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First Article Inspection Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

What You'll Do You'll be at the center of First Article Inspection activities, working across quality, engineering, production, suppliers, and customers to ensure every requirement is documented and ...

What You'll Do You'll be at the center of First Article Inspection activities, working across quality, engineering, production, suppliers, and customers to ensure every requirement is documented and ...

Performs first article inspection on production units * Ability to read, comprehend and securely handle customers prints, work instructions and procedures. * Perform visual inspections. * Able to ...

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Quality Inspector I

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Performance: 1. Guides production, receiving inspection, test and determines the quality and conformance of products to the specification 2. Performs first article inspection on production units 3. ...

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The role includes first article, in-process, and final inspection, working closely with machinists, programmers, and engineers to ensure parts meet customer specifications. Experience with other CMM ...

The role includes first article, in-process, and final inspection, working closely with machinists, programmers, and engineers to ensure parts meet customer specifications. Experience with other CMM ...

The role includes first article, in-process, and final inspection, working closely with machinists, programmers, and engineers to ensure parts meet customer specifications. Experience with other CMM ...

Prepare and review First Article Inspection Reports (FAIR) IAW AS9102 and perform customer source inspections * Maintain calibration recall and records and prepare certifications per applicable ...

Create and review First Article Inspection Reports (FAIR) in accordance with AS9102 * Perform customer source inspections and issue Authorized Release Certificates/Tags * Maintain inspection records ...

Mechanical Inspector-2nd Shift

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$24 - $32/hr

Collect measurement data for use in First Article Inspection (FAI) reports * Collect and provide data required for critical part Final Inspection Reports (FIRs) Qualifications: * 0-2 years ...

FAI / CMM Inspector

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$24.25 - $31.25/hr

Perform FAI (First Article Inspection) * GD&T / Proficient at advanced mechanical inspection * Manual CMM inspection using CMM Manager or equivalent * Perform spot checks (In-process Inspection)

FAI / CMM Inspector

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$24.25 - $31.25/hr

Operate CMM (must have experience)Perform FAI (First Article Inspection)GD&T / Proficient at advanced mechanical inspectionManual CMM inspection using CMM Manager or equivalentPerform spot checks (In ...

Strong proficiency in GD&T (ASME Y14.5). * Solid understanding of AS9102 First Article Inspection requirement. * Experience with inspection tools (CMM, height gages, calipers, micrometers, etc.

AZ Mechanical Inspector I

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$23.75 - $31.50/hr

Collect measurement data for use in First Article Inspection (FAI) reports * Collect and provide data required for critical part Final Inspection Reports (FIRs) Qualifications: * 0-2 years ...

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First Article Inspection information

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a first article inspector?

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 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 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.

Infographic showing various First Article Inspection job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution.

First Article Inspector

PDS Tech Commercial

Tucson, AZ

$25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Build Quality Into Every Flight, Become a First Article Inspector in Aerospace 

Location: Tucson, AZ | Payrate: $25/hour | Schedule: 1st shift, 7am to 3:30pm 

PDS Tech Commercial is partnering with a leader in the aerospace industry to hire an experienced First Article Inspector who understands that precision isn’t optional—it’s mission-critical. 

As a First Article Inspector, you’ll play a vital role on the Operations Quality team, independently verifying that complex aerospace assemblies meet engineering requirements, customer specifications, and rigorous industry standards. Your expertise will help ensure manufacturing processes consistently deliver defect-free, compliant products ready for the demands of aerospace. 

What You’ll Do 

You’ll be at the center of First Article Inspection activities, working across quality, engineering, production, suppliers, and customers to ensure every requirement is documented and met. 

Your responsibilities will include: 

  • Generate, create, and assemble complete First Article Inspection Reports (FAIRs), including AS9102 Forms 1, 2, and 3, for new product introductions, engineering changes, and customer requirements. 

  • Inspect in-process and finished complex aerospace assemblies for compliance with engineering drawings, IPC workmanship standards, and customer specifications. 

  • Perform and drive Partial/Delta FAIs resulting from design, tooling, or process modifications. 

  • Lead full assembly FAIs across high-reliability electronic and mechanical product lines. 

  • Interpret complex engineering blueprints, schematics, and technical specifications. 

  • Collaborate with Quality Engineering and Production Management to identify and resolve compliance issues. 

  • Coordinate and validate supplier certifications, Certificates of Conformance (CoCs), raw material test reports, CMM inspection data, and other documentation required for FAIR approval. 

  • Prepare and submit inspection packages through customer quality portals and digital FAI systems such as NetInspect. 

  • Serve as a key point of contact for customer FAIR submissions, managing feedback, corrections, revisions, and final sign-offs. 

  • Compile, organize, and maintain detailed technical data packages, certificates, and quality records. 

  • Manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced aerospace manufacturing environment. 

  • Work overtime when necessary to support production schedules and customer commitments. 

What You Bring 

Required Qualifications 

  • 4–6 years of relevant experience in quality inspection, first article inspection, aerospace manufacturing, or a related field. 

  • In-depth knowledge of AS9100 and AS9102 standards and First Article Inspection methodologies. 

  • Strong ability to interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, schematics, and technical specifications. 

  • Experience compiling, organizing, and maintaining complex quality documentation and technical data packages. 

  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate across quality, engineering, production, supplier, and customer teams. 

  • Excellent organization and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple FAIs and competing priorities. 

  • Ability to work effectively in a dynamic, high-velocity manufacturing environment. 

  • Additional coursework after high school or an equivalent combination of education and experience. 

Preferred Qualifications 

  • Hands-on experience with NetInspect or equivalent digital FAI software. 

  • Proficiency with precision metrology tools and mechanical measurement techniques. 

  • Experience verifying CMM inspection reports. 

  • Experience preparing and submitting inspection packages through customer quality portals. 

  • Experience supporting customer FAIR reviews, corrections, and approvals. 

  • Aerospace or other highly regulated manufacturing experience. 

  • Familiarity with IPC workmanship standards and high-reliability electronic and mechanical assemblies. 

Ready to Make Precision Your Profession? 

If you’re a quality professional who takes pride in getting the details right—and you’re ready to put your expertise to work in aerospace—we want to hear from you. 

Apply today with PDS Tech Commercial and take the next step toward a career where your work helps ensure every product meets the standards of excellence aerospace demands. 

This position requires use of information or access to facilities subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or Export Administration Regulations (EAR). These regulations may limit access of controlled technologies: 1) to U.S. Persons, including U.S. Citizens, lawful permanent residents, and other narrow categories including refugees and asylees, or 2) to certain foreign nationals that have received an export license.      


Pay Details: $25.00 per hour
Benefit offerings available for our associates include medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, additional voluntary benefits, EAP program, commuter benefits and a 401K plan. Our benefit offerings provide employees the flexibility to choose the type of coverage that meets their individual needs. In addition, our associates may be eligible for paid leave including Paid Sick Leave or any other paid leave required by Federal, State, or local law, as well as Holiday pay where applicable.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled
Military connected talent encouraged to apply
To read our Candidate Privacy Information Statement, which explains how we will use your information, please navigate to https://www.pdstech.com/candidate-privacy
The Company will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in accordance with federal, state, and local laws and/or security clearance requirements, including, as applicable:
  • The California Fair Chance Act
  • Los Angeles City Fair Chance Ordinance
  • Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers
  • San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance

Massachusetts Candidates Only: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.



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About PDS Tech

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Founded in 1977, PDS Tech, Inc. is one of the nation's premier specialty staffing firms with 31 offices nationwide.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Irving, TX, US

Year founded

1977

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