1

First Article Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Conduct first article inspections, inprocess inspections, and apply "viewed quality" standards throughout production. * Safely operate department machinery and supporting equipment, including ...

Quality Specialist

Chaska, MN · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Complete First Article Inspections and documentation per AS9102 requirements * Review and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, tolerances, and GD&T requirements * Calibrate, certify ...

CNC Operator

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

Conduct first article inspections, in-process inspections, and apply "viewed quality" standards throughout production. * Safely operate department machinery and supporting equipment, including ...

Understands and practices and applies the process of first article inspection. * Understands and practices and applies the process of "viewed quality" and "in process inspection". * Understands the ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

First Article information

See Minnesota salary details

$18

$47

$76

How much do first article jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for first article in Minnesota is $47.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37.45 and $54.38 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 Minnesota look for?

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

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for First Article jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most First Article job openings:

Infographic showing various First Article job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,891 per year, or $47.5 per hour.

$22 - $32/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Inspection and Measurement Responsibilities

  • Perform and prepare reports for mechanical inspections on plastic, machined metal and assemblies per customer and Donatelle specifications
  • Recommend and develop inspection methods using manual, vision and automated inspection precision metrology equipment
  • Perform and prepare reports for first article, capability studies and gage R & R studies
  • Read and interpret customer specifications and blueprints containing both linear and geometrically toleranced features
  • Assist with delegating inspection related tasks (Gage R&R, capability studies) to Quality Inspectors and Quality Technicians

General Responsibilities

  • Responsibility to protect Donatelle confidential information and Intellectual Property
  • Follow safety requirements as outlined in the safety manual
  • 10-15% travel to St. Louis Park facility may be required
  • Perform other projects and duties as assigned

Preferred Qualifications:                                                                                                                                              

Education/Experience:

  • Two year technical degree preferred
  • Minimum of 3 years experience in mechanical inspection of injection molded and machined components

Other Qualifications and Desired Skills:

  • ASQ Certified Mechanical Inspector certificate
  • Training in basic statistics preferred
  • Training in Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing
  • Ability to read and interpret blue prints and specifications
  • General computer skills including MS Excel and MS Word

Additional information:

  • 2nd shift position, hours are from 3:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., there is a shift differential for 2nd shift
  • Hourly wage range: $22 to $32
  • Company benefits include, medical, dental, vision, 401k, PTO, holiday pay, and more

EXPERIENCE, SKILLS, EDUCATION AND TRAINING:

  • A completed 2-year vocational inspection program or equivalent on the job experience
  • Course work in inspection , gauging and blueprint reading
  • Exposure to injection molding in any capacity
  • Working knowledge of mechanical inspection equipment, including Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM)