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First Article Inspector Jobs in Pennsylvania (NOW HIRING)

Quality Control Inspector - Level III Summary The Level III Inspector is responsible for performing complex first article, in-process, and final inspections to ensure that precision machined ...

Quality Inspector

Erie, PA · On-site

$16/hr

Conduct first article, in-process, and final inspections to maintain production quality. * Candidate will visually inspect approximately 800 parts per hour. * Use of precision measuring devices to ...

Completes AS9102 first article inspection reports from CMM results into Net Inspect. * Works with all departments to improve quality of products. * Assists production in the translation of results.

Completes AS9102 first article inspection reports from CMM results into Net Inspect. * Works with all departments to improve quality of products. * Assists production in the translation of results.

Inspector

Blairsville, PA · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Perform and document in-process, first article, receiving and final inspections on aircraft parts and processes * Read and interpret information from planning documents, tool design, blue prints ...

Completes AS9102 first article inspection reports from CMM results into Net Inspect. * Works with all departments to improve quality of products. * Assists production in the translation of results.

Senior Quality Engineer

Warrington, PA

$86K - $117K/yr

This role requires a seasoned professional with demonstrated experience in source inspection, First Article Inspection (AS9102), process and Quality Management System (QMS) audits, as well as ...

Senior Quality Engineer

Warrington, PA · On-site

$86K - $117K/yr

This role requires a seasoned professional with demonstrated experience in source inspection, First Article Inspection (AS9102), process and Quality Management System (QMS) audits, as well as ...

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First Article Inspector information

See Pennsylvania salary details

$12

$27

$52

How much do first article inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for first article inspector in Pennsylvania is $27.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.56 and $31.59 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 Pennsylvania?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various First Article Inspector job openings in Pennsylvania as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,041 per year, or $27.4 per hour.

QUALITY INSPECTOR III

E F Precision LLC

Willow Grove, PA • On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Quality Control Inspector – Level III

Summary
The Level III Inspector is responsible for performing complex first article, in-process, and final inspections to ensure that precision machined components, assemblies, and products meet all customer and company quality standards. Work involves inspection of diversified, tight-tolerance parts for industries such as aerospace, medical, defense, and semiconductor manufacturing. Responsibilities may also include supplier audits and qualification activities.

This position requires extensive hands-on experience with precision machining processes, engineering drawings/blueprints, and Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T). The Level III Inspector develops inspection procedures, designs specialized gauging or measurement setups, and uses a range of precision and electronic measuring instruments. The role also includes programming and setup of Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMMs) and OGP vision systems, as well as training other inspectors in their use.


Primary Responsibilities
  1. Verify that precision machined parts and assemblies meet all customer and internal specifications for quality and conformance.

  2. Accurately document all inspections and verifications through signatures, stamps, or electronic records.

  3. Review and confirm the completeness and accuracy of supplier certifications.

  4. Lead quality initiatives for assigned customers and support general quality efforts across all programs.

  5. Mentor and train Level I and Level II inspectors on inspection techniques, control plans, and FAI (First Article Inspection) reporting.

  6. Serve as the primary trainer for CMM and OGP vision system programming and operation.

  7. Promote and maintain a safe, organized, and 5S-compliant work environment.

  8. Support workload management within the inspection area to ensure efficiency and accuracy.

  9. Perform additional duties as directed by management.


Knowledge and Skill Requirements
  • Extensive experience inspecting precision machined components and tight-tolerance mechanical parts.

  • Thorough understanding of engineering drawings, blueprints, and GD&T, with the ability to interpret and train others in these standards.

  • Strong knowledge of both English and Metric measurement systems.

  • Proficiency with statistical tools and variance analysis.

  • Skilled in the use of precision measuring instruments and electronic devices (micrometers, height gages, surface plates, comparators, CMMs, OGP systems, etc.).

  • Ability to interpret customer specifications, national standards, and technical documentation.

  • Strong communication, mentoring, and collaboration skills with the ability to work effectively with employees, management, and customers.


Physical Requirements
  • Annual eye examination and one-time Ishihara (Color Blindness) Test required from an accredited eye care professional.


Working Conditions
  • Standard manufacturing and inspection environment.

  • May require light lifting, standing, walking, and sitting for extended periods.

  • Occasional local travel and weekend work may be required


Employer Benefits:

  • Medical, dental, and vision plans
  • Spending accounts: Pre-Taxed Flexible Spending Account and HSA – Health Savings Account
  • 401 (k) Retirement Savings with matching contributions, Paid Sick/Personal, Vacation, Holiday time
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Group life insurance
  • Long-term disability coverage
  • Short-term disability coverage
  • PSECU Credit Union
  • Other coverages, services, and discounts are available through our PEO including:
    • Mobile app
    • Identity theft coverage
    • Learning
    • Real Estate & Financial Services
    • Discounts on a variety of things such as auto buying, magazine, movie tickets, theme parks etc.