1

First Article Jobs in Connecticut (NOW HIRING)

Work with Engineering on prototype and first article builds. MINIMUM: * High school diploma or GED * Good mechanical aptitude; fluent in reading and understanding English - grade 12 level or higher;

Quality Engineer

Danbury, CT

$73K - $94K/yr

Review AS9102 First Article Reports (internal and external). * Analyze performance metrics, identify trends, recommend and implement actions for improvement. * Support production readiness and new ...

Mechanical Inspector

Danbury, CT · On-site

$25.75 - $34.25/hr

Support AS9102 First Article Inspection (FAI) activities and validate technical data packages * Monitor manufacturing processes including: * Precision machining * Bearing manufacturing * Mechanical ...

Mechanical Inspector

Danbury, CT · On-site

$25.75 - $34.25/hr

Support AS9102 First Article Inspection (FAI) activities and validate technical data packages * Monitor manufacturing processes including: * Precision machining * Bearing manufacturing * Mechanical ...

CMM Programmer

Columbia, CT · On-site

$35 - $45/hr

Perform first article inspections (FAI), in-process inspections, and final inspections in accordance with AS9102 requirements. * Create and optimize inspection routines to improve accuracy ...

Collaborate with precision optical component vendors on design-for-manufacturability, first article inspection, and ongoing process control. Review vendor dimensional and optical measurement data ...

CMM Programmer

Columbia, CT · On-site

$35 - $45/hr

Perform first article inspections (FAI), in-process inspections, and final inspections in accordance with AS9102 requirements. * Create and optimize inspection routines to improve accuracy ...

Showing results 41-60

First Article information

What is a first article?

A First Article job refers to the initial production run of a part or assembly used to verify that manufacturing processes meet design specifications. It typically involves a First Article Inspection (FAI), where dimensions, materials, and other critical features are reviewed against engineering requirements. This process ensures that the production setup is correct before full-scale manufacturing begins. First Article jobs are common in industries like aerospace, automotive, and medical devices, where precision and compliance are crucial.

What does a first article inspector do?

First Article Inspectors are responsible for verifying that the first item produced in a manufacturing run meets all required specifications and standards. Each day, you can expect to review engineering drawings, conduct precise measurements using specialized tools, and document inspection results in detailed reports. You may also coordinate with engineers, machinists, and production managers to resolve any discrepancies and provide feedback for process improvements. This role is vital for maintaining quality assurance and establishing a benchmark for the rest of the production run.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the first article position?

To thrive as a First Article Inspector, you need a strong background in quality control, blueprint reading, and manufacturing processes, typically supported by experience in a similar production or inspection environment. Familiarity with measurement tools such as calipers, micrometers, CMM machines, and quality management systems (QMS) like ISO 9001 is essential. Excellent attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication skills help inspectors collaborate with production teams and document results accurately. These skills are critical to ensure that initial production samples meet all specifications, preventing costly errors in mass production.

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

The top searched job categories for First Article jobs in Connecticut are:

Infographic showing various First Article job openings in Connecticut as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution.

Entry Level Quality Engineer I Aerospace | 7A - 3:30P

DRT Holdings, LLC

Winsted, CT • On-site

$60 - $75/hr

Other

Retirement

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

Entry Level Quality Engineer I Aerospace | 7A - 3:30P

FT REG-V0 CO POLICY Professional Winsted, CT, US

7 days ago Requisition ID: 2203

Sign On Bonus!!

Compensation : DOE + Performance Bonus + Benefits & 401K Day #1

DRT is seeking a Quality Engineer I to join our growing aerospace manufacturing team. This is an outstanding opportunity for an early-career engineer or quality professional who wants to develop expertise in aerospace manufacturing, quality systems, process validation, and continuous improvement.

You'll work alongside experienced Manufacturing Engineers, Quality Engineers, Operations leaders, and suppliers while gaining hands-on exposure to advanced aerospace manufacturing processes, AS9100 quality systems, First Article Inspection (FAIR), PPAP, supplier quality, and process improvement initiatives.

If you enjoy solving technical challenges, analyzing processes, and driving quality improvements, we'd love to hear from you!

Why Join DRT?

  • Work on components that support critical aerospace applications
  • Gain hands‑on experience in manufacturing quality, supplier quality, and process validation
  • Learn from experienced aerospace professionals and industry experts
  • Build skills in FAIR, PPAP, AS9100, root cause analysis, SPC, and continuous improvement
  • Enjoy opportunities for long‑term career growth and advancement
  • Competitive pay and comprehensive benefits package

What You'll Do

Drive Manufacturing Quality

  • Support qualification and validation of aerospace manufacturing processes.

  • Lead and coordinate AS9102 First Article Inspection Reports (FAIR), PPAP submissions, and process validation activities.

  • Develop and improve quality plans that align customer, engineering, and manufacturing requirements.

  • Create and maintain in-process and final inspection documentation.

  • Conduct Gage R&R, MSA, and correlation studies to ensure measurement accuracy.

  • Review engineering drawings, specifications, GD&T requirements, and customer quality requirements.

Solve Real Production Challenges

  • Participate in Material Review Board (MRB) activities and help resolve nonconforming material issues.

  • Support Root Cause Corrective Action (RCCA) investigations and corrective action implementation.

  • Analyze quality and process performance metrics to identify improvement opportunities.

  • Partner with Manufacturing, Engineering, and Inspection teams to resolve quality concerns and improve process capability.

Support Aerospace Quality Systems

  • Help maintain compliance with AS9100 and customer-specific requirements.

  • Participate in internal and external audits.

  • Maintain quality documentation, traceability records, inspection reports, and KPI metrics.

Improve Processes

  • Support Lean Manufacturing, Kaizen, and Six Sigma initiatives.

  • Utilize SPC and data analysis tools to improve process performance.

  • Drive improvements that reduce scrap, rework, and variation while increasing efficiency.

What We're Looking For

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Aerospace, Quality, Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Technology, or a related technical field.

  • 3+ years of manufacturing, quality, engineering, or related technical experience.

  • Experience supporting AS9102 FAIR, PPAP, and process validation activities.

  • Experience with First Piece, In-Process, and Final Inspection activities.

  • Experience participating in RCCA investigations and corrective action implementation.

  • Strong understanding of GD&T.

  • Ability to interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and inspection requirements.

  • Knowledge of AS9100 and/or ISO 9001 quality systems.

  • Strong analytical, organizational, and problem‑solving skills.

  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office, including Excel.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Aerospace or other regulated manufacturing experience.

  • Six Sigma Green Belt certification.

  • DQR and/or LCS (CLCSR) certification.

  • Internal Quality Management System auditing experience.

  • Experience with VBA or Python.

  • Familiarity with Hexagon PC-DMIS, Mitutoyo systems, and GOM software.

  • Exposure to supplier quality and supplier audits.

  • CQE, Lean Manufacturing, or additional quality certifications.

  • Experience supporting OEM, Tier 1 aerospace suppliers, or FAA-regulated environments.

#J-18808-Ljbffr