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First Article Inspector Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

5TH Axis Inc

QC Inspector III - 1st Shift

Del Mar, CA

$32 - $37/hr

You perform first article inspections on tight-tolerance machined components * You verify dimensions using precision inspection equipment and GD&T principles * You identify and disposition non ...

5TH Axis Inc

QC Inspector III - 1st Shift

San Diego, CA · On-site

$32 - $37/hr

You perform first article inspections on tight-tolerance machined components * You verify dimensions using precision inspection equipment and GD&T principles * You identify and disposition non ...

5TH AXIS INC

QC Inspector III - 1st Shift

San Diego, CA

$32 - $37/hr

You perform first article inspections on tight-tolerance machined components * You verify dimensions using precision inspection equipment and GD amp;T principles * You identify and disposition non ...

5TH Axis Inc

QC Inspector III - 1st Shift

El Cajon, CA

$32 - $37/hr

You perform first article inspections on tight-tolerance machined components * You verify dimensions using precision inspection equipment and GD&T principles * You identify and disposition non ...

Banks Power

Quality Inspector

Azusa, CA

Generate First Article Inspection Report (FAIR) * Support Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP) activities such as PPAP, control plans, and dimensional inspections * Support Engineering in ...

Dover Corporation

Quality Inspector

Ventura, CA

Complete First Article Inspections per AS9102 on supplied material. Maintain appropriate records of supplier documentation and inspections Interface with Supplier Quality, Procurement, Engineering ...

Verify

Mechanical Inspector

Carlsbad, CA

$30 - $35/hr

Conduct First Article Inspections (FAI) in accordance with AS9102 standards. * Review and verify documentation, including quality plans, inspection records, and supplier certifications. * Identify ...

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All JobsFirst Article Inspector JobsFirst Article Inspector Jobs in California

First Article Inspector information

See California salary details

$12

$26

$51

How much do first article inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for first article inspector in California is $27.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $31.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What type of inspectors make the most money?

Senior quality inspectors, such as those overseeing manufacturing or aerospace inspections, tend to earn higher salaries due to their experience and specialized skills. Inspectors with certifications like ASQ or ISO, and those working in high-demand industries, often have higher earning potential.

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

A First Article Inspector typically earns less than $10,000 per month, as this role usually pays between $3,000 and $6,000 monthly. High-paying jobs that can reach $10,000 a month without a degree include specialized sales, real estate brokers, or skilled trades like certain construction or electrical work, often requiring experience, certifications, or licenses rather than formal degrees.

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.

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.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

First Article Inspectors typically do not earn $2000 a day; such high daily rates are more common in specialized fields like high-level consulting, executive roles, or certain freelance professions. Most jobs paying this amount require extensive experience, advanced skills, or working in high-stakes industries such as finance, law, or executive management.
What are the most commonly searched types of First Article Inspector jobs in California? The most popular types of First Article Inspector jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to First Article Inspector jobs in California? For First Article Inspector jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching First Article Inspector jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for First Article Inspector jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for First Article Inspector jobs? Cities in California with the most First Article Inspector job openings:
First Article Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Article Inspector job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $56,159 per year, or $27 per hour.
QC Inspector III - 1st Shift

QC Inspector III - 1st Shift

5TH Axis Inc

San Diego, CA

$32 - $37/hr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Become the Standard of Quality at 5th Axis
At 5th Axis, we're global leaders in precision machining, automated production, and turnkey manufacturing solutions. From advanced workholding systems to zero-point technology-we design, build, and deliver it all. We don't just make products; we build the future of manufacturing.
Built for Inspectors Who Take Pride in Precision
This role is designed for experienced quality professionals who understand that precision manufacturing depends on disciplined inspection, tight tolerances, and an uncompromising attention to detail.
If you've built your career around dimensional accuracy, GD&T, inspection methodology, and supporting world-class manufacturing standards-this is your opportunity to join a high-performance team where quality matters.
Be the Final Line of Defense for Manufacturing Excellence
As our QC Inspector III, you'll play a critical role in ensuring parts, materials, and finished products meet the highest standards of quality and precision.
You'll work closely with machinists, programmers, engineers, and production leadership to perform first article, in-process, receiving, and final inspections while supporting production flow and maintaining compliance with quality standards.
What This Job Actually Looks Like
  • You perform first article inspections on tight-tolerance machined components
  • You verify dimensions using precision inspection equipment and GD&T principles
  • You identify and disposition non-conforming material before it impacts production
  • You support machinists and production teams by maintaining accurate inspection documentation
  • You run or verify CMM programs to ensure repeatable inspection accuracy
  • You help maintain production flow while protecting the integrity of the final product
What You'll Do Here
  • Perform first article, in-process, final, and receiving inspections
  • Interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and GD&T requirements
  • Utilize precision inspection equipment including calipers, micrometers, height gauges, pin gages, and bore gages
  • Verify parts meet tight tolerance and quality requirements
  • Create and maintain inspection documentation for the shop floor
  • Document and disposition non-conformance tags
  • Maintain accurate traveler and router documentation
  • Support production and manufacturing teams with inspection-related activities
  • Adhere to all company safety standards and quality procedures
  • Communicate professionally and effectively across departments
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives within the Quality department
  • Perform other duties as assigned
You Must Have
  • Minimum 5 years of experience as a QC Inspector in a manufacturing environment
  • Strong GD&T proficiency with tight-tolerance machining
  • Experience using standard QC inspection equipment
  • Strong understanding of dimensional inspection methods
  • Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills
  • Ability to multi-task and work effectively in a fast-paced environment
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to maintain accuracy under pressure
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience running CMM programs
  • PC-DMIS experience
  • Trigonometry proficiency
  • Prior machinist experience
  • Epicor ERP experience
What You'll Bring
  • High sense of urgency and accountability
  • Strong problem-solving mindset
  • Team-oriented attitude
  • Professional communication skills
  • Pride in precision and craftsmanship
  • Self-motivated work ethic
  • Commitment to quality and continuous improvement
Why You'll Love Working With Us
At 5th Axis, quality is not just a department-it's part of everything we do. You'll work alongside highly skilled manufacturing professionals using advanced equipment and modern machining technologies in a fast-paced, high-performance environment.
This is a place where your expertise matters, your attention to detail is valued, and your work directly impacts the success of our products and customers.
Ready to Help Define Quality at 5th Axis?
If you're an experienced QC Inspector ready to bring your inspection expertise to a company that values precision, urgency, and manufacturing excellence-we want to hear from you.
Apply today and help build what's next with 5th Axis.
5th Axis is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity, value unique perspectives, and believe everyone has the power to make an impact. If you need accommodations during the application or interview process, please contact us.
Pay Range: $32 - $37 per hour

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