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First Article Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Complete and document First Article Inspections (FAIs) in accordance with customer requirements and acceptance criteria. * Process and document non-conforming material through the MRB process and ...

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Quality Technician

Crystal Lake, IL · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Complete First Article Inspections (FAI) and required customer documentation. * Document and process non-conforming materials and assist with MRB activities. * Complete Certificates of Conformance ...

Personally program, set up, and run first-article, in-process, and final inspections using PC-DMIS and Calypso for complex Mil/Aero components * Interpret and apply GD&T per ASME Y14.5 to develop ...

Finals & FAI Inspector

Roscoe, IL · On-site

$20 - $40/hr

The ideal candidate will be responsible for ensuring the quality and accuracy of first article inspections and final product inspections in compliance with customer and internal requirements. Key ...

CNC Operator

Bloomington, IL · On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

Perform first article inspection and conduct periodic quality checks on production parts * Organize materials for upcoming jobs during machine cycles * Maintain a clean and safe work environment ...

Lead complex inspection projects including first article inspections (FAI), capability studies, and new product validation. * Perform inspection using variable and attribute gaging methods to verify ...

Showing results 21-40

First Article information

See Illinois salary details

$18

$47

$76

How much do first article jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for first article in Illinois is $47.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37.02 and $53.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Illinois look for?

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

Infographic showing various First Article job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,842 per year, or $47 per hour.

Quality Technician (1st shift)

Durex Industries

Cary, IL • On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Conduct product and raw material inspections and audits to verify conformance to specifications.

  • Complete and document First Article Inspections (FAIs) in accordance with customer requirements and acceptance criteria.

  • Process and document non-conforming material through the MRB process and ensure proper disposition of rejected material.


Job description

Quality Technician (1st shift)
Composed of Chromalox, DurexIndustries, Vulcanic, and Thermocoax businesses, Electrical Thermal Solutions(ETS), part of Spirax Group, creates electrical process heating and temperaturemanagement solutions, including industrial heaters and systems, heat tracing,and a range of component technologies.
Durex Industries has over 40 years' expertise inthe thermal control business. A trusted custom thermal solutions supplier andengineering design partner for customers across a range of industry sectors, italso offers engineering, manufacturing, testing and laboratory and qualityassurance services.
Durex serves businesses in sectors includingprocess industries, life sciences, plastics processing, food and packaging,aerospace, defense, and security. Its innovative bespoke solutions - such asretrofitting heating elements to prevent outdoor beverage dispensers fromfailing in low temperatures and custom-made circulation heaters to heat fuel inlarge ship engines.
Join us as we continue to provide solutions to ourcustomers and the world!
The Role:
As a Quality Technician, you will joinour Quality team and support product quality, process compliance, andcontinuous improvement initiatives throughout manufacturing operations. Thisrole is responsible for conducting product and raw material inspections,processing First Article Inspections (FAIs), maintaining quality documentation,and providing manufacturing feedback through data collection and analysis. Youwill play a key role in ensuring products meet customer requirements andquality standards while supporting the Quality Management System
Your Responsibilities:
  • Conduct product and raw material inspections and audits to verify conformance to specifications.
  • Complete and document First Article Inspections (FAIs) in accordance with customer requirements and acceptance criteria.
  • Process and document non-conforming material through the MRB process and ensure proper disposition of rejected material.
  • Complete Certificates of Conformance (CoCs) and other customer-required quality documentation.
  • Utilize appropriate inspection tools, gauges, and measuring instruments to perform inspection activities.
  • Capture and analyze production data to support quality metrics and departmental reporting.
  • Develop, update, and improve work instructions and quality procedures to support manufacturing processes.
  • Participate in corrective and preventive action (CAPA) activities and documentation as needed.
  • Support ISO Quality Management System requirements, including participation in internal audits.
  • Utilize and assist with the setup and maintenance of Statistical Process Control (SPC) reporting and monitoring.
  • Identify quality risks and improvement opportunities within manufacturing processes and support continuous improvement initiatives.

Our Requirements:
  • Minimum of 2 years of quality experience within a manufacturing environment.
  • Experience working within an ISO 9001 quality system environment.
  • Proficient in the use of quality inspection equipment, gauges, and measuring instruments.
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and specifications.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Proficient with Microsoft Office applications, including Excel and Word.
  • High School Diploma or GED required.
  • Ability to lift up to 33 pounds when needed.
  • Strong organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail.
  • Ability to utilize SPC tools and quality methodologies.
  • Must be authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship now or in the future.

Pay Rate: $22.00 - $24.00 hourly
At Durex Industries, we are not only anemployer, but also an advocate for equal opportunity and inclusivity. We arededicated to fostering a work environment that conforms to the higheststandards of hiring and is free from discrimination and harassment.
Durex Industries is an equalopportunity employer; Our commitment extends to all aspects of employment,ensuring that no individual is mistreated or discriminated against on the basisof race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability,genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic asdefined by federal, state, or local laws.