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First Article Inspection Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Motive Companies

First Article Inspectors

Carson, CA · On-site

$38 - $48/hr

Maintain documentation in compliance with AS9100 and internal quality procedures Pre-Flight Checklist: * 15+ years of aerospace First Article Inspection experience REQUIRED * Strong knowledge of ...

Motive Companies

First Article Inspectors

Carson, CA

$38 - $48/hr

Maintain documentation in compliance with AS9100 and internal quality procedures Pre-Flight Checklist: * 15+ years of aerospace First Article Inspection experience REQUIRED * Strong knowledge of ...

PRINCETON TOOL INC

First Article Inspector

Tampa, FL · On-site

$27.50 - $30/hr

Prepare and execute CMM programs for first article inspection of complex aerospace and defense components. * Document and review inspection results, highlighting any non-conformances or deviations ...

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How much do first article inspection jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for first article inspection in the United States is $20.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a First Article Inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as a First Article Inspector, you need a solid understanding of quality assurance processes, blueprint reading, and precision measurement techniques, often supported by experience in manufacturing or a related certification like ASQ. Proficiency with inspection tools such as calipers, micrometers, coordinate measuring machines (CMM), and familiarity with documentation systems like FAI forms and quality management software is essential. Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are critical soft skills for accurately documenting and reporting inspection results. These competencies ensure that products meet required specifications, minimize defects, and maintain compliance with customer and regulatory standards.

What are some common challenges faced during the First Article Inspection (FAI) process and how can they be managed?

One common challenge in First Article Inspection is ensuring all documentation and parts meet the exact specifications outlined by engineering drawings and customer requirements. Miscommunication between production, quality, and engineering teams can lead to delays or non-conformances. To manage these issues, it’s vital to establish clear checklists, maintain open communication channels, and utilize standardized FAI forms. Familiarity with industry standards like AS9102 and working closely with cross-functional teams can greatly streamline the process and minimize errors.

What is First Article Inspection?

First Article Inspection (FAI) is a quality control process used in manufacturing to verify that a new or modified production process produces parts that meet all specified requirements. During FAI, the first item produced is thoroughly examined and measured against design specifications, drawings, and other requirements. This inspection helps identify problems early in the production process, ensuring that future items will consistently meet quality standards. FAI is commonly used in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and electronics.

What is the difference between First Article Inspection vs Quality Control Inspector?

AspectFirst Article InspectionQuality Control Inspector
PurposeVerify that a new product meets design specifications before full productionMonitor and inspect ongoing production to ensure quality standards are maintained
TimingPerformed on the initial production run or prototypeConducted throughout the manufacturing process
FocusDesign conformance and compliance with specificationsProduct quality, defect detection, and process adherence
CredentialsKnowledge of engineering drawings, standards, and inspection methodsUnderstanding of quality standards, inspection techniques, and industry regulations

First Article Inspection focuses on verifying that a new product or component meets all design and quality specifications before mass production begins. In contrast, a Quality Control Inspector continuously monitors ongoing production to identify defects and ensure consistent quality. Both roles are essential in manufacturing but serve different stages of the quality assurance process.

More about First Article Inspection jobs
What cities are hiring for First Article Inspection jobs? Cities with the most First Article Inspection job openings:
What states have the most First Article Inspection jobs? States with the most job openings for First Article Inspection jobs include:
What job categories do people searching First Article Inspection jobs look for? The top searched job categories for First Article Inspection jobs are:
First Article Inspection jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Article Inspection job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 30% Full Time, 56% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 11% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $42,417 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

Quality Technician - First Article Inspection

amphenol

Allen, TX

$16.75 - $22.50/hr

Other

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

 Position requires candidates to be U.S. person as defined in ITAR, 22CFR 120.15 (U.S. Citizenship or Resident Alien Status)

Amphenol Fiber Systems International (AFSI) is a full-service fiber optic company specializing in the fabrication and manufacture of fiber optic connectivity products and systems.  Our commitment to technical excellence makes us an industry leader in providing sophisticated products and professional technical assistance in the fiber optic industry.  AFSI, located in Allen, Texas, has and will continue to base its strategy on technical and application support, quality assurance, product performance and value

Essential Functions:

• Perform and monitors inspection activities for First Article Inspection assemblies that are contractually required.
• Read and interpret customer contractual requirements as it defines AS9102 FAI verification.
• Inspects and verifies fiber optic assemblies to ensure they meet customer and AFSI assembly drawings.
• Solid working knowledge of Microsoft Office package (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint).
• Ability to create an AS9102 FAI Report (Form 1: Part Number Accountability Form Instructions, Form 2: Product Accountability Material, Special Processes and functional Testing and Form 3: Characteristic Accountability, Verification and Compatibility Evaluation). 
• Ability to create bubble charts and document attribute and variable characteristics (and tolerances). 
• Ability to read and interpret customer and internal drawings.
• Solid understanding of SAE AS9102, Aerospace First Article Inspection Requirements. 
• Interface with Engineering, Sales, Quality and Manufacturing staff in resolving FAI conformance issues.
• Ability to acquire material certifications relating to AS9102 FAI detail parts and process list.
• Document inspection results into the Access Database.
• Ability to identify and document nonconformances, as required.

Qualifications / Skills
• Blueprint reading and interpreting
• Basic math (geometry) skills
• Written and verbal communication skills
• Basic computer skills (Microsoft Office Products)
• Attention to detail
• Analytical skills
• Documentation skills
• Reporting skills


Education and experience requirements:
• Experience with measuring using (calipers, rulers, meters markers, tape measure, 
and other measuring instruments).
• Two years of quality inspector experience

 Attributes aligned to our AFSI Mission

  • Detail-oriented, data-driven, and resourceful
  • Curious, collaborative, and proactive in problem-solving
  • Committed to continuous improvement and operational excellence

Amphenol Fiber Systems International complies with the laws and regulations set forth in the following EEO poster Equal Employment Opportunity is the Law

#FAI-inspector #quality-inspector #first-article-inspector

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