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First Article Inspection Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Koch Industries

First Article Inspector

Phillips, WI · On-site

Complete first article inspection per customer specifications and maintain appropriate records * Responsible for measuring parts and reporting any findings to engineering for submission to customer ...

Consolidated Machine & Tool

First Article Inspector

NJ · On-site

$20 - $40/hr

Preparing and maintaining inspection records and technical data packages * Supporting first article inspections (AS9102) and customer documentation requirements * Identifying and documenting ...

Torrey Holistics

NY · On-site

Produce AS9102 First Article Inspection Reports using DISCUS/Net-Inspect; manage documentation and submissions via customer portals. * Verify materials and process certifications against drawings ...

New

RTCA

Quality Inspector - First Article Inspector

Fife, WA · On-site

$25 - $32/hr

Utilize inspection equipment including micrometers, calipers, bore gauges, height gauges, surface ... Support or perform First Article Inspection (FAI) activities and AS9102 documentation. * Identify ...

Outform

First Article Intake (FAI) Specialist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18.25 - $24.50/hr

Complete first article inspections and approvals within 24 hours of sample receipt * Track and manage Idle Press Time Rate * Track and manage FAI Approval Rate * High school diploma or equivalent;

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First Article Inspection information

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$32

How much do first article inspection jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 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 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 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 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.

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What states have the most First Article Inspection jobs?

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What job categories do people searching First Article Inspection jobs look for?

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First Article Inspection jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Article Inspection job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Part Time, and 50% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,417 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

AS9102 First Article Inspection Supplier Quality Inspector

Miami, FL • On-site

SQA Services
Business Management Consulting • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about SQA Servicesexternal

$30 - $34/hr

Full-time, Contractor

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

For almost 30 years, SQA Services has been a premier leader in the provision of managed supplier quality services for audits, assessments, remote surveillance assessments, corrective actions, remediation, inspections, and engineering to manufacturers within all industries. We deliver services by deploying associates who are located throughout the United States and in 90+ countries around the world to your supplier sites. Our associates are expert quality assurance professionals with broad experience and local knowledge who can represent our clients on-demand and on-site faster than our competitors.
We're actively seeking a AS9102 First Article Inspection Supplier Quality Inspector for an immediate opening in Miami, FL. This is a an up to 6-month contract position with potential for extension. The role is full-time, Monday through Friday.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Conduct visual, physical, and dimensional inspections (both in-process and final) of machined parts, per project specifications and requirements
  • Perform incoming inspections from external providers of products and services
  • Conduct in-process and final inspections of critical features, including witness inspections
  • Compile final inspection sign-off sheets and inspection packages
  • Verify that inspection equipment is capable of detecting defects and ensure inspection methodology is in line with drawing intent
  • Review and validate the justification for parts not inspected at final inspection
  • Audit and validate the execution of inspection plans as applicable
  • Document non-conformances using approved methods and submit non-conformance reports for customer disposition
  • Work within the Quality Management system and undergo basic training on policies and procedures
  • Document inspection results in our record retention system

Qualifications:
  • Previous mechanical inspection experience
  • Experience with AS9102 (FAI)
  • Experience with Certification of Conformance
  • Knowledge of GD&T and inspection methodologies
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to follow inspection plans and protocols
  • Experience with the use of precision measurement tools and equipment
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints and/or engineering drawings
  • Ability to work effectively within a quality management system

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Certified or previously certified in GD&T ASME Y-14.5
  • Diploma or GED from an accredited high school or technical school; college degree in engineering
  • Knowledge of mechanical contract manufacturing and LEAN manufacturing
  • 5 years of experience in Manufactuing industry, with 2 years as a Mechanical Inspector

$30 - $34 an hour
SQA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment is based on merit and qualifications, and is not influenced by race, color, religion, gender, national origin, veteran status, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, or any other legally protected status.
Must be ITAR compliant and undergo a background check.
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We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.

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