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First Article Inspection Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Freudenberg

First Article Inspector

Baldwin Park, CA

$28/hr

Complete first article inspection reports * Program vision systems and inspection equipment (such as CMM) for multiple cavity inspection * Capable of verifying and assuring all documentation is ...

ABC Sheet Metal

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Aerospace Quality Inspector - FARO Arm

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$35 - $43/hr

Complete and review AS9102 First Article Inspection Reports, including Forms 1, 2, and 3 * Create, review, and verify ballooned drawings and characteristic accountability reports * Read and interpret ...

Belcan

CNC Machinist II - 1st Shift

Valencia, CA · On-site

$26.78 - $40.14/hr

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

Laborup

CMM Quality Inspectors

San Jose, CA

$34 - $37/hr

First Article Inspection: Run FAIs and build detailed dimensional reports. * Blueprint Review: Interpret drawings, GD&T, and customer specs before inspecting. * In-Process Inspection: Check parts ...

Aerotek

Mechanical Inspector

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$28 - $30/hr

You use precision measurement tools, follow AS9102 First Article Inspection requirements, and apply geometric dimensioning and tolerancing principles to verify product quality and compliance.

Laborup

CMM Quality Inspectors

San Jose, CA · On-site

$34 - $37/hr

First Article Inspection: Run FAIs and build detailed dimensional reports. * Blueprint Review: Interpret drawings, GD&T, and customer specs before inspecting. * In-Process Inspection: Check parts ...

Laborup

CMM Quality Inspectors

San Jose, CA · On-site

$34 - $37/hr

First Article Inspection: Run FAIs and build detailed dimensional reports. * Blueprint Review: Interpret drawings, GD&T, and customer specs before inspecting. * In-Process Inspection: Check parts ...

Belcan

CNC Machinist II - 1st Shift

Valencia, CA · On-site

$26.78 - $40.14/hr

CNC setup experience, first article inspection experience, ability to edit CNC programs, CNC programming experience, aerospace or tight-tolerance machining background, experience with Okuma/Haas ...

Belcan

CNC Machinist II - 1st Shift

Valencia, CA · On-site

$26.78 - $40.14/hr

CNC setup experience, first article inspection experience, ability to edit CNC programs, CNC programming experience, aerospace or tight-tolerance machining background, experience with Okuma/Haas ...

Lanic Aerospace

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Quality Inspector

Huntington Beach, CA · On-site

$18 - $55/hr

Experience in First Article Inspection (FAI utilizing AS9102 inspection forms) Proficient in using precision inspection equipment, such as calipers, micrometers, various gauges, CMM/,Faro or Romer ...

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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 Aug 15, 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 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?

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, and 30% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,862 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

First Article Inspector III

B&B Manufacturing Co., Inc.

Santa Clarita, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

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Job description

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 support CMM programming activities. This role requires strong technical expertise in precision measurement, GD&T interpretation, inspection reporting, and metrology. The ideal candidate will work independently while collaborating with Engineering, Manufacturing, and Quality teams to ensure products meet customer and regulatory requirements.


Key Responsibilities


Advanced Inspection & Measurement


  • Perform advanced inspections using precision hand tools and measurement equipment with a high degree of accuracy.
  • Select appropriate inspection methods based on part geometry, tolerances, and customer specifications.
  • Interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, specifications, and GD&T requirements to verify compliance.

CMM Programming & Inspection Support


  • Program, operate, and troubleshoot Hexagon, Manual, and DCC Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMMs).
  • Develop and modify PC-DMIS inspection programs for production and First Article Inspection (FAI) requirements.
  • Set up probes, align fixtures, and validate measurement routines.
  • Troubleshoot dimensional discrepancies and CMM inspection issues through first-level problem solving.

Inspection Reporting & Documentation

  • Prepare and maintain First Article Inspection (FAI) documentation and detailed inspection reports.
  • Review inspection data for accuracy, completeness, and traceability.
  • Support the standardization of reporting formats and inspection methods.

Metrology & Equipment Support

  • Verify all inspection equipment is calibrated and suitable for use before inspections.
  • Utilize optical comparators, Keyence measurement systems, and 3D scanning equipment.
  • Assist with measurement system validation and equipment maintenance activities.

Problem Solving & Continuous Improvement

  • Investigate dimensional nonconformances and support root cause analysis.
  • Collaborate with Engineering, Manufacturing, and Quality teams to resolve inspection issues.
  • Identify opportunities to improve inspection efficiency, repeatability, and workflow consistency.

Technical Support

  • Provide technical guidance and mentoring to Level I and Level II Inspectors.
  • Share best practices related to inspection techniques, programming, and measurement strategies.
  • Assist with onboarding and training new inspection personnel.

Qualifications

Required

  • High School Diploma or GED.
  • Minimum of 4 years of inspection or metrology experience.
  • Completion of a GD&T training course with demonstrated proficiency in applying GD&T principles.
  • Strong ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and technical specifications.
  • Experience performing First Article Inspections (FAIs).
  • Experience programming and operating CMM equipment.

Preferred

  • Experience with:
    • PC-DMIS
    • Hexagon CMM systems
    • Keyence measurement systems
    • Optical comparators
    • 3D scanning systems

ITAR Requirement

This position is subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Applicants must qualify as a U.S. Person, including:

  • U.S. Citizen
  • U.S. Permanent Resident (Green Card Holder)
  • Political Asylee
  • Refugee

Physical Requirements

  • Regular standing and reaching.
  • Frequent sitting, walking, visual inspection, and handling of precision components.
  • Ability to lift:
    • Up to 25 pounds regularly
    • Up to 10 pounds frequently
    • Up to 50 pounds occasionally

Equal Opportunity Employer

B&B Manufacturing Co. is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex,