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

Quality Engineer (PCBA)

Boulder, CO

$75K - $97K/yr

Experienced with AS9102 First Article Inspection Report (FAIR) * Basic understanding of RF electronics and digital circuits * Familiar with EEE components, through hole, and surface mount package ...

Quality Engineer (PCBA)

Boulder, CO · On-site

$95K - $130K/yr

Experienced with AS9102 First Article Inspection Report (FAIR) * Basic understanding of RF electronics and digital circuits * Familiar with EEE components, through hole, and surface mount package ...

Additionally, to do quality checks and First Article Inspections on the product including dimensions and appearance to ensure it meets product specifications. To fully participate in TPM team ...

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Machinist

Watkins, CO · On-site

$40 - $60/hr

Proven ability to hold tight tolerances and complete 1st article inspections * Organizes, stages, and moves materials as required * Evaluates and requisitions purchased tooling and supplies

Additionally, to do quality checks and First Article Inspections on the product including dimensions and appearance to ensure it meets product specifications. To fully participate in TPM team ...

Perform First Article Inspections (FAIs) and support product evaluation activities. Accurately document inspection and test results and maintain quality records in accordance with Good Documentation ...

QC Inspection Technician - Englewood, CO

Arvada, CO · On-site

$19.25 - $24.50/hr

... Perform First Article Inspections (FAIs) and support product evaluation activities. • Accurately document inspection and test results and maintain quality records in accordance with Good ...

Sr. Manufacturing Engineer

Broomfield, CO · On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

DFM/DFA review, process definition, first-article inspection, pilot build, and production qualification * Participate in hardware design reviews; identify and document manufacturability risks early ...

Review and approve first article inspections while ensuring components and assemblies meet engineering specifications. * Identify and execute cost reduction opportunities through design improvements ...

Quality Technician II

Denver, CO · On-site

$18.75 - $25.25/hr

Conduct 1st Article inspection on machined, formed, outsourced and cut parts. * Assist in training employees on quality standards and best practices, fostering a culture of quality within the ...

Quality Technician II

Denver, CO

$18.50 - $25/hr

Conduct 1st Article inspection on machined, formed, outsourced and cut parts. * Assist in training employees on quality standards and best practices, fostering a culture of quality within the ...

Showing results 41-60

First Article Inspector information

See Denver, CO salary details

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How much do first article inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 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 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 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 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 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, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,571 per year, or $28.2 per hour.

Quality Engineer (PCBA)

FIRST RF

Boulder, CO

$75K - $97K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Summary

FIRST RF is looking for an experienced Quality Engineer with a strong background in PCBA processes and aerospace AS9100 Quality Management System (QMS). In this role, you will help support our broad product platforms of advanced passive and active RF antenna systems.

Key Responsibilities
  • Ensure Quality for printed circuit board assembly with knowledge of PCBA manufacturing process
  • Visual Inspection solder joints, examine defects under magnification
  • Understand ESD protocols, usage of electronic test equipment
  • Conduct incoming inspection to ensure traceability of parts and materials
  • Review of supplier sampling inspection reports
  • Investigate nonconforming materials, generate NCR to document defects
  • Lead MRB, determine root cause, and drive corrective actions
  • Conduct in-process and final inspection of hardware per build work instruction
  • Verify in-process and final test results per test procedures
  • Ensure completeness of build and test documentation, generate CoCs
  • Scan and archive all applicable records and objective evidence
  • Clear communication with internal peers as well as suppliers and customers
  • Tasks and assignments required to ensure implementation of AS9100 QMS
  • Update procedures, work instructions, and forms for process improvements
Required Education and Experience
  • Must have U.S. citizenship and ability to obtain a U.S. Security Clearance
  • Bachelor’s degree in technical engineering field
  • 5+ years of experience in Quality and Product Assurance
  • Familiar with and/or currently have an IPC-A-610 Certification
  • Experienced with AS9102 First Article Inspection Report (FAIR)
  • Basic understanding of RF electronics and digital circuits
  • Familiar with EEE components, through hole, and surface mount package
Preferred Education and Experience
  • Work experience in AS9100 Quality Management System (QMS)
  • Understand IPC structure for PCB, PCBA, and cable harness
  • Follow electrical schematics, ability to conduct electronics troubleshooting
  • Basic knowledge of software, scripts, and programming languages
  • Familiar with J-STD-001 soldering standard
  • Utilized multimeter, network analyzer, signal generator, power meter
  • Understand mechanical drawings, machined parts and knowledge or GD&T
  • Knowledge of various industry standards and specifications
  • Familiar with NADCAP Certification relating to special processes
Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Supervisory Responsibility

This position has no direct supervisory responsibilities.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work

This is a full-time position at 40 hours per week. Typical office hours include Monday-Friday, 8:00am-4:30pm; however, these hours may vary based on workload and the manager’s discretion.

Travel

No travel is expected for this position.

Physical Demands

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and ability to adjust focus. This would require the ability to lift files, open filing cabinets, and bend or stand on a stool as necessary. The employee will also regularly be seated at a desk and using a computer. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

About FIRST RF

FIRST RF is a fast-growing, multi-discipline, privately owned small business focused on engineering and manufacturing of advanced technologies - specifically in antennas and radio frequency (RF) systems. We are an energetic team empowered with world-class facilities and resources. We promote a culture which prioritizes innovation and responsiveness. By making bold investments in the development of groundbreaking technologies, FIRST RF has fielded award-winning products ranging from revolutionary passive antennas to highly complex, active antenna systems.

Benefits Summary

We offer all employees four weeks of PTO each year, flexible scheduling, hybrid work, tuition reimbursement, up to 6% 401(k) match, and healthcare, dental, and vision plans.

AAP/EEO Statement

We are an Equal Employment Opportunity employer committed to providing equal opportunity in all of our employment practices, including selection, hiring, assignment, re-assignment, promotion, transfer, compensation, discipline, and termination. The Company prohibits discrimination, harassment, and retaliation in employment based on race; color; religion; genetic information; national origin; sex (including same sex); sexual orientation; gender identity; pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; age; disability or handicap; citizenship status; service member status; or any other category protected by federal, state, or local law. We support protected veterans and individuals with disabilities through our affirmative action program.


First Rf logo

About First Rf

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Boulder, CO, US

Year founded

2003