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First Article Inspection Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Motive Companies

Inspector

Fullerton, CA

$27 - $29/hr

Create first article inspection (FAI) use AS9102 form, detailed parts manufactured by us, assemblies and sub-assemblies and final deliverable units. Able to perform complex parts inspection use CMM ...

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 ...

Motive Companies

Inspector

Fullerton, CA

$27 - $29/hr

Create first article inspection (FAI) use AS9102 form, detailed parts manufactured by us, assemblies and sub-assemblies and final deliverable units. Able to perform complex parts inspection use CMM ...

JCSI

Senior SMT QC

San Jose, CA

$24 - $26/hr

Perform and review PCB/PCBA First Article Inspections * Verify SMT component setup, part changeovers, and assembly deviations * Review customer documentation, drawings, BOMs, ECOs, deviations, and ...

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JCSI

Senior SMT QC

San Jose, CA · On-site

$24 - $26/hr

Perform and review PCB/PCBA First Article Inspections * Verify SMT component setup, part changeovers, and assembly deviations * Review customer documentation, drawings, BOMs, ECOs, deviations, and ...

CCS INC

Quality Inspector

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$23 - $27/hr

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

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CCS INC

Technical Inspector

Anaheim, CA

$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 ...

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CCS INC

QC Inspector

Anaheim, CA

$23 - $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 ...

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Quality control Inspectors

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$35 - $40/day

Experience with First Article Inspection Reports (FAIRs), corrective actions and nonconformance reporting. * Proficiency using precision measuring instruments and inspection tools. * Strong shop math ...

Applied Medical

CNC Machinist

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA

$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 ...

Applied Medical

CNC Machinist

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA

$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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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 Jul 2, 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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,862 per year, or $20.1 per hour.
Inspector

Inspector

Motive Companies

Fullerton, CA

$27 - $29/hr

Contractor

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Position summary: Performs diversified inspection work.  Uses engineering drawings, process specifications, material certs, test report, and customer documents to check or verify purchased parts. Create first article inspection (FAI) use AS9102 form, detailed parts manufactured by us, assemblies and sub-assemblies and final deliverable units.  Able to perform complex parts inspection use CMM inspection equipment, and other standard inspection gauges. Must be able to interpret drawings. 
 
Create Non-conforming Report (NCR) to document nonconforming items. Daily scan quality certs   or documents into EPICOR system. Be able to train and become FAA ODA unit member.
 


 
Essential Functions:
  • Performs general inspection work in various basic areas and is capable of these required function:
    1. Receiving inspection
    2. Create first article Inspection (FAI) use AS9102 form, 
    3. In-process inspection (multiple product lines)
    4. Final and shipping inspection 
    5. Back-up Equipment/ tools management to ensure calibration is maintain
 
  • Takes direction from inspection lead for work assignments and obtains guidance on technical matters.
  • Familiar with all applicable inspection procedures and related work instructions and recommends improvements when applicable.
  • Measures parts to verify accuracy of dimensions, using standard and/or special CMM  measuring equipment.  Tests units for specification conformance using measuring test equipment as may be required by that specification.
  • Stamps or otherwise approves acceptable parts and prepares the necessary paperwork to document the results.
  • Through the Non-conforming Material Report (NCR), clearly and concisely describes the condition of unacceptable parts, determines responsibility for errors and initiates NCR as applicable for disposition.
  • Works from engineering drawings, process specifications, customer drawings, and test procedures.
  • Maintains all required inspection records as per procedures.
  • Performs other duties assigned.
  • Must be able to work at an ITAR facility.
 
Role Qualifications:
Skills, Abilities, and Other Requirements:
Good communication skills; both written and verbal.  Exposure to mechanical and or electrical inspection techniques, ability to use precision measuring equipment such as micrometer, calipers pin gauges, rulers, hardness tester, Romer Arm, CMM, levels, radius gages, etc.  
This is an ITAR facility and requires US Citizenship or permanent resident 
 
Education and Experience:
Two years performing inspection functions, e.g., machinist or technician. High school graduate or equivalent.
Experienced or trained in using General Dimensioning & Tolerancing. 
Experience working in calibration department.
 
 
Physical demands and work environment
  • Physical demands: While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to stand, walk, sit, use hands to finger, reach with arms and hands, climb stairs, stoop, kneel, crouch, talk or hear.  The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 35 lbs.
  • Work environment: While performing the duties of this job, the employee is exposed to weather conditions prevalent at the time and an air-conditioned and heated office.  The noise level is moderate.  The factory floor is in the same building as the office.
 $27-$29 per hour (DOE)

6:00 AM start time + OT (10hours M-F and 2 Saturdays per month)








Disclaimer: The above information on this description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performance this job classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required for this position.


Education:NoneEmployment Type: CONTRACTOR

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