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First Article Inspector Jobs in Gilbert, AZ (NOW HIRING)

Phoenix Defense

FIRST ARTICLE INSPECTOR

Gilbert, AZ · On-site

As the First Article Inspector , responsibilities will include but may not be limited to: * Coordinate the collection of all required documentation, manufacturer certifications, inspection data and ...

CMI Group Aerospace & Defense

FAI / CMM Inspector

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$24.25 - $31.25/hr

First Article Inspector / CMM Inspector - Day Shift Position Aerospace & Defense Manufacturing Location: 1515 W 17th St, Tempe, AZ 85281 Shift options: Day Shift (Monday - Friday) CMM experience is ...

CMI Group Aerospace & Defense

FAI / CMM Inspector

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$24.25 - $31.25/hr

First Article Inspector / CMM Inspector - Day Shift PositionAerospace & Defense ManufacturingLocation: 1515 W 17th St, Tempe, AZ 85281Shift options: Day Shift (Monday - Friday)CMM experience is ...

Laborup

CMM Quality Inspector

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$31/hr

The role includes first article, in-process, and final inspection, working closely with machinists, programmers, and engineers to ensure parts meet customer specifications. Experience with other CMM ...

Laborup

CMM Quality Inspector

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$31/hr

The role includes first article, in-process, and final inspection, working closely with machinists, programmers, and engineers to ensure parts meet customer specifications. Experience with other CMM ...

Laborup

CMM Quality Inspector

Tempe, AZ

$31/hr

The role includes first article, in-process, and final inspection, working closely with machinists, programmers, and engineers to ensure parts meet customer specifications. Experience with other CMM ...

Valence

Inspector 1 National

Tempe, AZ · On-site

Performs first article inspection on production units * Ability to read, comprehend and securely handle customers prints, work instructions and procedures. * Perform visual inspections. * Able to ...

Foresight Finishing/Valence Surface Technologies (Tempe)

Be Seen First

Quality Inspector I

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Performance: 1. Guides production, receiving inspection, test and determines the quality and conformance of products to the specification 2. Performs first article inspection on production units 3. ...

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All JobsFirst Article Inspector JobsFirst Article Inspector Jobs in Gilbert, AZ

First Article Inspector information

See Gilbert, AZ salary details

$12

$27

$51

How much do first article inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for first article inspector in Gilbert, AZ is $27.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.46 and $31.39 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 Gilbert, AZ?

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

What job categories do people searching First Article Inspector jobs in Gilbert, AZ look for?

The top searched job categories for First Article Inspector jobs in Gilbert, AZ are:

First Article Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Article Inspector job openings in Gilbert, AZ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,723 per year, or $27.3 per hour.

FIRST ARTICLE INSPECTOR

Phoenix Logistics Inc.

Gilbert, AZ • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

At PLI Manufacturing, a company of Phoenix Defense, our team members have incredible opportunities to support fabrication work of critical aerospace/space products for prime initiatives and projects in the aerospace and defense industries. We look for people who are team players, collaborative and bring bold new ideas.  Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work — and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

With every job we fill, our focus is on providing best in class service to our customers while offering the opportunity for career growth in a rewarding and innovative work environment. We are now hiring for a First Article Inspector.

WHAT YOU WILL DO:

 As the First Article Inspector, responsibilities will include but may not be limited to:

  • Coordinate the collection of all required documentation, manufacturer certifications, inspection data and additional paperwork required in support of the First Article Process based upon customer requirements.
  • Perform and document First Article Inspections (FAI) per AS9102 and/or Customer requirements, including delta and Internal FAI’s.
  • Verify and validate the FAI packages before submitting them to the quality team for review and approval.
  • Maintain FAI packages, process and test documentation in the company’s ERP system and upload to customer portals as necessary.
  • Create non-conformance and corrective action reports when necessary.
  • Drive Root cause and corrective action when repeat nonconformities are identified.
  • Perform quality control inspections, checks, and tests during the manufacture of products.
  • Assist with RMA & MRB duties and drive quick disposition for any nonconforming products as needed.
  • Participate in teams to help improve safety, FOD awareness, and reduce rework.
  • Maintain high level of integrity in dealing with all departments within the organization.

ABOUT YOU:

  • Associate degree or High school diploma with a minimum of 4 years relevant experience.
  • Understanding of AS9102 First Article Inspection Requirements
  • Skilled in the use of measuring equipment, such as scales, calipers, and micrometers.
  • Strong attention to detail, organization, time management and communication skills.
  • Ability to learn and train other team members new processes or techniques.
  • Computer skills (Microsoft Excel, Word, general ERP/MRP knowledge).

PREFERRED SKILLS/QUALIFICATIONS:

  • AS9100 or ISO9001 Quality Management System knowledge
  • SolidWorks Inspection software proficiency
  • J-STD-001 Solder Workmanship
  • IPC-A-620 Wire Harness Workmanship

BENEFITS:

  • 401K
  • Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
  • Accrued PTO and 10 paid holidays
  • Tuition assistance for professional growth
  • Perks at Work discount program

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