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First Article Jobs in Minneapolis, MN (NOW HIRING)

$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 ...

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 ...

CNC Machinist

New Brighton, MN ยท 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 ...

CNC Operator

Osseo, MN ยท 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 ...

Machine Operator 1 - Weekend Shift AM

Hamel, MN

$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 ...

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 ...

Quality Inspector

Chanhassen, MN ยท On-site

$21 - $26/hr

To facilitate knowledge and understanding of the Roberts quality system by; assists all employees in meeting its requirements, performing First Article, in-process and final inspections of products ...

Quality Technician

Chaska, MN ยท On-site

$19.25 - $26/hr

Create bubbled engineering drawings, First Article Inspection (FAI) documents. * Assign Metrology equipment to Work Order for improved traceability. * Ability to conduct Gage Repeatability amp;

Requires performing intricate First Article inspections on a wide variety of parts and may involve castings, molds and assemblies. * They initiate rejection reports for non-conforming materials and ...

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First Article information

See Minneapolis, MN salary details

$19

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$82

How much do first article jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for first article in Minneapolis, MN is $50.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39.90 and $57.98 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 Minneapolis, MN look for?

The top searched job categories for First Article jobs in Minneapolis, MN are:

Infographic showing various First Article job openings in Minneapolis, MN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $105,392 per year, or $50.7 per hour.

First Article Inspector

SPECTRUM PLASTICS MASTER

New Brighton, MN โ€ข On-site

$22 - $32/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 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)