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First Article Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NY · On-site

Produce AS9102 First Article Inspection Reports using DISCUS/Net-Inspect; manage documentation and submissions via customer portals. * Verify materials and process certifications against drawings ...

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How much do first article inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 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.
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Infographic showing various First Article Inspector job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,905 per year, or $27.4 per hour.

First Article Quality Inspector

Lake Zurich, IL • On-site

AFCO Products, Incorporated
Machinery Manufacturing • 11 - 50 employees

Other

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Summary

Under general supervision, the First Article Inspector assures the quality of processes and products by performing audits, inspections, tests, defect analysis, first article sample submission, setting & troubleshooting visual inspection equipment, and reporting on results of measurement standards.

Duties
  • Conduct periodic product audits/inspections on running parts and conduct final shipment audits.
  • Perform system and process audits (supplier certification, internal system, subcontractor, comprehensive process, set-up verifications, etc.).
  • Investigate and process quality problems to aid in their thorough resolution.
  • Interpret internal and customer specifications to separate acceptable from rejectable products, and provide guidance for manufacturing personal on the interpretation of product quality standards.
  • Maintain filing system of inspection records for manufactured products.
  • Update changes to customer specification criteria as required.
  • Perform Receiving Inspection on vendor product to verify conformance to LT standards. Communicate with vendors concerning quality issues if required.
  • Ensure all necessary inspection records accompany shipments.
  • Adheres to quality and safety systems or maintenance of quality and safety standards.
  • Perform other related duties and assignments as required.
Requirements
  • Experience with QA/QC in manufacturing
  • Knowledge of ISO and other related quality system standards
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints with close attention to detail
  • Ability to maintain and use precision measuring instruments
  • Ability to operate inspection/lab equipment
  • Computer skills including spreadsheet, word processing, and database management software
  • Good written and oral communication skills
  • Good interpersonal and organizational skills

Salary is dependent on prior work experience.

Shop is clean, well-lit and air conditioned with modern machinery.

Benefit package includes health, dental, vacation and 401k retirement options.

All resumes will be kept confidential.

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