As an Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering Quality Assurance Inspector with the Department of National Defence, you will play a critical role in ensuring that defence equipment, components, and systems meet strict quality standards and specifications. You will inspect manufactured products, conduct quality audits, and verify compliance with engineering drawings, technical specifications, and regulatory requirements throughout the production process. Your work directly supports the delivery of reliable and safe defence capabilities to the Canadian Armed Forces.
In this role, you will perform detailed inspections using various measurement tools and techniques, document findings, and communicate quality issues to production teams and engineering staff. You may work in manufacturing facilities, inspection laboratories, or field environments, examining everything from precision components to complex assemblies. Your attention to detail and technical knowledge will help identify defects early, prevent costly errors, and maintain the highest standards of quality assurance.
You will collaborate with engineers, production supervisors, and other quality professionals to resolve quality concerns and implement corrective actions. This position offers the opportunity to make a tangible difference in defence procurement by ensuring that every product delivered meets the exacting standards required by the Canadian Armed Forces.
Key Responsibilities
Perform industrial and manufacturing engineering analysis, design, and review, Prepare technical specifications and engineering documents, Conduct inspections, assessments, and quality reviews, Ensure compliance with applicable codes and standards
Required Skills
Technical analysis, Design and drafting tools (CAD), Project management, Regulatory knowledge, Problem-solving, Technical proficiency, Attention to detail, Collaboration, Continuous learning
Typical Education
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
To qualify for this position, you will typically need a secondary school diploma or equivalent, combined with technical training or practical experience in manufacturing, quality control, or inspection. Many successful candidates hold a diploma or certificate in industrial technology, manufacturing processes, quality assurance, or a related field from a recognized technical or community college.
Relevant certifications are highly valued, including ISO 9001 Quality Management Systems, AS9100 aerospace quality standards, or CSA certifications specific to defence manufacturing. Some positions may prefer or require experience with statistical process control, geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T), or familiarity with inspection equipment such as coordinate measuring machines (CMM) and precision gauges.
Professional development opportunities within the Department of National Defence include technical training in specialized inspection techniques, advanced quality management systems, and software tools used in defence manufacturing. Many employees pursue additional certifications through professional engineering associations and technical institutes to advance their careers and expertise.
Entry Plans
Entry into this career with the Department of National Defence typically occurs through open competitions advertised on the Government of Canada's official job board (jobs.gc.ca). Positions may be advertised as competitions open to Canadian citizens, and candidates are evaluated based on their education, certifications, technical skills, and relevant work experience.
The Public Service Commission may also maintain pools of pre-screened candidates for quality assurance and inspection positions, allowing for faster hiring when vacancies arise. Some candidates enter through lateral moves from related quality control or manufacturing positions within the federal public service or the Canadian Armed Forces.
Student or graduate recruitment programs may also provide pathways for recent graduates with relevant diplomas or degrees. Temporary or term positions in quality assurance are sometimes available and can lead to permanent employment opportunities. Applicants are encouraged to regularly check jobs.gc.ca for current openings and to tailor their applications to demonstrate relevant technical competencies and inspection experience.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements for Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering Quality Assurance Inspector positions depend on operational requirements and the specific work location. Some inspection and quality assurance roles may offer flexible scheduling options, particularly in laboratory-based settings or in coordination with production schedules.
Remote work is generally limited for this role, as hands-on inspection and measurement of physical products is a core responsibility. However, some quality documentation, reporting, and administrative tasks may be performed remotely, depending on departmental policy and role requirements.
Candidates interested in part-time, job-sharing, or flexible work arrangements are encouraged to discuss these options during the recruitment process or with their manager once hired. The Department of National Defence supports work-life balance initiatives where operationally feasible, and employees may be able to negotiate arrangements that suit their personal circumstances.
