1

Fai Inspector Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Inspector Senior

Irvine, CA · On-site

$27 - $38/hr

Perform First Article Inspections (FAI) and envelope inspections; maintain accurate acceptance and rejection records. * Interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and customer requirements to ...

Sheetmetal Inspector

Fremont, CA · On-site

$28 - $30/hr

Generate, review, and archive accurate inspection reports, first-article inspection (FAI) reports, and dimensional test data. * Non-Conformance Reporting (NCR): Identify, segregate, and document out ...

Quality Inspector 1

Simi Valley, CA · On-site

$13.78 - $16.92/hr

Knowledge of ISO 9001 and aerospace standards such as AS9100; experience doing first article inspections (FAI) per Aerospace Standards. * Ability to follow detailed job instructions and apply ...

Review and approve First Article Inspections (FAI) and other quality documentation. * Familiarity with AS9102 Rev C, preferred * Identify non-conformances and collaborate with suppliers to resolve

Documentation & Reporting o Complete inspection reports, First Article Inspections (FAI) per AS9102 o Maintain accurate quality records and traceability documentation o Document nonconformances and ...

Review and approve First Article Inspections (FAI) and other quality documentation. * Familiarity with AS9102 Rev C, preferred * Identify non-conformances and collaborate with suppliers to resolve

Review and approve First Article Inspections (FAI) and other quality documentation. * Familiarity with AS9102 Rev C, preferred * Identify non-conformances and collaborate with suppliers to resolve

Review and approve First Article Inspections (FAI) and other quality documentation. * Familiarity with AS9102 Rev C, preferred * Identify non-conformances and collaborate with suppliers to resolve

Collect measurement data for use in First Article Inspection (FAI) reports. * Collect and provide data required for the critical part of Final Inspection Reports (FIRs) * Perform roving in-process ...

Showing results 41-60

Fai Inspector information

What is a FAI inspector?

FAI Inspectors, or First Article Inspectors, are quality control professionals responsible for verifying that a new or modified product meets all engineering, design, and specification requirements before full-scale production begins. They conduct detailed inspections and documentation during the First Article Inspection (FAI) process, ensuring that the manufacturing process is capable of consistently producing parts that meet quality standards. FAI Inspectors play a crucial role in industries like aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing, where precision and compliance are essential. Their work helps catch defects early and ensures regulatory and customer requirements are satisfied.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a FAI inspector?

To thrive as a FAI (First Article Inspection) Inspector, you need a solid understanding of quality control processes, blueprint reading, and inspection techniques, typically supported by a background in manufacturing or engineering. Proficiency with measurement tools (calipers, micrometers, CMM), familiarity with AS9102 standards, and experience with quality management systems (QMS) are often required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for identifying discrepancies and reporting findings accurately. These skills ensure that components meet strict specifications, supporting product quality and compliance in regulated industries.

What are some common challenges faced by FAI inspectors and how can they be effectively managed?

FAI Inspectors often encounter challenges such as tight production deadlines, interpreting complex engineering drawings, and ensuring all parts meet exacting standards. Managing these challenges requires strong attention to detail, effective communication with engineering and production teams, and proficiency in using measurement tools and quality management systems. Staying organized and continuously updating technical knowledge can help FAI Inspectors efficiently address discrepancies and maintain high-quality standards.

What is the difference between Fai Inspector vs Building Inspector?

AspectFai InspectorBuilding Inspector
Required CredentialsCertification in FAI inspection, relevant safety and quality standardsBuilding inspection certification, state or local licensing
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, quality control settingsConstruction sites, residential and commercial buildings
Employer & IndustryManufacturing companies, quality assurance firmsGovernment agencies, construction companies

Fai Inspectors focus on quality assurance in manufacturing environments, ensuring products meet standards. Building Inspectors evaluate construction sites and buildings for safety and compliance. While both roles require inspection skills, their industries, credentials, and work settings differ significantly.

What are popular job titles related to Fai Inspector jobs in California?

For Fai Inspector jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Fai Inspector jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Fai Inspector jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Fai Inspector job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Quality Inspector II - 1st Shift

Howmet Aerospace

Fullerton, CA • On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


Howmet Aerospace rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 166 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

49th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Howmet Aerospace Inc. (NYSE: HWM), headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a leading global provider of advanced engineered solutions for the aerospace and transportation industries. Our primary businesses focus on jet engine components, aerospace fastening systems, titanium structural parts and forged wheels. With $8.3 Billion in revenue in 2025, our products play a crucial role in enabling fuel efficiency and lightweighting, contributing to our customers' success and making a positive impact on the world. To learn more about the way Howmet Aerospace Inc. is advancing the sustainability of our customers, markets, and communities where we operate, review the 2025 Environmental Social and Governance report at www.howmet.com/esg-report. Follow: LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

Howmet is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.

If you need assistance to complete your application due to a disability, please email TalentAcquisitionCoE_Howmet@howmet.com

Howmet Fastening Systems (HFS) is a business unit of Howmet Aerospace, headquartered in Torrance, California.  We hold the number one global position in aerospace fastening systems, and we're the North American leader in commercial transportation fasteners. Our high-tech, multi-material fastening systems are found nose to tail on aircraft and aerospace engines. Our products are also critical components of industrial gas turbines, automobiles, commercial transportation vehicles, and construction and industrial equipment.

Required Qualifications

             High school diploma or GED equivalent 

             3+ years of experience in machining inspection within a manufacturing environment (aerospace preferred)

             3+ years of experience utilizing precise measurement tools inclusive of, but not limited to Calipers, micrometers, dial indicators, Height gauges, surface plates, Optical comparators, Thread gauges, plug gauges, Surface roughness testers

             1+ years of experience reading and interpreting blueprint and engineering drawings.

Preferred Qualifications:

             Aerospace manufacturing experience

             ASQ certification (CQI) is a plus

             Experience with FAI (AS9102) strongly preferred

             AS9100 experience 

             Strong understanding of: 

o             GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing)

o             Aerospace quality standards (AS9100, AS9102)

             Proficiency with: 

o             CMM (Coordinate Measuring Machines)

o             Inspection tools (manual and digital)

             Knowledge of: 

o             Machining processes (CNC milling, turning, grinding)

o             Materials used in aerospace (aluminum, titanium, Inconel, etc.)

             Attention to detail and high level of accuracy

             Ability to read complex blueprints and specs

Work Environment

             Manufacturing or machine shop floor

             Controlled environments 

             Requires standing, handling parts, and working with precision instruments

Compensation Range: 

$25.00 - $30.00 per hour. 

Role Summary

A Quality Assurance (QA) Inspector in aerospace machining ensures that precision machined parts meet strict aerospace standards, customer specifications, and regulatory requirements. This role is critical for safety, compliance, and product reliability in aerospace manufacturing.

Key Responsibilities

             Inspection & Measurement

o             Inspect machined components using precision tools (calipers, micrometers, height gauges, bore gauges, CMM)

o             Verify dimensions, tolerances, and surface finishes against engineering drawings and specifications

             Blueprint & Spec Interpretation

o             Read and interpret complex aerospace drawings (GD&T per ASME Y14.5)

o             Ensure compliance with customer and industry standards (AS9100, NADCAP, FAA requirements)

             Documentation & Reporting

o             Complete inspection reports, First Article Inspections (FAI) per AS9102

o             Maintain accurate quality records and traceability documentation

o             Document nonconformances and support corrective actions

             Process Verification

o             Perform in-process inspections during machining operations

o             Verify setups, tooling, and process parameters

             Material & Certification Review

o             Check material certifications, heat treatment records, and special process documentation

o             Ensure full traceability of aerospace components

             Nonconformance Handling

o             Identify defects and segregate nonconforming parts

o             Participate in root cause analysis and corrective/preventive actions (CAPA)


What Howmet Aerospace employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Howmet Aerospace logo

About Howmet Aerospace

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Howmet Aerospace Inc. (NYSE: HWM), headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a leading global provider of advanced engineered solutions for the aerospace and transportation industries. The Company's sales for 2021 approximated $5 billion. The Company's primary businesses focus on jet engine components, aerospace fastening systems, titanium structural parts and forged wheels. With nearly 1,150 granted and pending patents, the Company's differentiated technologies promote more fuel efficiency for aircraft and commercial transportation. Howmet is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Industry

Aviation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Pittsburgh, PA, US

Year founded

1888