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First Article Inspector Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Hexcel Corporation

I-Inspector

Kent, WA · On-site

$20 - $32.73/hr

Complete First Article inspection reports per AS9102. * Problem-solve, research, and navigate from planning or work order documentation to First Article Inspection Reports (FAIR), Purchase Orders ...

Hexcel Corporation

I-Inspector

Kent, WA

$20 - $32.73/hr

Complete First Article inspection reports per AS9102. * Problem-solve, research, and navigate from planning or work order documentation to First Article Inspection Reports (FAIR), Purchase Orders ...

Hexcel Corporation

I-Inspector

Kent, WA

$20 - $32.73/hr

Complete First Article inspection reports per AS9102. * Problem-solve, research, and navigate from planning or work order documentation to First Article Inspection Reports (FAIR), Purchase Orders ...

Hexcel Corporation

I-Inspector

Kent, WA · On-site

$20 - $32.73/hr

Complete First Article inspection reports per AS9102. * Problem-solve, research, and navigate from planning or work order documentation to First Article Inspection Reports (FAIR), Purchase Orders ...

Verify Inc.

Mechanical Inspector

Seattle, WA

$28.75 - $38/hr

Experience performing First Article Inspections (FAIs) in accordance to the Aerospace Standard (AS9102) and knowledge is required. * Ideal candidate will have a minimum of five years experience ...

Verify Inc.

Mechanical Inspector

Everett, WA · On-site

$28 - $35/hr

Experience performing First Article Inspections (FAIs) in accordance to the Aerospace Standard (AS9102) and knowledge is required. * Ideal candidate will have a minimum of five years experience ...

Aerotek

Quality Inspector

Everett, WA

$25 - $27/hr

First Article Inspection (FAI) experience. * Mechanical skills and experience with hand tools. * Proper use of measuring equipment and Measurement System Analysis. Additional Skills & Qualifications

King Machine

Quality Inspector - Aerospace

Mukilteo, WA · On-site

$22 - $32/hr

Complete AS9102 First Article Inspection Reports (FAIR's). Knowledge & Skills: * Knowledge of CMM inspection, Prior experience with PC-DMIS is preferred. * Strong understanding and ability to ...

Umbra Cuscinetti Inc.

Inspector II

Everett, WA

$24 - $30/hr

Perform receiving, in-process, final dimensional, First Article (FAI) and final inspections to customer drawings and industry specifications. * Use standard inspection measuring equipment and make ...

Cascade Gasket and Manufacturing Co, Inc.

Be Seen First

Quality Inspector II

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$23 - $30/hr

First Article Inspections/FAIRS. Solid understanding of metrology. Is proficient with hand measurement tools ie. Micrometers, Height Gauges to satisfy final product acceptance and FAIRS. Has a basic ...

Cascade Gasket and Manufacturing Co, Inc.

Be Seen First

Quality Inspector II

Auburn, WA · On-site

$23 - $30/hr

First Article Inspections/FAIRS. Solid understanding of metrology. Is proficient with hand measurement tools ie. Micrometers, Height Gauges to satisfy final product acceptance and FAIRS. Has a basic ...

L3HHCM20

Quality Inspector C - First Shift

Redmond, WA

$25 - $46.63/hr

Completing first article inspections (FAIs) * In process inspections for drawing compliance * Final assembly inspections for product acceptance and workmanship * Cleanroom and laminar flow bench ...

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All JobsFirst Article Inspector JobsFirst Article Inspector Jobs in Seattle, WA

First Article Inspector information

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How much do first article inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for first article inspector in Seattle, WA is $31.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.06 and $35.82 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 Seattle, WA? For First Article Inspector jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching First Article Inspector jobs in Seattle, WA look for? The top searched job categories for First Article Inspector jobs in Seattle, WA are:
First Article Inspector jobs near you
I-Inspector

I-Inspector

Hexcel Corporation

Kent, WA • On-site

$20 - $32.73/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 4 hours ago

Hexcel rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

With our strong investment in research and development and our culture of continuous improvement, Hexcel is the industry leader in the manufacturing of advance composite materials, including carbon fiber, woven reinforcements, resins, prepregs, honeycombs and additive manufactured parts. We invite you to join the Hexcel team at various manufacturing sites, sales offices and R&D centers around the globe. Become a part of the "strength within."
Hexcel is looking for an I-Inspector for their Kent, WA location. An I-Inspector is an experienced and versatile quality assurance inspector that is responsible for conducting detailed dimensional and visual inspections of critical parts and assemblies, including First Article, in process, incoming raw materials, and final inspection. They are responsible for documenting inspection findings as well as producing necessary inspection reports to accept or reject products.
Summary pay range: $20.00 - $32.73 hourly wage rate.
The selected individual will be responsible for but not limited to the following obligations:
  • Conduct detailed dimensional and visual inspections of critical parts and assemblies.
    • Read and understand complex engineering drawings (including MBD) and specifications (PL, title block, tolerances, sheet, zone, water lines, butt lines, station lines, dimensions, general notes, flag notes, etc.).
    • Inspect in multiple areas/processes over varying shift assignments.
    • Various customer and Internal certifications will be required to be obtained and maintained.
    • Independently select and use the appropriate measuring devices for given inspection applications.
    • Respond to requests with a sense of urgency and maintain a customer service-oriented approach.
  • Complete First Article inspection reports per AS9102.
  • Problem-solve, research, and navigate from planning or work order documentation to First Article Inspection Reports (FAIR), Purchase Orders, engineering, specification, and other inspection documentation as applicable.
  • Apply basic knowledge, including understanding, implementation and maintenance, of ISO 9001/AS9100 guidelines.

Qualifications:
  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • Must have two years of quality assurance or inspection experience, aerospace/aviation industry preferred. Familiar with source inspection activities a plus.
  • Must possess basic computer skills and be able to use Microsoft office: Excel, Word, Outlook, Forms, etc.
  • Strong reading and analytical skills. Ability to communicate issues with team members and other departments.
  • The physical demands described here are representative ones you must meet to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. You must be able to move freely around the facility and workstation, stoop, bend, reach, kneel, stand and walk for extended periods of time up to and over 8 hours a day. You must also lift and/or move up to 35 pounds quite frequently.
  • Experience reading, interpreting, and following work instructions, procedures, contracts, drawings, and specifications.

At Hexcel, we strive to deliver a Total Rewards package that will attract, engage and retain the top talent. Elements of the Total Rewards package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities.
Hexcel also provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work.
The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.
Please note that the salary information shown above is a general guideline only. Salaries are based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
Eligible candidates must be a: U.S. citizen, U.S. national, person lawfully admitted for permanent residence, temporary resident under sections 210(a) or 245(A) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, person admitted in refugee status, or person granted asylum. Hexcel (NYSE: HXL) is a global leader in advanced composites technology, a leading producer of carbon fiber, and the world leader in honeycomb manufacturing for the commercial aerospace industry.
Hexcel is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, physical or mental disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected class.

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