Surface Quality Inspection Technician (SQM – Flat Rolled Metals)

Surface Quality Inspection Technician (SQM – Flat Rolled Metals) Starkville, MS | On-site | Full-Time Relocation support available A modern flat-rolled metals operation in Starkville, MS is expanding its automated surface-inspection capabilities. The team is hiring a Surface Quality Inspection Technician (SQM) to support installation, maintain system accuracy, and help ensure high-quality coil and strip production. This role sits at the intersection of quality, operations, and automated inspection —working with the machine-vision tools that detect surface anomalies on high-speed processing lines. What You’ll Do Support New Line Installs & Startup • Assist in setting up, mounting, and aligning machine-vision cameras • Help configure lighting, lenses, exposure, and inspection zones • Participate in calibration runs, line trials, and acceptance tests Daily SQM System Ownership • Monitor surface-inspection alerts during coil/strip production • Adjust thresholds to minimize false calls while keeping detection accurate • Troubleshoot issues with cameras, lighting, sensors, or image quality • Maintain calibration schedules, logs, and software updates • Review defect images (streaks, chatter, inclusions, roll marks, scratches, digs) • Communicate recurring patterns or anomalies to quality/operations leaders Quality & Production Support • Help operators interpret SQM alarms and decide when to slow, adjust, or stop the line • Assist with defect investigations when results point to upstream process issues • Support continuous improvement as new alloys, widths, and tempers are introduced What You Bring • Experience in surface inspection, SQM, coil/strip quality, or related plant-floor technical roles • Familiarity with machine-vision systems (Dr. Schenk, ISRA, Cognex, Keyence, Parsytec, or similar) is a plus • Understanding of lighting, optics, cameras, or sensors helpful but not required • Strong troubleshooting instincts and comfort working on a fast-paced production line • Degree not required — hands-on metals or manufacturing experience is highly valued Benefits of Joining the Team • Hands-on ownership of new, modern inspection technology • Visible impact on product quality and line performance • Opportunity to support future expansions and upgrades • Competitive pay, bonus potential, and relocation support • Stable long-term role with strong internal support