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First Article Inspector Jobs in Austin, TX (NOW HIRING)

Quality Manager

Austin, TX · On-site

$120K - $125K/yr

Oversee both internal and customer funded AS9100 First Article Inspection Reports. * Regulatory & Contract Review: Review, understand, and flow down Defense Prime Contractor quality notes, customer ...

Quality & Test Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$85 - $125/hr

Support supplier quality activities, including source inspections, supplier audits, and first article inspection reviews * Help develop and execute test programs for procured or fabricated items ...

New

Quality & Test Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$71K - $92K/yr

Support supplier quality activities, including source inspections, supplier audits, and first article inspection reviews * Help develop and execute test programs for procured or fabricated items ...

Senior Quality Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$83K - $113K/yr

Support APQP, PFMEA, Control Plans, Process Flow Diagrams, and First Article Inspections * Participate in Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and Design for Quality (DFQ) reviews * Validate supplier ...

Quality & Test Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$71K - $92K/yr

Support supplier quality activities, including source inspections, supplier audits, and first article inspection reviews * Help develop and execute test programs for procured or fabricated items ...

Quality & Test Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$71K - $92K/yr

Support supplier quality activities, including source inspections, supplier audits, and first article inspection reviews * Help develop and execute test programs for procured or fabricated items ...

Quality & Test Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$70 - $110/hr

Support supplier quality activities, including source inspections, supplier audits, and first article inspection reviews * Help develop and execute test programs for procured or fabricated items ...

Senior Quality Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$121.50 - $148.50/hr

Support APQP, PFMEA, Control Plans, Process Flow Diagrams, and First Article Inspections * Participate in Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and Design for Quality (DFQ) reviews * Validate supplier ...

Senior Quality Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$83K - $113K/yr

Support APQP, PFMEA, Control Plans, Process Flow Diagrams, and First Article Inspections * Participate in Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and Design for Quality (DFQ) reviews * Validate supplier ...

Quality Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Create incoming, first-article, in-process, and final inspection plans from drawings, specifications, CAD models, and BOMs. * Inspect and qualify high-risk machined parts, PCBAs, vacuum components ...

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Showing results 21-40

First Article Inspector information

See Austin, TX salary details

$12

$27

$51

How much do first article inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for first article inspector in Austin, TX is $27.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.37 and $31.20 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 the most commonly searched types of First Article Inspector jobs in Austin, TX?

The most popular types of First Article Inspector jobs in Austin, TX are:

What are popular job titles related to First Article Inspector jobs in Austin, TX?

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

What job categories do people searching First Article Inspector jobs in Austin, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for First Article Inspector jobs in Austin, TX are:

What cities near Austin, TX are hiring for First Article Inspector jobs?

Cities near Austin, TX with the most First Article Inspector job openings:

Infographic showing various First Article Inspector job openings in Austin, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,404 per year, or $27.1 per hour.

Quality Inspector 2 -2nd Shift

Collins Aerospace

San Marcos, TX

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Collins Aerospace rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 251 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

33rd of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Date Posted:

2026-07-15

Country:

United States of America

Location:

US-TX-SAN MARCOS-2005 ~ 2005 Technology Wy ~ TECHNOLOGY

Position Role Type:

Onsite

U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements:

U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are authorized to access information under this program/contract.

Security Clearance Type:

None/Not Required

Security Clearance Status:

Not Required

Joining Collins Aerospace isn’t just about finding a job; it’s about embarking on a journey to redefine the future of aerospace technology.

Collins Aerospace, an RTX company, is a leader in technologically advanced and intelligent solutions for the global aerospace and defense industry. Collins Aerospace has the capabilities, comprehensive portfolio, and expertise to solve customers’ toughest challenges and to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving global market. 

  • 2nd Shift: Monday – Friday 3PM-11:30PM

What You Will Do

  • Inspection of Ship Loose Kits and kitting of parts
  • Perform detailed product inspections on in process and finished goods, including but not limited to First Article Inspections.         
  • Document characteristics of products accurately and with technical detail.          
  • Initiate Quality Notifications for any non-conforming products.
  • Apply quality assurance procedures and requirements to the inspection of hardware and to document reviews.
  • Identify any potential quality issues early and help to prevent their occurrence.
  • Communicate effectively to other Collins Aerospace personnel any quality issues needing resolution.
  • Monitor and utilize calibrated measuring instruments.
  • Safely Preform other duties as assigned
  • Ability to work varying shifts, or overtime as required

Qualifications You Must Have

  • Typically requires HS diploma (or equivalent, e.g. G.E.D. in the US) or vocational/technical education in related discipline with a minimum of 1 year of relevant experience.
  • Experience performing manufacturing or product inspections using blueprints and specifications.
  • Experience performing measurements with precision measurement tools, such as micrometers and calipers.

Qualifications We Prefer

  • Basic math skills including addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, and percentages.
  • The ability to utilize computer systems including input of data and retrieval of information for inspections and configuration purposes.
  • The ability to review documents and to identify and resolve any errors or missing information.
  • Ability to use operating software including SAP
  • 2+ years in an Aerospace or similar inspection role

What We Offer

Some of our competitive benefits package includes:   

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance  
  • Paid time off after 121 days
  • Generous 401(k) plan that includes employer matching funds and separate employer retirement contribution, including a Lifetime Income Strategy option  
  • Tuition reimbursement program 
  • Student Loan Repayment Program  
  • Life insurance and disability coverage  
  • Optional coverages you can buy pet insurance, home and auto insurance, additional life and accident insurance, critical illness insurance, group legal, ID theft protection 
  • Birth, adoption, leave benefits 
  • Ovia Health, fertility, and family planning  
  • Adoption Assistance           
  • Autism Benefit  
  • Employee Assistance Plan, including up to 10 free counseling sessions  
  • Healthy You Incentives, wellness rewards program 
  • Doctor on Demand, virtual doctor visits  
  • Bright Horizons, child and elder care services 
  • Teladoc Medical Experts, second opinion program  
  • And more!

Learn More & Apply Now!

Our Advanced Structures team leverages advanced materials and additive manufacturing to develop complex interior and exterior solutions. These solutions ensure structural integrity of the aircraft, help aircraft take off and land, stay trim in the air, move forward, carry cargo and conduct rescues. We delight our customers with superior products and best-in-class service. Our global team is committed to continuous improvement – we work hard to make our solutions lighter-weight, stronger and more technically advanced, so that plane travel can be safer, more affordable and more sustainable in the years to come. We are looking for the best and brightest to fly and land with us!  

*Please ensure the role type (defined below) is appropriate for your needs before applying to this role.

Onsite: Employees who are working in Onsite roles will work primarily onsite. This includes all production and maintenance employees, as they are essential to the development of our products. 

Apply now and be part of the team that’s redefining aerospace, every day.

As part of our commitment to maintaining a secure hiring process, candidates may be asked to attend select steps of the interview process in-person at one of our office locations, regardless of whether the role is designated as on-site, hybrid or remote.

Hired applicants may be eligible for benefits, including but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, flexible work schedules, employee assistance program, Employee Scholar Program, parental leave, paid time off, and holidays. Specific benefits are dependent upon the specific business unit as well as whether or not the position is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement. Hired applicants may be eligible for annual short-term and/or long-term incentive compensation programs depending on the level of the position and whether or not it is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement. Payments under these annual programs are not guaranteed and are dependent upon a variety of factors including, but not limited to, individual performance, business unit performance, and/or the company’s performance. This role is a U.S.-based role. If the successful candidate resides in a U.S. territory, the appropriate pay structure and benefits will apply. RTX anticipates the application window closing approximately 40 days from the date the notice was posted. However, factors such as candidate flow and business necessity may require RTX to shorten or extend the application window.

RTX is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any other applicable state or federal protected class. RTX provides affirmative action in employment for qualified Individuals with a Disability and Protected Veterans in compliance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act.

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About Collins Aerospace

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Collins Aerospace, a Raytheon Technologies company, is a leader in technologically advanced and intelligent solutions for the global aerospace and defense industry. Collins Aerospace has the capabilities, comprehensive portfolio and expertise to solve customers' toughest challenges and to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving global market.

Industry

Aviation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlotte, NC, US

Year founded

2018