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

CMM Programmer

Orange, CA · Remote

$30 - $35/hr

Conduct First Article Inspections (FAIs) per AS9102, along with in-process and final inspections. * Identify, document, and report nonconformances; generate NCRs and assist in root cause analysis and ...

Experience with Manufacturing processes and their related systems (Jira, MES, ERP, Teamcenter, CAD) * Knowledge of First Article Inspection requirements and processes * Highly motivated team player ...

QUALIFICATIONS · Experience with First Article inspection AS9102 (Aerospace) · Experience with mechanical inspection and GD&T knowledge. · Experience with reviewing supplier certs (Material certs ...

Perform and oversee in-process, final, and First Article Inspections (FAI) using advanced metrology tools, mechanical drawings, and blueprints. * Problem Solve: Navigate challenging production ...

Experience with Manufacturing processes and their related systems (Jira, MES, ERP, Teamcenter, CAD) * Knowledge of First Article Inspection requirements and processes * Highly motivated team player ...

Perform in-process, first article, and final inspections of CNC machined * components * Interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and specifications * Use precision measuring instruments (calipers ...

Perform in-process, first article, and final inspections of CNC machined * components * Interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and specifications * Use precision measuring instruments (calipers ...

QC Inspector

Irvine, CA · On-site

$17 - $21/hr

Complete First Article Inspections as well as receiving, in-process, and final and packaging inspections against customer requirements with minimal supervision * Train inspection personnel. * Inspect ...

Complete First Article Inspections as well as receiving, in-process, and final and packaging inspections against customer requirements with minimal supervision * Train inspection personnel. * Inspect ...

QC Inspector

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$17 - $21/hr

Complete First Article Inspections as well as receiving, in-process, and final and packaging inspections against customer requirements with minimal supervision * Train inspection personnel. * Inspect ...

QC Inspector

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$17 - $21/hr

Complete First Article Inspections as well as receiving, in-process, and final and packaging inspections against customer requirements with minimal supervision * Train inspection personnel. * Inspect ...

Final Inspector - Level 3

Brea, CA · On-site

$25 - $26/hr

Perform and record results of first article inspections of boards after Thru-Hole. * Perform sub-assembly, box build, shipping, and receiving inspection as required. * Assist in failure ...

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First Article Inspector information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$13

$28

$54

How much do first article inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for first article inspector in Riverside, CA is $28.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.33 and $32.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is QC inspection a good career?

A First Article Inspector role involves evaluating initial product samples to ensure quality standards are met, often requiring attention to detail and knowledge of inspection tools. It can be a stable career with opportunities for advancement, especially with certifications like ASQ CQI, and is valued in manufacturing and production environments.

What type of inspectors make the most money?

Senior inspectors such as quality control managers, aerospace inspectors, or specialized industrial inspectors tend to earn the highest salaries. These roles often require advanced certifications, extensive experience, and expertise in specific industries or tools, which contribute to higher compensation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the First Article Inspector position, and why are they important?

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 does a first article inspector do?

A first article inspector reviews and verifies the initial production sample of a part or product to ensure it meets design specifications, quality standards, and customer requirements. They perform detailed inspections, document findings, and may use measurement tools or inspection software as part of their quality control process.

How much do SpaceX quality inspector make?

First Article Inspectors at SpaceX typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience and location. The role involves inspecting parts and assemblies, often requiring knowledge of quality standards and inspection tools. Salaries can vary based on certifications and the complexity of the projects.

What is a First Article Inspector job?

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 popular job titles related to First Article Inspector jobs in Riverside, CA? For First Article Inspector jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching First Article Inspector jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for First Article Inspector jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for First Article Inspector jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most First Article Inspector job openings:
Infographic showing various First Article Inspector job openings in Riverside, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 74% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 76% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,367 per year, or $28.5 per hour.
Quality Assurance Administrator

Quality Assurance Administrator

TAD PGS, Inc

Irvine, CA

$20 - $25/hr

Contractor

Medical, Retirement

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

We have an outstanding Contract position for a Quality Assurance Administrator to join a leading Company located in the Irvine, CA surrounding area.

Pay Rate: $20.00 - $25.00

The Quality Assurance Administrator supports the Quality organization by maintaining accurate quality records, compiling customer-specific data packs, and ensuring compliance with aerospace quality requirements. This role requires hands-on experience with AS9102 First Article Inspection Reports (FAIRs), aerospace customer portals, and strong administrative and organizational skills to support contract manufacturing operations.

Job Responsibilities:
  • Compile and review AS9102 First Article Inspection Reports (FAIRs) to ensure completeness, accuracy, and customer compliance
  • Prepare and maintain customer quality data packs, including certifications, inspection reports, material traceability, and process records
  • Upload, submit, and manage documentation through aerospace customer portals
  • Control and maintain quality records in accordance with internal procedures and regulatory requirements
  • Support internal and external audits by retrieving and organizing quality documentation
  • Coordinate with Quality Engineers, Production, Purchasing, and Planning to obtain required documentation
  • Track document status and ensure timely submission to meet customer delivery requirements
  • Assist with document control activities, including revision management and retention requirements
  • Communicate professionally with customers regarding quality documentation issues or clarifications
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives within the Quality Management System (QMS)

Basic Hiring Criteria:
  • High school diploma or equivalent; associate degree or higher preferred
  • Minimum 2-3 years of experience in a Quality, Manufacturing, or Aerospace environment
  • Working knowledge of AS9102 First Article Inspection requirements
  • Experience compiling and submitting aerospace customer data packs
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook; SharePoint experience a plus)
  • Familiarity with aerospace customer portals and electronic document submission systems
  • Strong attention to detail and document accuracy
  • Excellent organizational, time management, and record-keeping skills
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment

Desired Qualifications:
  • Experience in a contract manufacturing aerospace company
  • Familiarity with AS9100 Quality Management Systems
  • Exposure to ERP/MRP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Epicor, NetSuite)
  • Prior experience supporting customer or third-party audits

This position requires access to technologies and hardware subject to US national security-based export control requirements. All applicants must be US Persons (8 USC 1324b(a)(3)), or otherwise authorized by the U.S. Government. No company sponsorship will be offered.
Benefits offered vary by contract. Depending on your temporary assignment, benefits may include direct deposit, free career counseling services, 401(k), select paid holidays, short-term disability insurance, skills training, employee referral bonus, and affordable medical coverage plan, and DailyPay (in some locations). For a full description of benefits available to you, be sure to talk with your recruiter.

Military connected talent encouraged to apply.

VEVRAA Federal Contractor / Request Priority Protected Veteran Referrals / Equal Opportunity Employer / Veterans / Disabled

To read our Candidate Privacy Information Statement, which explains how we will use your information, please visit http://www.tadpgs.com/candidate-privacy/ or https://pdsdefense.com/candidate-privacy/

The Company will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in accordance with federal, state, and local laws and/or security clearance requirements, including, as applicable:

  • The California Fair Chance Act
  • Los Angeles City Fair Chance Ordinance
  • Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers
  • San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance