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First Article Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

amphenol

First Article Inspector

Allen, TX · On-site

... First Article Inspection assemblies that are contractually required. • Read and interpret customer contractual requirements as it defines AS9102 FAI verification. • Inspects and verifies fiber ...

Motive Companies

First Article Inspectors

Carson, CA · On-site

$38 - $48/hr

First Article Inspector Would you like to elevate aerospace manufacturing through smarter, data-driven quality systems giving you the opportunity to make a direct, measurable impact on mission ...

Motive Companies

First Article Inspectors

Carson, CA

$38 - $48/hr

First Article Inspector Would you like to elevate aerospace manufacturing through smarter, data-driven quality systems giving you the opportunity to make a direct, measurable impact on mission ...

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First Article Inspector information

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How much do first article inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for first article inspector in the United States is $27.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $31.49 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is QC inspection a good career?

A First Article Inspector role involves evaluating initial product samples to ensure quality standards are met, often requiring attention to detail and knowledge of inspection tools. It can be a stable career with opportunities for advancement, especially with certifications like ASQ CQI, and is valued in manufacturing and production environments.

What type of inspectors make the most money?

Senior inspectors such as quality control managers, aerospace inspectors, or specialized industrial inspectors tend to earn the highest salaries. These roles often require advanced certifications, extensive experience, and expertise in specific industries or tools, which contribute to higher compensation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the First Article Inspector position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a First Article Inspector, you need a solid background in quality control, blueprint reading, and measurement techniques, often supplemented by experience in manufacturing or aerospace industries. Familiarity with tools like calipers, micrometers, CMMs (Coordinate Measuring Machines), and quality management systems such as AS9102 or ISO 9001 is typically required. Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication skills help you excel in reporting and collaborating with cross-functional teams. These abilities ensure that initial production samples meet stringent specifications and support ongoing process improvements.

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, document findings, and may use measurement tools or inspection software as part of their quality control process.

How much do SpaceX quality inspector make?

First Article Inspectors at SpaceX typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience and location. The role involves inspecting parts and assemblies, often requiring knowledge of quality standards and inspection tools. Salaries can vary based on certifications and the complexity of the projects.

What is a First Article Inspector job?

A First Article Inspector is responsible for verifying the initial production run of a manufactured part to ensure it meets design specifications, engineering drawings, and quality standards. They perform detailed inspections using precision measuring tools and document results in reports like First Article Inspection Reports (FAIR). This role is critical in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and medical manufacturing, where compliance with strict quality requirements is essential. By identifying defects early, First Article Inspectors help prevent costly production errors and ensure consistency in manufacturing processes.

What are the typical challenges faced by First Article Inspectors, and how can they overcome them?

First Article Inspectors often encounter challenges such as interpreting complex engineering drawings, adapting to evolving quality standards, and working under tight production schedules. Success in this role depends on keen problem-solving abilities and a proactive approach to communicating discrepancies to engineering and production teams. Continual learning—such as staying current on industry standards and embracing new inspection technologies—helps inspectors remain effective. Being detail-oriented and thorough also minimizes rework, ensuring products meet client and regulatory requirements from the outset.

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First Article Inspector jobs near you

First Article Inspector

PTR Tool and Plastics

Meadville, PA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Job Title: First Article Inspector

Department: Quality

Reports to: Quality Manager


Summary

Responsible for assuring the First Article Inspections are completed on-time and are producing desired results according to customer specified requirements and customer provided drawings. Responsible for assembling PPAP packages.

Relationships: Please see PTR's Organizational Chart included in you new hire paperwork for specific relationships.

Authority: This individual has authority over no other employee but may ask others within their department to help them with tasks. Please see PTR's organizational chart for more detailed information.

Essential Functions:

  • Provide technical and process support to engineering, manufacturing, sales and purchasing groups.
  • First Article Inspection of plastic components.
  • Creation of reports from First Article Inspection according to customer specific requirements.
  • Operation and/or programming of CMM equipment ( Hexagon Measuring Machine; PC DMIS Software).
  • Annual validations of all production parts according to Customer Specific requirements.
  • Assist with corrective and preventive actions.
  • Hands on interaction with manufacturing process control activities.
  • Assist in creating and revising controlled forms.
  • Assist with the measurements of in-process critical dimensions.
  • PPAP package preparation
  • Other duties as assigned by Quality Manager.
  • Arriving at work on time for every scheduled shift.
  • Maintain a clean and safe work area at all times

** other projects and responsibilities may be added at the company's discretion.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • 1 year of metrology experience or equivalent
  • Ability to interpret part drawings and tolerances.
  • Knowledge and use of Various inspection tools such as micrometers and calipers
  • Some knowledge of ISO or IAFT 16949
  • PPAP knwledge
  • Knowledge of SPC and calibration systems
  • Plastic Mold Injection industry and testing experience desirable
  • Knowledge of PC DMIS Software.
  • Detail oriented.
  • Must be able to work independently; some decision makin skills may be required
  • PC Skilss (MS Office suite- word, excel, ect.)