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First Article Inspection Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Conduct first article inspection and generate first article inspection reports in compliance with SAE AS9102 (as required). * High-school diploma or GED plus three (3) years of on-the-job experience ...

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Mechanical Inspector

San Carlos, CA · On-site

$30 - $41/hr

Conduct first article inspection and generate first article inspection reports in compliance with SAE AS9102 (as required). Required * High-school diploma or GED plus three (3) years of on-the-job ...

New

Conduct first article inspection and generate first article inspection reports in compliance with SAE AS9102 (as required). Required * High-school diploma or GED plus three (3) years of on-the-job ...

Ensure supplier First Article Inspection Reports (FAIRs) completeness * Ensure completeness of CoC's and material certifications per drawing * Visual inspection of products * Basic Dimensional ...

Inspection plans KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: * Dimensional inspections on engineering samples as requested by QE's or PM's. * In-process production dimensional inspections when the Micro-Vu is required to ...

Quality Inspector

Boulder, CO · On-site

$24 - $40/hr

Ensure supplier First Article Inspection Reports (FAIRs) completeness * Ensure completeness of CoC's and material certifications per drawing * Visual inspection of products * Basic Dimensional ...

Experience in First Article Inspection (FAI utilizing AS9102 inspection forms) Proficient in using precision inspection equipment. Perform 100% inspection and load testing of springs. Ensure ...

Mechanical Inspector- 1st Shift

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$24 - $32/hr

Collect measurement data for use in First Article Inspection (FAI) reports * Collect and provide data required for critical part Final Inspection Reports (FIRs) Qualifications: * 0-2 years ...

Maintains product quality documentation by keeping accurate records and files; such as Material Certifications, First Article Inspection Reports (AS9102), Inspection Method Sheets (IMS), First Piece ...

Quality Control Manager

Havelock, NC · On-site

$60K - $68K/yr

Perform First Article Inspections in accordance with AS9102 * Complete AS9102 Forms 1, 2, and 3 (or customer-approved equivalents) * Verify materials, processes, and dimensional conformity * Re ...

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First Article Inspection information

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How much do first article inspection jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 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 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 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 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.

More about First Article Inspection jobs
What cities are hiring for First Article Inspection jobs? Cities with the most First Article Inspection job openings:
What states have the most First Article Inspection jobs? States with the most job openings for First Article Inspection jobs include:
What job categories do people searching First Article Inspection jobs look for? The top searched job categories for First Article Inspection jobs are:
Infographic showing various First Article Inspection job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 30% Full Time, 56% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 11% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $42,417 per year, or $20.4 per hour.
Quality Inspector FAI/Scanner (Aerospace/Defense Exp.)

Quality Inspector FAI/Scanner (Aerospace/Defense Exp.)

Integr8staff

Fullerton, CA

$30 - $38/hr

Other

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Job Title - Quality Inspector - (Fist Article Inspection/ Scanner)
MUST HAVE Aerospace/ Defense Manufacturing Exp.
Company Location -Fullerton, CA
On-site, Full Time
Contract-to-hire
Salary Range; $30-38/hr., DOE
First Shift
Job Summary of the Quality Inspector position

Integr8staff seeks a proven Quality Inspector to lead inspection and origination of First Article Inspection reports in the manufacturing process and to ensure customer requirements are met. The candidate also identifies and reports any defects and ensures the defects are corrected before the finalization of the first article inspection. This is a critical role in the manufacturing process. Only experienced candidates are required to apply.
Responsibilities of the Quality Inspector position
Carries out and coordinates all inspection and test requirements as outlined in the Quality Procedure Manual and contract requirements including compliance with the requirements of AS9100 and AS9102 standards.
Maintains relevant updated specification, standard and quality systems documents.
Inspects visually for defects.
Compares results with drawing and specification requirements.
Reports problems with inspection and test results to Quality Supervisor.
Identifies defective parts and segregates from acceptable product.
Notifies Quality Supervisor and Quality Engineer when inspection data exceeds acceptable limits or when major incidents of poor quality are noted.
Records results on inspection forms or charts and report number of defects found.
Supports the quality record retention requirements.
Experience with a 3D scanner or Faro Arm
Other duties as assigned.
Requirements of the Quality Inspector position
High School Degree or equivalent strongly preferred.
Minimum of three years successful employment as an individual contributor with a preference for aerospace manufacturing experience.
Experience in Quality Assurance standards is preferred.
Proficiency in GD&T. Ability to read blueprints.
1st Article experience, preferably more than a year.
Experience with AS9100 and AS9102 quality systems
Proficiency with different gages (e.g. calipers, pin gages, radius gages, snap gages, etc.)
Experience with GE, Middle River, and/or Collins preferred.
Microsoft Excel a must.
Updated resume is required for consideration. Only Local candidateswill be considered- Position does not offer relocation or visa sponsorship.