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First Article Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

PRINCETON TOOL INC

First Article Inspector

Tampa, FL · On-site

$27.50 - $30/hr

The First Article Inspector is responsible for performing first article inspections, operating and programming CMMs, and ensuring the highest level of accuracy and precision in measuring complex ...

amphenol

First Article Inspector

Allen, TX

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

Amphenol

First Article Inspector

Allen, TX · On-site

$24 - $30/hr

... 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

$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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How much do first article inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 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.

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 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 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
Infographic showing various First Article Inspector job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 98% Full Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $56,905 per year, or $27.4 per hour.
First Article Inspector

First Article Inspector

PRINCETON TOOL INC

Tampa, FL • On-site

$27.50 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Description:

Princeton Precision Group: Always Advancing. Each business unit under the PPG portfolio has been deliberately selected for their ability to support their customers, lead their industry, and provide high quality products. Your journey with us is more than just a job. It is an opportunity to support the manufacturing of critical hardware to key defense programs, supporting missions to space and providing access for global travel. Join us in the journey!


We are actively seeking an experienced First Article Inspector to join and grow in the PPG organization. The First Article Inspector is responsible for performing first article inspections, operating and programming CMMs, and ensuring the highest level of accuracy and precision in measuring complex aerospace components. The ideal candidate will have expertise in operating and programming CMM equipment to inspect detailed components according to engineering specifications and standards.


Highlights and Benefits

  • Quarterly profit-sharing bonus; eligible upon hire
  • Paid time off
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid holidays
  • Tuition / professional development reimbursement
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Optional HSA with company contribution
  • Short-term disability, long term disability, and life insurance at no cost
  • Limitless opportunity for advancement
Requirements:
  • Conduct first article inspections (FAI) and first piece inspection to verify that newly manufactured parts meet customer specifications and regulatory requirements.
  • Prepare and execute CMM programs for first article inspection of complex aerospace and defense components.
  • Document and review inspection results, highlighting any non-conformances or deviations from specifications.
  • Collaborate with engineering and production teams to resolve any discrepancies or issues identified during the first article process.
  • Program and operate CMM machines (manual or automated) to perform measurements on a variety of aerospace and defense components, ensuring high accuracy and precision.
  • Develop and modify CMM programs for parts, assemblies, and tooling based on engineering drawings, CAD models, and part prints.
  • Utilize Calypso CMM software to write, optimize, and verify CMM inspection programs.
  • Perform routine maintenance and calibration on CMM equipment to ensure its functionality and precision.
  • Provide technical support to the quality assurance team during inspections and provide feedback to ensure continuous quality improvements.
  • Analyze inspection data and assist in the creation of quality reports, identifying trends or areas for improvement.
  • Review drawings, specifications, and work instructions to ensure compliance with customer and industry standards.
  • Work closely with engineering, production, and quality teams to resolve measurement-related issues.
  • Assist in the development and implementation of best practices and continuous improvement initiatives for the quality control process.
  • Train and mentor other team members in CMM operations and programming techniques.

Knowledge, skills, and abilities

  • High school diploma or equivalent; associate’s or bachelor’s degree in a technical field (e.g., Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Technology, or related discipline) preferred.
  • Minimum of 10 years of experience operating and programming CMMs in a manufacturing environment, with a focus on aerospace and defense applications.
  • Expert in CMM programming and operation using Calypso software
  • Strong knowledge of GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing), blueprints, and engineering drawings, specifically in the context of aerospace and defense standards.
  • Experience with first article inspection and understanding of industry standards such as AS9102 for aerospace FAI documentation.
  • Knowledge of materials, manufacturing processes, and inspection techniques used in the aerospace and defense industry.
  • Strong attention to detail with excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
  • Ability to work independently, manage priorities, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
  • Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, to effectively collaborate with team members and other departments.
  • Experience with robotic CMMs and automation systems.
  • Certification or formal training in CMM operation and programming.
  • Familiarity with ISO 9001, AS9100, or similar quality management systems.

Princeton Precision Group abides by applicable export control laws including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) in accordance with the company's export control procedures. Most positions require access to ITAR/EAR-controlled information. As such, persons considered for this position must be either a U.S. Citizen, Permanent Resident (green card holder) or otherwise classifiable as a “U.S. Person” under relevant regulations.