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First Article Inspection Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

Joby Aviation

Mechanical Inspector

San Carlos, CA · On-site

$30 - $41/hr

Conduct first article inspection and generate first article inspection reports in compliance with SAE AS9102 (as required). * High-school diploma or GED plus three (3) years of on-the-job experience ...

Joby Aviation

Mechanical Inspector

San Carlos, CA · On-site

$30 - $41/hr

Conduct first article inspection and generate first article inspection reports in compliance with SAE AS9102 (as required). Required * High-school diploma or GED plus three (3) years of on-the-job ...

Joby Aviation

Mechanical Inspector

San Carlos, CA · On-site

$30 - $41/hr

Conduct first article inspection and generate first article inspection reports in compliance with SAE AS9102 (as required). Required * High-school diploma or GED plus three (3) years of on-the-job ...

Belcan

CNC Machinist II - 2nd Shift

Valencia, CA · On-site

$26.78 - $40.14/hr

The machinist will operate CNC equipment, support machine setups, edit programs as needed, adjust machining processes, perform first article/self-inspection, and work from blueprints in a precision ...

NextDeavor Inc.

Quality Inspector 1

Simi Valley, CA · On-site

$13.78 - $16.92/hr

Experience creating First Article Inspection Reports in compliance with AS9102 and customer-specific requirements. * Experience performing internal audits and recording results. * Familiarity with ...

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All JobsFirst Article Inspection JobsFirst Article Inspection Jobs in California

First Article Inspection information

See California salary details

$12

$20

$31

How much do first article inspection jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for first article inspection in California is $20.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.91 and $22.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 popular job titles related to First Article Inspection jobs in California? For First Article Inspection jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching First Article Inspection jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for First Article Inspection jobs in California are:
First Article Inspection jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Article Inspection job openings in California as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 64% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 35% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,862 per year, or $20.1 per hour.
First Article Inspectors

First Article Inspectors

Motive Companies

Carson, CA

$38 - $48/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

First Article Inspector
 Would you like to elevate aerospace manufacturing through smarter, data-driven quality systems giving you the opportunity to make a direct, measurable impact on mission-critical components?
As our First Article Inspector, can you imagine ensuring every first run of aerospace components meets the highest level of precision, compliance, and documentation before it ever reaches production?
Would you like to be part of a team where your expertise in AS9102 and detail-driven inspections directly impacts quality, traceability, and audit readiness across critical aerospace programs?
 This is where your experience isn't just valued, it's relied upon.
If you're ready to own First Article Inspections at a high level and work in an environment where precision and accountability matter,

 'APPLY' TODAY!

Navigate Your Next Mission:
We are a well-established aerospace manufacturing operation known for delivering precision components that meet strict industry and customer standards. With a strong AS9100 foundation and a commitment to continuous improvement, this is a place where experienced inspectors play a critical role in ensuring quality from the very first build.
* Competitive Pay: $38-$48/hour (DOE)
 * Comprehensive Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, 401(k), PTO, and paid holidays
 * High-Impact Role: Direct ownership of FAI packages and compliance to aerospace standards

Your Part in the Flight Plan:
* Perform complete First Article Inspections in accordance with AS9102 and customer requirements
 * Review engineering drawings, specifications, and purchase orders for full compliance
 * Validate dimensional and functional requirements using precision measuring tools
 * Generate/maintain complete FAI packages (ballooned drawings, certs, and traceability
 * Identify, document, coordinate nonconformances
 * Support internal and customer audits with accurate records and objective evidence
 * Partner with Engineering and Production to ensure first-article readiness
 * 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 AS9102, AS9100, and aerospace quality systems
 * Expert ability to read complex blueprints, GD&T, and engineering specifications
 * Proven experience building and reviewing full FAI packages (ballooning, traceability, documentation)
 * Strong understanding of machining, sheet metal, and assembly processes
Preferred:
 * Experience with CMM operation or program interpretation
 * Familiarity with FAIR software or electronic QMS/ERP systems
 * Experience supporting customer audits and source inspections (Boeing, Airbus, Lockheed, Northrop, Raytheon, Space customers)
Your Launch Window is Open:
If you take pride in precision, understand the importance of getting it right the first time, and bring deep experience in aerospace First Article Inspection, we want to hear from you.
Key Words: First Article Inspector, FAI, AS9102, AS9100, Aerospace Inspection, GD&T, Blueprint Reading, Ballooning, Traceability, Nonconformance (NCR), Quality Documentation, CMM, FAIR, Manufacturing Inspection, Aerospace Quality
Education:Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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