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First Article Inspection Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CMI Group

First Article Inspector

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

Minimum 5 years Aerospace experience with First Article/First Piece Inspection * Strong Hexagon operational CMM experience required * Experience with dial bore gages, Mueller gages, indicator mics ...

Amphenol

First Article Inspector

Allen, TX · On-site

$24 - $30/hr

... inspection activities for First Article Inspection assemblies that are contractually required. • Read and interpret customer contractual requirements as it defines AS9102 FAI verification. • ...

Fathom Mfg

Quality Inspector

Denver, CO · On-site

$24 - $26/hr

Previous quality inspection experience in a manufacturing environment required. * Experience with First Article Inspections is required. * Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings.

Kilgore Machine Co., Inc.

Be Seen First

Quality Inspector / Aerospace Machine Shop

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$35 - $40/hr

Knowledge of FAIR (First Article Inspection Reports), NET Inspect, and PPAP. Company Description Precision machine shop, aerospace CNC lathes and mills

FLAG Solutions LLC

Quality Inspector

North Hollywood, CA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Review and approve AS9102 First Article Inspection forms and other validation documentation. * Interpret inspection data and determine whether parts meet customer and internal quality standards.

New

FLAG Solutions LLC

Quality Inspector

North Hollywood, CA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Review and approve AS9102 First Article Inspection forms and other validation documentation. * Interpret inspection data and determine whether parts meet customer and internal quality standards.

New

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First Article Inspection information

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How much do first article inspection jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for first article inspection in the United States is $20.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $23.08 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 jobs pay 2000 a day?

First Article Inspection roles typically do not pay $2000 a day; such high daily rates are more common in specialized consulting, executive-level positions, or freelance work in fields like finance, law, or high-level project management. These roles often require extensive experience, certifications, or unique expertise. Most standard inspection or quality assurance jobs pay hourly or salaried wages below this level.

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 kind of inspectors make the most money?

In the field of First Article Inspection, inspectors with advanced certifications, specialized technical skills, and extensive experience tend to earn higher salaries. Senior inspectors or those working in high-demand industries such as aerospace or automotive manufacturing often make the most money, especially if they hold certifications like ASQ Certified Quality Inspector or ASQ Certified Quality Engineer. Additionally, inspectors who take on supervisory roles or work in regions with a high cost of living typically earn higher wages.

What does a first article inspector do?

A first article inspector reviews and verifies the initial production sample of a part or product to ensure it meets design specifications, quality standards, and customer requirements. They perform detailed inspections using measurement tools and document findings, often working closely with manufacturing and quality assurance teams to approve or reject the sample before full production begins.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

First Article Inspection is a quality control role in manufacturing that typically does not pay $10,000 a month unless combined with managerial responsibilities or specialized skills. Most high-paying jobs without a degree in this range are in sales, real estate, or entrepreneurship, where success depends on experience, performance, and networking rather than formal education.

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.
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First Article Inspection jobs near you
Machine Shop First Article Inspector

Machine Shop First Article Inspector

Applied Medical

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA • On-site

$19/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

Applied Medical rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Applied Medical is a new generation medical device company with a proven business model and commitment to innovation fueled by rapid business growth and expansion. Our company has been developing and manufacturing advanced surgical technologies for over 35 years and has earned a strong reputation for excellence in the healthcare field. Our unique business model, combined with our dedication to delivering the highest quality products, enables team members to contribute in a larger capacity than is possible in typical positions.
Position Description
Position Overview
The Machine Shop First Article Inspector supports Applied Medical's engineering and machining operations by verifying that components, tooling, and fixtures meet defined dimensional and quality requirements prior to production release. This role plays a critical part in ensuring manufacturing readiness, regulatory compliance, and product quality by performing first article inspections in accordance with quality system regulations. The first article inspector works closely with engineering, machining, and quality teams to validate design intent and communicate inspection results clearly.
Key Responsibilities
  • Inspect components, tooling, and fixtures using coordinate measuring machines (CMM), gauges, calipers, comparators, and other precision measuring tools to verify conformance to engineering drawings and specifications.
  • Interpret blueprint dimensions, tolerances, and inspection requirements to determine appropriate inspection methods.
  • Generate clear and accurate inspection reports documenting results, methods used, and any nonconformances identified.
  • Communicate inspection results and findings with engineering, machining, and quality teams to support design validation and process readiness.
  • Perform first article inspections within defined time frames while maintaining accuracy and documentation quality.
  • Comply with quality system regulations, International Organization for Standardization standards, standard operating procedures, work rules, and safety guidelines.
  • Maintain effective written communication through emails, reports, and memorandums related to inspection activities.

Success in This Role Looks Like
  • Delivering accurate and timely first article inspection results that support engineering validation and production release.
  • Ensuring inspection methods are appropriate, repeatable, and clearly documented.
  • Maintaining strong collaboration with engineering and machining teams to resolve dimensional or specification issues.
  • Demonstrating attention to detail when verifying tight tolerance features and complex geometries.
  • Supporting a compliant, efficient, and quality focused manufacturing environment.

Position Requirements
This position requires the following skills and attributes:
  • Demonstrated experience performing dimensional inspections in a manufacturing or machine shop environment.
  • One year or more of work experience related to inspection or quality control activities.
  • Proven ability to interpret blueprint dimensions and tolerance requirements.
  • Experience holding and verifying tolerances up to .0001".
  • Familiarity with precision measuring instruments including micrometers, calipers, gage pins, comparators, and indicators.
  • Working knowledge of machining instructions, quality system regulations, International Organization for Standardization standards, standard operating procedures, work rules, and safety guidelines.
  • Ability to read, write, and speak in English for effective communication and documentation.
  • Ability to lift fifty pounds on occasion.
  • Strong interpersonal skills and a technical, hands-on approach to inspection activities.

Preferred
The following skills and attributes are preferred:
  • One or more years of experience performing first article inspections in a manufacturing environment.
  • Experience using coordinate measuring machine equipment.
  • Background in medical device manufacturing or other regulated manufacturing environments.
  • Knowledge of mold making or tool and die processes.

Benefits
Benefits
  • Competitive compensation range: $19 - $30 / hour (California).
  • Comprehensive benefits package.
  • Training and mentorship opportunities.
  • On-campus wellness activities.
  • Education reimbursement program.
  • 401(k) program with discretionary employer match.
  • Generous vacation accrual and paid holiday schedule.

Please note that the compensation range may be adjusted in the future, and bonus and incentive compensation plans may apply.
Our total reward package reflects our commitment to employee growth and well-being, as we invest in your development and offer a range of benefits designed to enhance your career and life.
All compensation and benefits are subject to plan documents and written agreements.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Applied Medical is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), or sexual orientation, or any other status protected by federal, state or local laws in the locations where Applied Medical operates.

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