1

First Article Inspector Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Quality Inspector

Pflugerville, TX · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Conduct First Article / First Part Inspections with 100% dimensional verification * Perform In‑Process Inspections per sampling plans and report out‑of‑tolerance conditions * Complete Final ...

Be Seen First

... for First Article Inspection while part is in process and upon completion Complete AS9102 (First Article Report) Organize and verify calibration of tools and measuring instruments Basic Skills ...

Be Seen First

... for First Article Inspection while part is in process and upon completion Complete AS9102 (First Article Report) Organize and verify calibration of tools and measuring instruments Basic Skills ...

Incoming Mechanical Inspector

Plano, TX · On-site

$24.25 - $32/hr

Review incoming documentation, including Certificates of Compliance (CoC), Reports, First Article Inspection (FAI) reports and Packing Lists again Purchase Orders. * Non-Conforming Material: Identify ...

New

Incoming Mechanical Inspector

Plano, TX · On-site

$24.25 - $32/hr

Review incoming documentation, including Certificates of Compliance (CoC), Reports, First Article Inspection (FAI) reports and Packing Lists again Purchase Orders. * Non-Conforming Material: Identify ...

Verify first article inspections (FAI) and in-process checks as required * Perform hydrostatic and pneumatic pressure tests as required * Perform DFT testing of industrial coatings to ensure ...

Verify first article inspections (FAI) and in-process checks as required * Perform hydrostatic and pneumatic pressure tests as required * Perform DFT testing of industrial coatings to ensure ...

Lead and coordinate receiving, in-process, first article, and final inspections. * Assign work, provide technical guidance, and support QC Inspectors. * Perform dimensional inspections using calipers ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

First Article Inspector information

See Texas salary details

$11

$25

$48

How much do first article inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for first article inspector in Texas is $25.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.26 and $29.33 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of First Article Inspector jobs in Texas? The most popular types of First Article Inspector jobs in Texas are:
What are popular job titles related to First Article Inspector jobs in Texas? For First Article Inspector jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Texas are hiring for First Article Inspector jobs? Cities in Texas with the most First Article Inspector job openings:
Quality Engineer - AS9102 First Article Inspection

Quality Engineer - AS9102 First Article Inspection

Verify

Irving, TX • On-site

$30 - $45/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Overview

Industry: Aerospace/Defense

Job Title: Quality Engineer - AS9102 First Article Inspection

Location: Irving, TX

Department: FAI Engineering

Reports To: FAI Operations Manager

Frequency: 40 hrs/week.  Full-time - Monday thru Friday 8 Am - 5PM. Should be open to overtime as needed with notice.

Duration: On-going

Pay rate $30.00 - $45.00 DOE

About Verify, Inc.: 

At Verify, Inc., we are leaders in quality and supplier performance management for the aerospace, defense, and high-tech industries. With a commitment to excellence, we partner with some of the world's most renowned companies to ensure their supply chains meet the highest standards of quality and precision. Our team of experts plays a vital role in driving innovation and reliability, working on impactful projects that shape the future of technology and aerospace. Join Verify, Inc. and be part of a collaborative environment where your skills make a difference every day!

Job Overview:

We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Quality Engineer to join our team and play a crucial role in reviewing and approving AS9102-compliant First Article Inspections (FAIs) for aerospace and defense customers. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in the aerospace & defense industry, specifically with creating, approving, and validating First Article Inspections. This role demands an individual with a deep understanding of manufacturing processes across a wide range of commodities, a commitment to quality, and the ability to work collaboratively with customers, suppliers and internal teams to ensure compliance with industry standards.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Review, approve, and audit First Article Inspection reports (FAIs) in accordance with AS9102 standards.
  • Review drawings, certificates, characteristic results, specifications, documentation and certification for all FAIs, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
  • Validate compliance with customer specifications, purchase orders, certifications,
  • Approved Products Lists (APLs), Qualified Products Lists (QPLs), and Approved Supplier Lists (ASLs).
  • Determine end-to-end traceability between customer technical data package and supplier provided objective evidence
  • Work closely with internal teams, suppliers, and customer teams to resolve FAI discrepancies and non-conformance issues.
  • Provide technical support, assistance and guidance on First Article Inspection processes to both internal teammates and suppliers.
  • Collaborate with customer supply chain management teams to ensure timely and accurate submission of FAIs from suppliers.
  • Review and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and manufacturing data to assess the suitability and completeness of FAIs.
  • Assist in process improvements and implement best practices for FAI procedures within the quality assurance framework.
  • Maintain up-to-date knowledge of industry standards, regulations, and best practices related to AS9102 and aerospace & defense manufacturing
  • Provide guidance and mentoring to less experienced team members and support continuous improvement initiatives.

 Required Qualifications:

  • 10+ recent years of experience in the aerospace and defense industry, with at least 5 years of primary focus creating, reviewing, or approving First Article Inspections (FAIs).
  • Extensive hands-on manufacturing experience across multiple commodities, such as:
    • Composites
    • Circuit board assemblies
    • Machined parts
    • Sheet metal
    • Structural assemblies
    • Hydraulics and pneumatics
    • Avionics
    • Raw materials
  • Demonstrated attention to detail and the ability to spot discrepancies in documentation, specifications, and manufacturing processes.
  • A working understanding of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (ASME/ASQ Y14.5)
  • In-depth knowledge of purchase orders, certifications, APLs, QPLs, and ASLs.
  • Demonstrated experience interpreting industry specifications (ASME, ASTM, SAE, etc.).
  • Strong ability to interpret complex engineering drawings, technical data, and specifications.
  • Excellent written and oral communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with the customer and their suppliers.
  • Knowledge of industry standards such as AS9102, AS9100, and other relevant aerospace & defense standards.
  • Demonstrated computer literacy.
  •  

Additional Qualifications considered a plus:

  • Currently holds or has held auditor certifications.
  • Experience with ERP systems and quality management software.
  • Familiarity with root cause analysis and corrective/preventive actions (CAPA).
  • Previous experience in audit processes and supporting external audits.
  • CMM Programming/Operator Experience.
  • Experience with web-based applications, multi-factor authentication, virtual desktop environments, and VPN.

Job Requirements:

  • Ability to work in an office environment 40 hrs. per week, occasionally more.
  • Occasional travel to supplier sites or manufacturing facilities may be required.

Why Join Us?

  • Competitive salary and benefits package.
  • Industry Leader: Be part of a company trusted by global aerospace and defense organizations, collaborative team environment where your contributions directly impact the company's success.
  • Collaborative Culture: Join a team that values expertise, integrity, and teamwork.
  • If you meet the qualifications above and are passionate about ensuring the highest standards of quality and compliance in the aerospace & defense industry, we encourage you to apply today!

"We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, political affiliation, marital status, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.  Verify, Inc. will not tolerate discrimination or harassment based on any of these characteristics."

Employment Type: PART_TIME