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First Article Inspector Jobs in Massachusetts (NOW HIRING)

QC Inspector

Southbridge, MA · On-site

$19 - $23.75/hr

Perform first article inspections (FAI) in accordance with applicable requirements. * Read and interpret blueprints, schematics, drawings, and specifications. * Verify product dimensions and ...

Perform first article inspections (FAI) in accordance with applicable requirements. * Read and interpret blueprints, schematics, drawings, and specifications. * Verify product dimensions and ...

Perform receiving, in-process, First Article Inspection (FAI), and final inspections * Verify product conformance to engineering drawings, specifications, and customer requirements * Record ...

Perform first article inspections and accurately document inspection results. * Conduct daily in-process quality inspections using established sampling procedures. * Complete final inspections to ...

Posted today

Perform first article inspections and accurately document inspection results. * Conduct daily in-process quality inspections using established sampling procedures. * Complete final inspections to ...

Posted today

Quality Inspector II EM

Westborough, MA · On-site

$23 - $25.75/hr

Perform a variety of inspections at various levels of assembly and manufacturing, including first article, in-process, and final inspections of complex electro-mechanical assemblies for conformance ...

Be Seen First

Create First Article Inspections (FAIs) and bubble drawings to accompany final shipments. * Conduct First Piece Inspections and assist operators with proper part inspection methods. * Inspect parts ...

QC Inspector

Chelsea, MA · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

When required, compile and/or review First Article Inspection Reports for wither incoming product or for product in Final Inspection. * When required, assist with document submissions, such as source ...

QC Inspector

Chelsea, MA · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

When required, compile and/or review First Article Inspection Reports for wither incoming product or for product in Final Inspection. * When required, assist with document submissions, such as source ...

Quality Inspector II EM

Westborough, MA · On-site

$23 - $25.75/hr

Strong knowledge of First Article Inspection process. * Good communication and writing skills. * Having and understanding of the inspector's role and relevance in meeting the company's quality policy ...

Mechanical Inspector

Peabody, MA · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Develop and implement part specific quality plans including first article inspection report and product audits * Leak Testing Skills: * Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ...

Perform receiving, in-process, final inspections, and First Article Inspections (FAIs) * Apply GD&T and metrology principles to verify product conformance * Create and utilize CMM programs from ...

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First Article Inspector information

See Massachusetts salary details

$13

$29

$56

How much do first article inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for first article inspector in Massachusetts is $29.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $34.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a first article inspector?

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 as a first article inspector?

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.

How to do a first article inspection?

A First Article Inspection (FAI) for a First Article Inspector involves thoroughly examining the initial produced part against engineering drawings and specifications, checking dimensions, materials, and workmanship. The inspector documents findings, compares measurements with tolerances, and verifies compliance before approving the part for production. Familiarity with inspection tools like calipers, gauges, and measurement software is essential, along with understanding quality standards such as AS9102 or ISO 9001.

What does a First Article Inspector do?

A First Article Inspector examines the initial production sample of a part or product to ensure it meets design specifications, quality standards, and customer requirements. They perform detailed inspections using measurement tools and document findings, often working closely with manufacturing and quality assurance teams to approve or reject the first article before full production begins.

What are popular job titles related to First Article Inspector jobs in Massachusetts?

For First Article Inspector jobs in Massachusetts, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching First Article Inspector jobs in Massachusetts look for?

The top searched job categories for First Article Inspector jobs in Massachusetts are:

Infographic showing various First Article Inspector job openings in Massachusetts as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,147 per year, or $29.9 per hour.

QC Inspector

Southbridge, MA • On-site

Element2 Group
Business Management Consulting • 1 - 10 employees

$19 - $23.75/hr

Other

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Position Summary

We are seeking a detail-oriented QC Inspector to join our Quality team supporting the production of complex assemblies and finished products for the Aviation, Defense, and Space industries.

The QC Inspector will be responsible for performing inspections throughout the manufacturing process and on completed products to ensure they meet established quality standards, specifications, drawings, and customer requirements. This position requires strong attention to detail and the ability to work with precision inspection equipment, microscopes, basic hand tools, and product testing equipment.

Key Responsibilities
  • Perform complex inspections of assemblies, components, and finished products.
  • Inspect products using microscopes and a variety of QC measuring and inspection tools.
  • Perform first article inspections (FAI) in accordance with applicable requirements.
  • Read and interpret blueprints, schematics, drawings, and specifications.
  • Verify product dimensions and workmanship using appropriate measuring equipment.
  • Perform basic bench testing of products and assemblies as required.
  • Review and maintain travelers, inspection records, process logs, and other quality documentation.
  • Identify, document, and communicate quality issues or nonconformances.
  • Ensure inspection results are accurately recorded and traceable.
  • Work closely with Manufacturing, Engineering, and Quality teams to resolve quality issues.
  • Follow established procedures, safety requirements, and quality standards.
  • Maintain a clean and organized inspection/work area.
Required Qualifications
  • Minimum 1 year of Quality Control/Quality Inspection experience.
  • Experience using basic QC measuring and inspection tools.
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints, schematics, and technical documentation.
  • Experience maintaining inspection records, travelers, and process logs.
  • Experience performing or assisting with first article inspections.
  • Basic hand-tool experience.
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to identify defects or discrepancies.
  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience performing microscope inspections.
  • Experience with bench testing or functional testing of assemblies.
  • Familiarity with first article inspection processes and documentation.
  • Experience working in a regulated manufacturing or quality environment.
Work Schedule

1st shift: 6:00AM - 2:30PM

2nd Shift: 2:00 PM – 10:30 PM

Screening Requirements
  • Pre-employment 5-panel drug screening, including THC.
  • Federal and state criminal background check covering the previous 7 years.
  • High school diploma or GED verification.
  • U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Resident status required.