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First Article Inspection Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Laborup

CMM Programmer & Quality Inspector

San Jose, CA · On-site

Support AS9102 First Article Inspection (FAI) requirements. * Inspect complex 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis machined components . * Perform dimensional inspections using CMM equipment and conventional ...

Laborup

CMM Programmer & Quality Inspector

San Jose, CA · On-site

Support AS9102 First Article Inspection (FAI) requirements. * Inspect complex 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis machined components . * Perform dimensional inspections using CMM equipment and conventional ...

NextDeavor Inc.

Quality Inspector 1

Simi Valley, CA

$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 ...

Kelly Services

Quality Inspector

Newark, CA

Support First Article Inspection validation and prepare AS9102-compliant inspection documentation. * Inspect production lots required for supplier qualification, including two consecutive defect-free ...

Wilder Systems

Quality Inspector

South Gate, CA · On-site

Support First Article Inspection (FAI) activities and AS9102 documentation. * Identify and document nonconforming product and communicate discrepancies to Quality and Manufacturing. * Verify ...

Belcan

CNC Machinist II - 2nd Shift

Valencia, CA

$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 ...

Ancra Aircraft

Mechanical Inspector

Azusa, CA · On-site

$25/hr

Essential Duties and Responsibilities Inspection and Verification * Perform receiving, in-process, first article, and final inspections of materials, components, assemblies, and finished products.

Astranis

Production Quality Engineer

San Francisco, CA

$84K - $109K/yr

Perform and support quality functions such as nonconformance resolution, first article inspection, root cause analysis, corrective actions, containments, statistical process control, etc.

Banks Power

Quality Inspector

Azusa, CA

Generate First Article Inspection Report (FAIR) * Support Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP) activities such as PPAP, control plans, and dimensional inspections * Support Engineering in ...

NextDeavor Inc.

Quality Inspector 1

Simi Valley, CA

$18.14 - $22.68/hr

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

Rubbercraft

QC Inspector III (1st Shift)

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$29 - $35/hr

Experience with AS9102 First Article Inspection preferred * Basic proficiency in Microsoft Office; ERP experience (e.g., Great Plains) is a plus * Strong attention to detail and ability to work in a ...

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All JobsFirst Article Inspection JobsFirst Article Inspection Jobs in California

First Article Inspection information

See California salary details

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How much do first article inspection jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 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.

CMM Programmer & Quality Inspector

Laborup

San Jose, CA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

We are seeking an experienced CMM Programmer / Quality Inspector to support a high-precision manufacturing operation in the San Jose area.

This position will be responsible for programming and operating CMM equipment, performing dimensional inspections, supporting first article inspections, and ensuring complex machined components meet engineering and customer requirements.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in precision manufacturing, hands-on CMM experience, and the ability to interpret complex drawings and GD&T requirements.

Shifts: 1st and 2nd shift

Compensation: Competitive, market-rate compensation based on experience and technical capabilities. Specific compensation will be discussed during the interview process.

Responsibilities:

  • Program, operate, validate, and optimize Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) inspection programs.
  • Utilize CMM software such as Calypso, CMM Manager, or similar platforms.
  • Develop inspection programs and measurement strategies from CAD models, engineering drawings, and GD&T requirements.
  • Perform first article, in-process, and final inspections of complex precision-machined components.
  • Support AS9102 First Article Inspection (FAI) requirements.
  • Inspect complex 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis machined components.
  • Perform dimensional inspections using CMM equipment and conventional measurement tools, including micrometers and calipers.

Requirements

  • 5+ years of experience programming and/or operating CMM equipment in a precision manufacturing environment.
  • Experience with Calypso, CMM Manager, or similar CMM software.
  • Experience with Zeiss, Mitutoyo, Wenzel, Hexagon, or similar CMM systems is preferred.
  • Strong understanding of GD&T (ASME Y14.5).
  • Ability to interpret complex engineering drawings, CAD models, tolerances, and customer specifications.
  • Experience performing first article, in-process, and final inspections.
  • Strong understanding of precision measurement and metrology principles.
  • Experience using CMMs and conventional inspection equipment.
  • Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills with the ability to identify and help resolve dimensional issues.

Benefits

  • Direct Hire
  • Health, Dental, and Vision
  • 401k
  • PTO