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First Article Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SmartTalent

1st Article Assembler

Auburn, WA · On-site

$25 - $27/hr

TITLE: 1st Article Assembler LOCATION: Auburn, WA SCHEDULE: Monday - Friday, 7:30am - 3:30pm + mandatory OT when needed PAY: $25-$27 BENEFITS OFFERED: Paid Weekly, Direct Deposit, Affordable Health ...

Freudenberg

First Article Inspector

Baldwin Park, CA · On-site

$28/hr

The incumbent is responsible for conducting first article inspections, programming and operating metrology equipment, and generating data that supports product development, process validation, and ...

Kamatics

First Article Technician

Bloomfield, CT · On-site

$24.61 - $36.91/hr

Kamatics is seeking a detail-oriented First Article Technician to support the Quality Assurance team by preparing and maintaining inspection documentation and templates for manufactured parts and ...

B&B Manufacturing Co., Inc.

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First Article Inspector III

Santa Clarita, CA · On-site

Job Summary B&B Manufacturing Co. is seeking an experienced First Article Inspection (FAI) / CMM Programmer to perform advanced inspections, develop and implement complex inspection methods, and ...

B&B Manufacturing Co., Inc.

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First Article Inspector III

Santa Clarita, CA · On-site

Job Summary B&B Manufacturing Co. is seeking an experienced First Article Inspection (FAI) / CMM Programmer to perform advanced inspections, develop and implement complex inspection methods, and ...

Koch Industries

First Article Inspector

Phillips, WI · On-site

Complete first article inspection per customer specifications and maintain appropriate records * Responsible for measuring parts and reporting any findings to engineering for submission to customer ...

Outform

First Article Intake (FAI) Specialist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18.25 - $24.50/hr

First Article Intake (FAI) Specialist The First Article Intake Specialist is responsible for evaluating and approving first article samples and die strike components to ensure compliance with ...

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How much do first article jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for first article in the United States is $48.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38.22 and $55.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a first article?

A First Article job refers to the initial production run of a part or assembly used to verify that manufacturing processes meet design specifications. It typically involves a First Article Inspection (FAI), where dimensions, materials, and other critical features are reviewed against engineering requirements. This process ensures that the production setup is correct before full-scale manufacturing begins. First Article jobs are common in industries like aerospace, automotive, and medical devices, where precision and compliance are crucial.

What does a first article inspector do?

First Article Inspectors are responsible for verifying that the first item produced in a manufacturing run meets all required specifications and standards. Each day, you can expect to review engineering drawings, conduct precise measurements using specialized tools, and document inspection results in detailed reports. You may also coordinate with engineers, machinists, and production managers to resolve any discrepancies and provide feedback for process improvements. This role is vital for maintaining quality assurance and establishing a benchmark for the rest of the production run.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the first article position?

To thrive as a First Article Inspector, you need a strong background in quality control, blueprint reading, and manufacturing processes, typically supported by experience in a similar production or inspection environment. Familiarity with measurement tools such as calipers, micrometers, CMM machines, and quality management systems (QMS) like ISO 9001 is essential. Excellent attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication skills help inspectors collaborate with production teams and document results accurately. These skills are critical to ensure that initial production samples meet all specifications, preventing costly errors in mass production.

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First Article jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Article job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,970 per year, or $48.5 per hour.

1st Article Assembler

SmartTalent

Auburn, WA • On-site

$25 - $27/hr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

SmartTalent Staffing is looking to hire 1st Article Assemblers for a manufacturer in Auburn, WA. Ideal candidate will be motivated to work full time and have a minimum of 1 year 1st Article assembly or related assemble experience (details below).

TITLE: 1st Article Assembler

LOCATION: Auburn, WA

SCHEDULE: Monday – Friday, 7:30am – 3:30pm + mandatory OT when needed

PAY: $25-$27

BENEFITS OFFERED: Paid Weekly, Direct Deposit, Affordable Health Care, Full-Time, Opportunities for career growth


ABOUT THE JOB AND ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

The 1st Article Assembler builds and assembles complex wire harnesses from drawings and standard work, including soldering, crimping, testing, and documentation, while maintaining 5S standards, technical communication, and IPC/WHMA-A-620 compliance.

·Able to build complicated wire harnesses using standard work documents and/or drawings.

·Able to create Simple to understand Work Instructions using Software templates.

·Assembly of wiring harnesses using hand tools and automated machines using proper assembly techniques.

·Ability to solder and crimp contacts and splices of any awg sizes, and properly install and load connectors.

·Identify cables and wires with use of basic color code sequence or pinout.

·If needed, able to use multimeter or instrument to identify wires.

·Able to build assemblies on a Form Board Drawing and cleanly route and dress wire and cables.

·Able to communicate in technical terms with co-workers.

·Able to effectively work in a Team or Independently.

·Able to Pass IPC 620 & J Standard Certifications.

·Complete all necessary paperwork relating to the building of cable assemblies.

·Responsible for work area clean up and work bench organization to 5s standards.

·Meet company attendance standards and exhibit predictable and consistent daily attendance.


REQUIREMENTS:

·Basic math and reading skills required

·Adaptable and flexible to work additional hours on short notice to complete orders, make a schedule change or work on special projects to meet customer demands.

·Able and willing to work overtime is required.

·One year of related assemble experience.

SmartTalent Staffing is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.

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