Quality Assurance Lead/Technician

Continental Engineering and Manufacturing (CEM) is a family-owned manufacturing company based in Chaska and Frazee, Minnesota. Since 1983, we've been at the forefront of precision machining, welding, and assembly, which has complemented our original focus on drive shaft components and assemblies. We serve a diverse clientele across North America and beyond, offering CNC horizontal and vertical milling, CNC horizontal and vertical turning (with robotic loading), broaching, hobbing, balancing, painting, welding, assembly, inspection, and stocking programs all supported by continuous investments in upgrading equipment and cutting-edge technology.

At Continental, we foster a strong, positive culture that values teamwork, collaboration, respect, and the growth of every individual. With an impressive 42-year history of stability and a proud record of never having a single layoff, we provide our employees with a secure and supportive environment. We invest in our team’s future by offering training programs that empower our members to enhance their skills and advance their careers.

We are ISO 9001-2015 certified and committed to delivering cost-efficient, reliable products while building lasting relationships with customers, vendors, employees, and the community. Our air-conditioned shop, generous benefits, and strong emphasis on work-life balance make us a top choice for manufacturing professionals.

Job Summary

The Quality Assurance Lead/Technician will be responsible for ensuring that products meet company and customer quality standards through rigorous inspections, accurate documentation, and effective communication. This role plays a critical part in maintaining CEM’s reputation for exceptional quality and customer satisfaction.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Conduct inspections at various stages of production, including raw material, first article, in-process, and final inspections.
• Read and interpret part prints and machining work orders using GD&T principles.
• Program and operate CMM equipment (PC-DMIS required) for precision measurement and verification.
• Use quality inspection tools such as calipers, micrometers, bore gauges, and height gauges.
• Document inspection results accurately and maintain quality records in accordance with ISO 9001:2015 standards.
• Communicate inspection results to relevant team members and follow up on corrective actions.
• Assist with maintaining ISO 9001:2015 compliance, including supporting audits and maintaining certifications.
• Work collaboratively with production and engineering teams to ensure customer requirements are met.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; technical training in quality assurance or machining preferred.
• Experience in a manufacturing quality role, preferably in an ISO 9001:2015 certified environment.
• Proficiency in reading part prints and using GD&T.
• Experience programming and operating CMM equipment (PC-DMIS).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and quality-specific software (e.g., Gage InSite).
• Strong math skills, including fractions, percentages, geometry, and trigonometry.
• Excellent communication skills and customer-focused mindset.
• High attention to detail, organization, and dependability.

What We Offer

• Set weekday schedule – no weekends
• Air-conditioned shop
• $500 deductible medical insurance, 100% paid by CEM
• Dental & vision insurance
• Generous paid time off starting from day 1
• Paid holidays from day 1
• Annual bonuses
• 401(k) with 4% company match
• Quarterly team luncheons and holiday parties
• Stable, family-owned company with 42 years of zero layoffs