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First Article Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Spectrum Plastics Group

$28 - $32/hr

Responsible for leading and mentoring Quality Inspection teams to ensure effective in-process and first article inspection, statistical applications of new product development projects, while ...

Verterra Energy

CNC Machinist

New Brighton, MN

$21.75 - $29.50/hr

You will be the person we trust to take a part from print to first article - planning the job, setting up the machine, dialing it in, cutting chips, and walking the part out the door verified and ...

Verterra Energy

CNC Machinist

New Brighton, MN · On-site

$21.75 - $29.50/hr

You will be the person we trust to take a part from print to first article - planning the job, setting up the machine, dialing it in, cutting chips, and walking the part out the door verified and ...

Aerotek

Quality Inspector

Maple Grove, MN

$23 - $28/hr

The position also involves writing first article inspections and training to operate a Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) to support high-quality production. Responsibilities * Perform in-process ...

Lakeland Companies

Press Brake Operator

Glencoe, MN · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

Perform first article, last article, and other quality checks as required * Ensure all parts are properly marked and labeled * Identify quality issues that may arise and direct them to the supervisor ...

Lakeland Companies

Press Brake Operator

Glencoe, MN · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

Perform first article, last article, and other quality checks as required * Ensure all parts are properly marked and labeled * Identify quality issues that may arise and direct them to the supervisor ...

Randstad

CNC Mill Operator

Osseo, MN · On-site

$50K - $65K/yr

Perform detailed initial, in-process, and first-article inspections (FAI) using precision hand tools (micrometers, calipers, height gauges, bore gauges) and CMM reports to maintain tight aerospace ...

C-Axis

Machine Operator 1 - Weekend Shift AM

Hamel, MN · On-site

$18.25 - $22.25/hr

Completes 1st article and in process inspection * May fit and assemble parts into complete assembly * Uses hand tools, grinders, scotch brite and other special deburring tools to remove sharp edges ...

C-Axis

Machine Operator 1 - Weekend PM Shift

Hamel, MN · On-site

$18.25 - $22/hr

Completes 1st article and in process inspection * May fit and assemble parts into complete assembly * Uses hand tools, grinders, scotch brite and other special deburring tools to remove sharp edges ...

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All JobsFirst Article JobsFirst Article Jobs in Minnesota

First Article information

See Minnesota 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 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 are popular job titles related to First Article jobs in Minnesota?

For First Article jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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What cities in Minnesota are hiring for First Article jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most First Article job openings:

First Article jobs near you
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.

First Article Inspector

Spectrum Plastics Group

New Brighton, MN • On-site

$22 - $32/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 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)

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