1

Fai Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

FAI Quality Engineer

Black Mountain, NC · On-site

$68K - $88K/yr

Coordinate FAI activities among Engineering, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Program Management, Quality, and Customer representatives. * Perform data collection, analysis, and reporting activities ...

Knowledgeable of Engineering drawings/models * Basic knowledge of CATIA * Develops, applies, and ... Follow programs, documents, FAI, drawings, specifications and quality standards to perform ...

FAI Inspector

Wichita, KS · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Knowledgeable of Engineering drawings/models * Basic knowledge of CATIA * Develops, applies, and ... Follow programs, documents, FAI, drawings, specifications and quality standards to perform ...

Hiring: FAI Reviewer

Wichita, KS · On-site

$45K - $60K/yr

Fulltime One of our Reputed Customers is looking for the Supplier FAI (First Article Inspection) Review Engineer for long term assignments. Initial Assignment would be Work from home. Later on, as ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Fai Engineer information

See salary details

$26K

$82.5K

$158K

How much do fai engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for fai engineer in the United States is $82,474.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,500.00 and $103,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a FAI (First Article Inspection) Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a FAI Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, quality control, and familiarity with industry standards such as AS9102, often supported by a degree in engineering or a related field. Proficiency with measurement tools, CAD software, and quality management systems is typically required, along with certifications like Six Sigma or ASQ CQE being advantageous. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong communication skills help an FAI Engineer effectively identify discrepancies and collaborate with production teams. These skills are crucial for ensuring that manufactured components meet specifications and regulatory requirements, thereby maintaining product quality and customer satisfaction.

What is an FAI in engineering?

In engineering, FAI stands for First Article Inspection, a process where the initial production sample is thoroughly examined to ensure it meets design specifications and quality standards. It is often performed before full-scale production and involves detailed measurements, documentation, and verification using tools like calipers or CMMs. FAI helps identify issues early and ensures consistent quality throughout manufacturing.

What is the difference between Fai Engineer vs Fai Technician?

AspectFai EngineerFai Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field, certifications may varyTechnical diploma or associate degree, relevant certifications
Work EnvironmentDesign, development, and troubleshooting of FAI processes, often in engineering labs or manufacturing settingsHands-on testing, equipment setup, and process verification in manufacturing environments
ResponsibilitiesDeveloping FAI procedures, analyzing data, improving processesExecuting FAI tests, recording results, maintaining equipment

Fai Engineers focus on designing and improving FAI processes, requiring higher-level technical skills and planning. Fai Technicians perform the hands-on testing and data collection necessary for FAI, often working under supervision. Both roles are essential in ensuring product quality and compliance in manufacturing industries.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior engineers in fields such as software engineering, petroleum engineering, and aerospace engineering often earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills, and advanced certifications. High-paying roles typically require expertise in complex systems, leadership responsibilities, or working in high-demand industries.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in fields such as software engineering, petroleum engineering, and aerospace engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills, and working in high-paying industries or leadership roles. Compensation often includes base salary, bonuses, and stock options, particularly in technology and energy sectors.

What are FAI Engineers?

FAI Engineers, or First Article Inspection Engineers, are professionals responsible for verifying that a newly manufactured product or part meets all specified engineering, design, and quality requirements before it enters full-scale production. They review technical drawings, perform inspections, and document their findings to ensure compliance with industry standards. FAI Engineers play a critical role in quality assurance, especially in industries like aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing, where precision and safety are paramount.

What are some common challenges FAI Engineers face when coordinating with cross-functional teams during the First Article Inspection process?

FAI Engineers often encounter challenges related to communication and alignment when working with cross-functional teams such as quality, manufacturing, and supply chain. Ensuring that all parties understand the specific requirements and documentation standards for First Article Inspections can be complex, especially when dealing with multiple suppliers or new product introductions. Timely gathering of data, addressing non-conformances, and maintaining traceability are also frequent hurdles. Effective collaboration, attention to detail, and familiarity with relevant industry standards like AS9102 are key to overcoming these challenges.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, data engineering, or engineering management can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. These roles typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and work in high-demand industries or companies, such as technology giants or financial firms.
More about Fai Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Fai Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Fai Engineer job openings:
What job categories do people searching Fai Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Fai Engineer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Fai Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,474 per year, or $39.7 per hour.
FAI Quality Engineer

FAI Quality Engineer

Kearfott Corporation

Black Mountain, NC • On-site

$68K - $88K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted yesterday


Kearfott rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Founded in 1918, Kearfott Corporation, a global Aerospace and Defense supplier for over 100 years, is a leader in the design and manufacture of precision motion control products and inertial navigation components.
Kearfott has a very long history of innovation and excellence and is the go-to brand for many of our global clients. Kearfott is trusted, respected and plays a vital role in the success of America's aerospace and defense industries. With over a century of expertise & experience, Kearfott is dedicated to providing quality, reliability, and cutting-edge technology to customers worldwide to meet their sea, land, air, and space navigation and guidance requirements.
Kearfott offers a comprehensive benefits package including a 401K, and Tuition Reimbursement. We offer a 9/80 schedule with every other Friday off.
We are looking for talented individuals who want to be part of a world-class work force. Join Kearfott and become part of a company that is recognized for technical expertise and respected world-wide as a 'full service' provider.
For more information, visit our website at www.kearfott.com
Position Description:
Coordinate the First Article Inspection (FAI) process to collect verification data and prepare required FAI documentation. Interface with customer representatives regarding FAI schedules, status, requirements, and deliverables.
Essential Functions:
Support and improve the First Article Inspection process from an engineering perspective, including verification planning, requirement accountability, data capture, AS9102 documentation, customer reporting, and cross-functional coordination. Drive future-state improvements in FAI processes and software tools to improve efficiency, accuracy, traceability, and reporting quality.
Critical Competencies:
  • Working knowledge of inspection methodologies, metrology principles, and measurement systems used to verify aerospace component and assembly requirements.
  • Thorough understanding of GD&T in accordance with ASME Y14.5.
  • Thorough understanding of AS9102 First Article Inspection requirements and aerospace customer-specific FAI requirements.
  • Ability to review engineering drawings, specifications, CAD models, and purchase order requirements to identify all product characteristics requiring verification.
  • Engineering knowledge of material, mechanical, electrical, and manufacturing principles. Ability to determine required inspection, test, and design verification data for FAI reports.
  • Experience with FAI software and Microsoft Office applications.
  • Coordinate FAI activities among Engineering, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Program Management, Quality, and Customer representatives.
  • Perform data collection, analysis, and reporting activities supporting engineering investigations, root cause analysis, and process improvement initiatives.
  • Investigate FAI escapes, documentation discrepancies, and requirement interpretation issues using structured problem-solving techniques.
  • Support implementation and optimization of digital FAI tools and automated reporting systems.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.

Required Experience:
  • Associate or bachelor's degree in engineering (or related technical discipline) required.
  • 1-3 years professional experience in engineering, quality, manufacturing, or aerospace-related disciplines strongly preferred.
  • Solid communication skills, both written and verbal, across functional areas.
  • Experience with Net Inspect, Visual FAIR, DISCUS, or similar FAI automation and reporting software preferred.
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen and eligible to work on U.S. Government programs.

Equal Opportunity Employer/including Disabled/Veterans

What Kearfott employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom