ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

First Article Inspector Jobs (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 ...

Kamatics

First Article Technician

Bloomfield, CT · On-site

$24.61 - $36.91/hr

This role is responsible for generating AS9102-compliant First Article Inspection (FAI) packages, reviewing engineering documentation, and supporting inspection processes to ensure compliance with ...

Outform

First Article Intake (FAI) Specialist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18.25 - $24.50/hr

Complete first article inspections and approvals within 24 hours of sample receipt * Track and manage Idle Press Time Rate * Track and manage FAI Approval Rate * High school diploma or equivalent;

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsManufacturing JobsProduct Manufacturing JobsProduction Machine Operator JobsFirst Article Inspector Jobs

First Article Inspector information

See salary details

$12

$27

$52

How much do first article inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for first article inspector in the United States is $27.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $31.49 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.
More about First Article Inspector jobs

What cities are hiring for First Article Inspector jobs?

Cities with the most First Article Inspector job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of First Article Inspector jobs?

The most popular types of First Article Inspector jobs are:

What states have the most First Article Inspector jobs?

States with the most job openings for First Article Inspector jobs include:

What job categories do people searching First Article Inspector jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for First Article Inspector jobs are:

First Article Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Article Inspector job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,905 per year, or $27.4 per hour.

First Article Inspector III

B&B Manufacturing

Valencia, CA • On-site

$30 - $52.68/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Responsible for performing advanced First Article Inspections, developing and implementing complex inspection methods, and supporting CMM programming activities. This position demonstrates strong technical expertise in precision measurement, GD&T interpretation, and inspection reporting while operating independently on a wide range of products and manufacturing processes.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The duties and responsibilities described are not a comprehensive list and additional tasks may be assigned. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.
Advanced Inspection & Measurement
• Perform complex inspections using precision hand tools and measurement equipment with high accuracy and repeatability
• Select appropriate inspection methods based on part geometry, tolerances, and customer requirements
• Interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and GD&T requirements to ensure compliance
CMM Programming & Inspection Support
• Program, operate, and troubleshoot CMM systems (Hexagon/Manual/DCC) for standard and moderately complex inspections
• Develop and modify PC-DMIS inspection routines to support production and First Article requirements
• Assist in probe setup, fixture alignment, and measurement validation activities
• Support troubleshooting of CMM rejections and dimensional discrepancies through 1st-level problem solving
Inspection Reporting & Documentation
• Create and format inspection reports and First Article Inspection (FAI) documentation
• Review inspection data for completeness, accuracy, and traceability
• Support standardization and consistency of reporting formats and inspection methods
Metrology & Equipment Support
• Verify inspection equipment is calibrated and suitable for use prior to inspection activities
• Utilize additional inspection technologies including optical comparators, Keyence systems, and scanning equipment as required
• Support measurement system validation and equipment maintenance activities
Problem Solving & Process Improvement
• Investigate dimensional and feature-related nonconformances and support root cause analysis efforts
• Collaborate with Engineering, Manufacturing, and Quality teams to resolve inspection issues
• Identify opportunities to improve inspection efficiency, repeatability, and workflow consistency
Technical Support & Knowledge Sharing
• Provide technical support and guidance to Inspectors Levels 1-2
• Share best practices related to inspection methods, programming techniques, and measurement strategy
• Assist in onboarding and skill development of junior inspectors
QUALIFICATIONS, EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
• High School Diploma or Equivalent
• Minimum 4+ years of inspection/metrology experience
• Completed GD&T training course & demonstrates ability to apply all concepts
• Experience with PC-DMIS, Keyence, optical comparator, and 3D scanning systems
PHYSICAL DEMANDS - GENERAL ACTIVITIES
Regularly Frequently Occastionally Sitting X Standing X Walking X Climbing/Balancing X Reaching - With Arms and Hands X Stooping/Kneeling/Crouching/Crawling X Hearing X Feeling/Touching X Near/Far Visual Acuity X
PHYSICAL DEMANDS - LIFTING REQUIREMENTS
Regularly Frequently Occastionally Lifting/Moving up to 10 lbs X Lifting/Moving up to 25 lbs X Lifting/Moving up to 50 lbs X
This position requires use of information which is subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). All applicants must be U.S. persons within the meaning of ITAR. ITAR defines a U.S. person as a U.S. Citizen, U.S. Permanent Resident (i.e. 'Green Card Holder'), Political Asylee, or Refugee.
"B&B Manufacturing Co. is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran or disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law."

Apply