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First Article Inspection Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

A & R Engineering Co Inc

CMM Operator

Carson, CA · On-site

Be willing to learn and execute and validate AS9102 First Article using Net-Inspect Assist in creating AS9102 1st Article Inspection reports. Mechanical inspection background and ability to perform ...

Luran Incorporated

Be Seen First

Quality Control Inspector - Aerospace

Valencia, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Experience completing First Article Inspection (FAI) documentation. * Strong attention to detail with excellent organizational skills. * Basic computer, math, and analytical skills. * Strong written ...

Wilder Systems

Quality Engineer

South Gate, CA · On-site

$73K - $94K/yr

Support First Article Inspection (AS9102) activities. * Ensure manufacturing complies with engineering drawings and customer specifications. Corrective Action * Lead root cause investigations using ...

Eaton

CMM Quality Inspector- 2nd Shift

Irvine, CA · On-site

$29/hr

Possesses minimum of three years of experience in first article inspection reports per AS9102. * Possesses in-depth knowledge of acceptance test procedures (ATP), acceptance test reports (ATR), job ...

W3Global Inc.

Quality Control Manager

Santee, CA · On-site

$35 - $45/hr

Perform hands-on inspection of precision-machined aerospace components throughout the manufacturing process, including First Article, In-Process, and Final Inspections. * Interpret engineering ...

Light Composites, Inc.

Quality Inspector

Poway, CA · On-site

$23 - $28/hr

... first article timing to minimize wait times * ▶ Track inspection throughput and flag bottlenecks to the QC Supervisor * ▶ Communicate end-of-shift status -- what was inspected, what's on hold ...

CCS INC

Technical Inspector

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$22 - $27/hr

Experience with machined components in all phases of inspection, including receiving, first article, and final inspection. * 1 year of hands-on experience operating CMM equipment. * Proven experience ...

Applied Medical

CNC Machinist

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA · On-site

$22.25 - $30.25/hr

Perform First Article Inspection (FAI) using precision measuring instruments to ensure parts conform to blueprint requirements. * Apply basic machine shop math skills to perform calculations that ...

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First Article Inspection information

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$12

$20

$31

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.

2nd Shift Quality Inspector III

Howmet Aerospace

Torrance, CA • On-site

$26 - $36/hr

Full-time, Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago

Howmet Aerospace rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 161 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

48th of 72 rated aerospace companies

Job description

Howmet Fastening Systems (HFS) is seeking a 2nd Shift Quality Inspector III for our Torrance, CA location. HFS is a business unit of Howmet Aerospace, headquartered in Torrance, California.  We hold the number one global position in aerospace fastening systems, and we’re the North American leader in commercial transportation fasteners. Our high-tech, multi-material fastening systems are found nose to tail on aircraft and aerospace engines. Our products are also critical components of industrial gas turbines, automobiles, commercial transportation vehicles, and construction and industrial equipment.

General Summary:

Personnel are directly involved in the inspection of product in the in-process and final inspection areas. The incumbent will use precision inspection tools and equipment, manufacturing drawings (blueprints), and procedures/instructions in their activities to ensure acceptance of product to specifications and requirements. Incumbent must know and perform all other inspections including; MRB inspection, receiving inspection, and final inspection.

Specific Responsibilities:

  • Must be able to read and interpret work instructions, routers, blueprints, drawings and specifications

  • Prepare inspection documentation as required by work instructions 

  • Ability to create, update, and populate inspection reports that correlate to associated drawings

  • Must be able to communicate with multiple departments including Engineering, Manufacturing, Planning, etc.

  • Train new employees in inspection positions as required 

  • Perform Dimensional Inspection of all characteristics of manufactured products

  • Perform 1st Article inspection using appropriate drawings or specifications to verify part acceptability

  • Must be familiar with First Article requirements per AS9102

  • Evaluate MRB (Material Review Board) disposition for accuracy and acceptability 

  • Active involvement in process improvement initiatives, for example audit preparation, 5S, and Continuous Improvement

  • Comply with all safety policies, procedure, and practices. Report all unsafe activities to supervisor and/or Human Resources

  • Participate in proactive team effort to achieve departmental and company goals

  • Perform other duties as assigned

  • Routine duties are performed with minimal supervision

  • Prioritize and handle multiple tasks simultaneously


Basic Qualifications:

  • Minimum 3+ suggested years of total quality experience in manufacturing or relevant aerospace industry experience

  • Employee must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
  • This position entails access to export-controlled items and employment offers are conditioned upon an applicant’s ability to lawfully obtain access to such items.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Be familiar with First Article requirements per AS9102, AS9100
  • Understanding of Federal Aviation Administration requirements and impacts

Benefits/Salary:

The position includes competitive wages and a comprehensive benefits package available day one of hire, including health insurance (medical, dental, vision), excellent 401k matching program, paid holidays and vacation. Howmet Aerospace curates a strong working environment through opportunities for career progression, community engagement activities, and flexible schedules contingent upon role and location.  The salary range for this position is $26-36/hr.

What Howmet Aerospace employees say

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About Howmet Aerospace

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Howmet Aerospace Inc. (NYSE: HWM), headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a leading global provider of advanced engineered solutions for the aerospace and transportation industries. The Company's sales for 2021 approximated $5 billion. The Company's primary businesses focus on jet engine components, aerospace fastening systems, titanium structural parts and forged wheels. With nearly 1,150 granted and pending patents, the Company's differentiated technologies promote more fuel efficiency for aircraft and commercial transportation. Howmet is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Industry

Aviation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Pittsburgh, PA, US

Year founded

1888

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