.
Ability to analyze inspection data, identify trends/nonconformances, and clearly communicate results and issues both verbally and in writing.
Demonstrated ability to follow documented procedures, work instructions, and quality system requirements.
Ability to work with minimal supervision, manage priorities in a fast‑paced production environment, and collaborate effectively with cross‑functional teams.
Be flexible in work skills and daily tasks assigned including working any shift, overtime and weekends.
Preferred Qualifications:
6 or more years of experience in dimensional inspection, metrology, or precision manufacturing, including 4+ years of hands‑on CMM operation; or an equivalent combination of education and experience as determined by the hiring manager.
Experience in an aerospace, defense, or similarly regulated manufacturing environment.
Formal training or certification in CMM programming or dimensional metrology. (Zeiss Calypso preferred)
Expert‑level proficiency with one or more CMM software platforms (e.g., advanced PC‑DMIS or Zeiss Calypso programming (preferred), parametric programming, or automation).
Experience with model‑based definition (MBD) and directly inspecting to 3D CAD models.
Familiarity with AS9102 First Article Inspection and generation of FAIRs/FAI reports.
Working knowledge of quality management systems such as AS9100 or ISO 9001.
Experience using quality/ERP/MES systems (e.g., SAP, Solumina, TipQA, or equivalent) for routing, nonconformance, and inspection record management.
Demonstrated leadership in mentoring or training junior inspectors/operators or leading small improvement initiatives.
Company at a glance
We are a close-knit community of big thinkers collaborating to keep the world safe. Our passion, creativity and expertise bring next-level technology solutions to life in autonomous systems, cyber, C4ISR, strike, space, and logistics and modernization for our customers around the globe.
On the Northrop Grumman team, you’ll join our pursuit of excellence immersed in a dynamic culture of innovation and respect. Your unique perspective will help achieve our shared vision for the future of global security. Every step of the way, you'll be supported by world-class training, employee resource groups and a comprehensive benefits package that enables greater health and happiness for you and your family.
Worldwide and across disciplines, we’re challenging what’s possible for technology to protect people and places from undersea to outer space and into cyberspace. And we see the impact of our performance every day. We are Northrop Grumman, and we work on what matters—now, you too can make a difference.
Explore opportunities in engineering, IT, manufacturing, business management, cybersecurity and more at jobs.northropgrumman.com/careers.
Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.
Our careers site can be found at jobs.northropgrumman.com/careers. If you are contacted about a job at Northrop Grumman, please verify the email came from the domain @ngc.com before engaging with that contact. If you are contacted by a Northrop Grumman recruiter on LinkedIn, please that their profile includes the verified check mark to ensure the contact is legitimate.
Top Benefits
- Health insurance coverage
- Life insurance
- Disability insurance
- Savings plan
- Company paid holidays
- Paid time off
- Relocation assistance
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