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First Article Inspector Jobs in Denver, CO (NOW HIRING)

Perform and fill out AS9102 First Article Inspections and Inspection Reports * Compile and confirm the accuracy of customer required shipment paperwork * Understand and follow internal inspection ...

Perform and fill out AS9102 First Article Inspections and Inspection Reports * Compile and confirm the accuracy of customer required shipment paperwork * Understand and follow internal inspection ...

Quality Inspector

Lakewood, CO · On-site

$65 - $90/hr

Perform and fill out AS9102 First Article Inspections and Inspection Reports * Compile and confirm the accuracy of customer required shipment paperwork * Understand and follow internal inspection ...

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Essential Job Function : · Demonstrate the ability to accurately complete AS9102 First Article Inspection (FAI) Reports in accordance with industry standards. · Perform detailed final inspections ...

Perform First Article Inspection (FAI), In-Process Inspection, and Final Inspection in accordance with customer and quality requirements. * Analyze inspection results and prepare accurate inspection ...

Support first article inspections (FAI), lot acceptance, and supplier receiving inspection * Partner with manufacturing, engineering, and supply chain to resolve quality issues and prevent recurrence

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First Article Inspector information

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$12

$28

$53

How much do first article inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for first article inspector in Denver, CO is $28.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.04 and $32.40 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 Denver, CO?

The most popular types of First Article Inspector jobs in Denver, CO are:

What job categories do people searching First Article Inspector jobs in Denver, CO look for?

The top searched job categories for First Article Inspector jobs in Denver, CO are:

Infographic showing various First Article Inspector job openings in Denver, CO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,571 per year, or $28.2 per hour.

Quality Inspector

Primus Aerospace

Lakewood, CO • On-site

$20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Primus Aerospace is a leading manufacturing partner to aerospace, defense & space OEMs / Primes & Tier I suppliers. The company specializes in producing high-tolerance, complex geometry parts; machined out of standard and exotic metals. Primus works directly with all major aerospace manufacturers (e.g., Boeing, Lockheed, Northrop) to provide components to mission critical civilian and defense programs.


Job Purpose:

The Quality Inspector performs inspections of product against customer requirements and according to internal procedures while maintaining the timely flow of product and minimizing escapes and other non-conforming materials.


Quality Inspector Key Responsibilities and Accountabilities:

  • Perform First Piece, Lot and Final Inspections against customer requirements
  • Conduct in-depth review and able to properly interpret acceptance criteria in accordance with customer purchase order & specifications, including industry standards
  • Command of problem solving techniques such as; 8D, Fish-Bone, 5-why & facilitate Team Based Root Cause Corrective Action(s).
  • Define detailed in-process & final inspection plans
  • Audit in process inspection reports/checklist on the production floor
  • Perform and fill out AS9102 First Article Inspections and Inspection Reports
  • Compile and confirm the accuracy of customer required shipment paperwork
  • Understand and follow internal inspection procedures and maintain inspection records
  • Proper tool selection based on tolerance zones
  • Understand and maintain the ERP system per company policies
  • Keep current with industry inspection techniques, practices and required standards
  • Understand and stay current with industry standard inspection equipment; including calipers, micrometers, bore gauges, height gauges, indicators, etc. and the calibration and maintenance of these instruments
  • Understand and stay current with GD&T standards, terminology and inspection methodologies
  • Be willing to perform other duties as assigned (Calibration, Audits, CAPA, Customer Complaints, RMAs, etc.)
  • At least 3-5 years practical experience in bench inspections and general practices and methodologies


Requirements

  • Experience with AS9100 and AS9102 
  • Working knowledge of Special Processes
  • Minimum of 3-5 years practical experience working with bench inspection processes and in-process inspections
  • Working knowledge of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T)
  • Strong time management
  • Ability to work independently and meet deadlines
  • Experience working in a manufacturing environment 
  • Good verbal and written communication
  • Experience working with MS Excel and Word


We offer comprehensive benefits including:

  • Paid Time Off
  • 401(k) with employer match
  • Quarterly Incentive compensation
  • Paid Holidays
  • Medical, dental, vision & life insurance
  • Short- and long-term disability

IMPORTANT NOTICE:

To adhere to U.S. Government international trade regulations, applicant must be a U.S. Citizen, or lawful permanent resident of the U.S.


At Primus Aerospace, we are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment that supports, respects, and celebrates all individuals.


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