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First Article Inspector Jobs in Palmdale, CA (NOW HIRING)

B&B Manufacturing

First Article Inspector III

Valencia, CA · On-site

$30 - $52.68/hr

Responsible for performing advanced First Article Inspections, developing and implementing complex inspection methods, and supporting CMM programming activities. This position demonstrates strong ...

Aerotek

Inspector

Valencia, CA

Execute formal first article inspection reports in accordance with AS9102 standards. * Review Acceptance Test Procedures (ATP) and related documentation for accuracy and completeness. * Obtain ...

SQA Services

Composites Inspector

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Perform in-process, final, and first article inspections (AS9102) of aerospace composite parts and assemblies. * Inspect composite materials (i.e., carbon fiber, fiberglass, honeycomb, and bonded ...

S&H Machine, Inc.

Inspector

Burbank, CA · On-site

$21.50 - $40.50/hr

Perform First Article Inspections (FAI) and create reports per AS9102 * Conduct receiving, in-process, and final inspections * Inspect threads, bores, surface finishes, and overall part quality

RTCA

QA Inspector II-III

Chatsworth, CA · On-site

$22 - $32/hr

Support or perform First Article Inspection (FAI) activities and AS9102 documentation. * Identify, document, and communicate nonconforming conditions while collaborating with Production, Engineering ...

Verify Inc.

Mechanical Inspector

Sylmar, CA

$25 - $30/hr

Experience performing First Article Inspections (FAIs) in accordance to the AS9102 standard and knowledge is required. * Sikorsky CQR or DQR inspection experience is required. * Ideal candidate will ...

Verify Inc.

Mechanical Inspector

Sylmar, CA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Experience performing First Article Inspections (FAIs) in accordance to the AS9102 standard and knowledge is required. * Sikorsky CQR or DQR inspection experience is required. * Ideal candidate will ...

Verify

Mechanical Inspector

Sylmar, CA

$25 - $30/hr

Experience performing First Article Inspections (FAIs) in accordance to the AS9102 standard and knowledge is required. * Sikorsky CQR or DQR inspection experience is required. * Ideal candidate will ...

Belcan

CNC Machinist II - 2nd Shift

Valencia, CA

$26.78 - $40.14/hr

CNC setup experience, first article inspection experience, ability to edit CNC programs, CNC programming experience, aerospace or tight-tolerance machining background, experience with Okuma/Haas ...

Verify

Mechanical Inspector

Sylmar, CA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Experience performing First Article Inspections (FAIs) in accordance to the AS9102 standard and knowledge is required. * Sikorsky CQR or DQR inspection experience is required. * Ideal candidate will ...

Belcan

CMM Quality Inspector

Valencia, CA

$27 - $35/hr

... First Article Inspection Reports as assigned; - Reviewing final-inspection documentation; - Supporting calibrated-tool control; and communicating inspection issues with production and Quality ...

Verify

ElectroMechanical Inspector

Chatsworth, CA · On-site

$35/hr

Review and approve First Article Inspections (FAI) and other quality documentation. * Familiarity with AS9102 Rev C, preferred * Identify non-conformances and collaborate with suppliers to resolve

Verify

ElectroMechanical Inspector

Chatsworth, CA

$35/hr

Review and approve First Article Inspections (FAI) and other quality documentation. * Familiarity with AS9102 Rev C, preferred * Identify non-conformances and collaborate with suppliers to resolve

Verify Inc.

ElectroMechanical Inspector

Chatsworth, CA · On-site

$35/hr

Review and approve First Article Inspections (FAI) and other quality documentation. * Familiarity with AS9102 Rev C, preferred * Identify non-conformances and collaborate with suppliers to resolve

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All JobsFirst Article Inspector JobsFirst Article Inspector Jobs in Palmdale, CA

First Article Inspector information

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How much do first article inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for first article inspector in Palmdale, CA is $29.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.81 and $33.65 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 Palmdale, CA?

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First Article Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Article Inspector job openings in Palmdale, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,825 per year, or $29.2 per hour.

First Article Inspector III

B&B Manufacturing Co., Inc.

Santa Clarita, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Key responsibilities

  • Perform advanced inspections using precision measurement tools and interpret engineering drawings and GD&T requirements.

  • Program, operate, and troubleshoot CMM equipment, and develop inspection programs for FAI requirements.

  • Prepare inspection reports, verify calibration of inspection equipment, and support continuous improvement of inspection processes.

Job description

Job Summary


B&B Manufacturing Co. is seeking an experienced First Article Inspection (FAI) / CMM Programmer to perform advanced inspections, develop and implement complex inspection methods, and support CMM programming activities. This role requires strong technical expertise in precision measurement, GD&T interpretation, inspection reporting, and metrology. The ideal candidate will work independently while collaborating with Engineering, Manufacturing, and Quality teams to ensure products meet customer and regulatory requirements.


Key Responsibilities


Advanced Inspection & Measurement


  • Perform advanced inspections using precision hand tools and measurement equipment with a high degree of accuracy.
  • Select appropriate inspection methods based on part geometry, tolerances, and customer specifications.
  • Interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, specifications, and GD&T requirements to verify compliance.

CMM Programming & Inspection Support


  • Program, operate, and troubleshoot Hexagon, Manual, and DCC Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMMs).
  • Develop and modify PC-DMIS inspection programs for production and First Article Inspection (FAI) requirements.
  • Set up probes, align fixtures, and validate measurement routines.
  • Troubleshoot dimensional discrepancies and CMM inspection issues through first-level problem solving.

Inspection Reporting & Documentation

  • Prepare and maintain First Article Inspection (FAI) documentation and detailed inspection reports.
  • Review inspection data for accuracy, completeness, and traceability.
  • Support the standardization of reporting formats and inspection methods.

Metrology & Equipment Support

  • Verify all inspection equipment is calibrated and suitable for use before inspections.
  • Utilize optical comparators, Keyence measurement systems, and 3D scanning equipment.
  • Assist with measurement system validation and equipment maintenance activities.

Problem Solving & Continuous Improvement

  • Investigate dimensional nonconformances and support root cause analysis.
  • Collaborate with Engineering, Manufacturing, and Quality teams to resolve inspection issues.
  • Identify opportunities to improve inspection efficiency, repeatability, and workflow consistency.

Technical Support

  • Provide technical guidance and mentoring to Level I and Level II Inspectors.
  • Share best practices related to inspection techniques, programming, and measurement strategies.
  • Assist with onboarding and training new inspection personnel.

Qualifications

Required

  • High School Diploma or GED.
  • Minimum of 4 years of inspection or metrology experience.
  • Completion of a GD&T training course with demonstrated proficiency in applying GD&T principles.
  • Strong ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and technical specifications.
  • Experience performing First Article Inspections (FAIs).
  • Experience programming and operating CMM equipment.

Preferred

  • Experience with:
    • PC-DMIS
    • Hexagon CMM systems
    • Keyence measurement systems
    • Optical comparators
    • 3D scanning systems

ITAR Requirement

This position is subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Applicants must qualify as a U.S. Person, including:

  • U.S. Citizen
  • U.S. Permanent Resident (Green Card Holder)
  • Political Asylee
  • Refugee

Physical Requirements

  • Regular standing and reaching.
  • Frequent sitting, walking, visual inspection, and handling of precision components.
  • Ability to lift:
    • Up to 25 pounds regularly
    • Up to 10 pounds frequently
    • Up to 50 pounds occasionally

Equal Opportunity Employer

B&B Manufacturing Co. is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex,