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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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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Support first-article inspections and prepare required quality documentation. * Work with manufacturing and engineering to reduce scrap, rework, and recurring defects. * Manage nonconforming material ...

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 ...

First Article Inspection * Responsible for creation of nonconformance documentation (NCRs) when discrepancies are detected at any inspection stage. Removal of the discrepant material from the ...

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 Aug 17, 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 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 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 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, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,842 per year, or $47 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

CMM Programmer 
Rockford, IL
Full Time – M-F (5 AM – 2:30 PM)
Summary:
Experienced CMM Programmer with a combination of technical, metrology, GD&T, and manufacturing knowledge.
Responsibilities:
  • Develop and validate CMM inspection programs.
  • Perform first article, in-process, and final inspections.
  • Generate dimensional inspection reports.
  • Troubleshoot CMM programs and measurement issues.
  • Validate fixture and probing strategies.
  • Assist engineering with tolerance analysis and measurement methods.
  • Maintain CMM calibration records and ensure equipment readiness.
  • Collaborate with manufacturing and quality teams to resolve dimensional issues.
  • Continuously improve inspection methods and reduce inspection cycle time.

Technical Qualifications:
  • 3–5 years of experience programming and operating CMMs
  • Experience with CMM software such as:
    • PC-DMIS
  • Experience with CMM brands such as:   
    • Hexagon
    • Brown & Sharpe
  • Ability to create CMM programs from engineering drawings and CAD models
  • Experience with offline programming
  • Knowledge of CAD software (SolidWorks, AutoCAD)
  • Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) Knowledge required
  • Advanced understanding of ASME Y14.5 GD&T
  • Blueprint Reading
    • Interpret complex engineering drawings
    • Read geometric tolerances
  • Metrology Skills
    • Proficient with: Micrometers, Calipers, Height gages, Surface plates, Pin gages, Thread gages, Measurement uncertainty, MSA (Measurement System Analysis), Gage R&R, Calibration practices
  • Manufacturing Knowledge
  • Understanding of stamping
  • Knowledge of inspection planning
  • Experience with first article inspections (FAI)
  • PPAP experience
  • ISIR experience
  • Quality Systems
    • IATF 16949
    • ISO 9001
  • Computer Skills

Education
  • Bachelors or Associate degree in Manufacturing Technology, Mechanical Engineering Technology, Quality Assurance, or related field (preferred)
  • Technical training in metrology or precision measurement