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Freelance First Article Inspector Jobs in Chicago, IL

TekPro

QC Inspector, aerospace machining

Lombard, IL

$28 - $34/hr

Perform first article, in-process, and final inspections on precision-machined components. * Interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, specifications, and GD&T requirements to verify product ...

Fabmax Opco LLC

Quality Inspector

Wood Dale, IL · On-site

Responsibilities include preparing and completing First Article Inspection Reports (FAIRs) for customer submission, supporting final inspection activities, and providing backup coverage for the ...

Verify Inc.

Mechanical Inspector

Chicago, IL

$26 - $34.50/hr

Experience performing First Article Inspections (FAIs) in accordance to the Aerospace Standard (AS9102) and knowledge is required. * Ideal candidate will have a minimum of five years experience ...

Durex Industries

Quality Technician (1st shift)

Cary, IL

$18.25 - $24.50/hr

Thisrole is responsible for conducting product and raw material inspections,processing First Article Inspections (FAIs), maintaining quality documentation,and providing manufacturing feedback through ...

Verify

Mechanical Inspector

Chicago, IL

$26 - $34.50/hr

Experience performing First Article Inspections (FAIs) in accordance to the Aerospace Standard (AS9102) and knowledge is required. * Ideal candidate will have a minimum of five years experience ...

Verify

Mechanical Inspector

Chicago, IL

$26 - $34.50/hr

Experience performing First Article Inspections (FAIs) in accordance to the Aerospace Standard (AS9102) and knowledge is required. * Ideal candidate will have a minimum of five years experience ...

Actalent

Quality Inspector

Wheeling, IL

$23 - $27/hr

Exposure to or experience creating and performing First Article Inspection Reports (FAIRs). * Familiarity with PPAPs (Production Part Approval Process), PFMEA (Process Failure Mode and Effects ...

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Freelance First Article Inspector information

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$28

$53

How much do freelance first article inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance first article inspector in Chicago, IL is $28.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.09 and $32.45 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a first article inspector do?

A first article inspector reviews the initial sample of a product to ensure it meets design specifications, quality standards, and customer requirements. They examine dimensions, materials, and workmanship, often using measurement tools and inspection checklists, to approve or reject the first article before mass production begins.

Can you be a freelance home inspector?

A freelance home inspector can work independently by offering inspection services to clients, often requiring certification or licensing depending on local regulations. They typically perform property evaluations, assess structural and safety issues, and may need specialized tools and knowledge of building codes. Flexibility in scheduling is common, but maintaining professional standards and credentials is essential for credibility and legal compliance.

What is the difference between Freelance First Article Inspector vs Freelance Content Reviewer?

AspectFreelance First Article InspectorFreelance Content Reviewer
CredentialsBasic writing/editing skills, familiarity with content guidelinesStrong language skills, understanding of content policies
Work EnvironmentRemote, project-based, often with content platforms or publishersRemote, reviewing user-generated or publisher content
Industry UsageUsed in publishing, content creation, and editing sectorsCommon in social media, online platforms, and digital media

Both roles involve reviewing written content, but the First Article Inspector focuses on initial quality checks of new articles, while the Content Reviewer monitors ongoing content for compliance and quality. The main difference lies in the stage of content they handle and their specific responsibilities within the content creation process.

What is a freelance inspector?

A freelance first article inspector is a self-employed professional who reviews and evaluates the initial sample or prototype of a product to ensure it meets quality standards and specifications before mass production. They typically work independently, often using industry standards and inspection tools, and may need relevant certifications or experience in quality control. This role requires attention to detail and the ability to communicate findings effectively to clients or manufacturers.
What are the most commonly searched types of First Article Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of First Article Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Freelance First Article Inspector jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Freelance First Article Inspector job openings:
Freelance First Article Inspector jobs near you

First Article Intake (FAI) Specialist

Outform Group

Chicago, IL

$18.25 - $24.50/hr

Other

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

JOB SUMMARY

The First Article Intake Specialist is responsible for evaluating and approving first article samples and die strike components to ensure compliance with customer specifications, engineering drawings, quality standards, and manufacturing requirements. This role serves as a critical quality gate within the production process, verifying that tooling, materials, dimensions, finishes, and assembly methods meet all requirements before full-scale production is authorized.

DIRECT REPORTS

  • None

SCOPE & ACCOUNTABILITY

Maintain a strong focus on timeliness and quality, ensuring all first articles are approved in an efficient and timely manner to avoid any delays or negative impact on production schedules.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Review and approve first article samples prior to full production run
  • Verify dimensions, materials, finishes, colors, graphics, and assembly requirements against engineering drawings and customer specifications.
  • Identify non-conformances and coordinate corrective actions with production, engineering, and project teams.
  • Evaluate die strike samples to ensure accuracy of tooling and production readiness.
  • Verify cut lines, scoring, perforations, folds, and overall structural integrity.
  • Confirm die strikes align with approved artwork, specifications, and production requirements.
  • Approve or reject die strike samples and communicate required revisions.
  • Collaborate with internal teams to resolve issues
  • Attend all required Milestone meetings (M4/M5)

KEY INTERFACES (NON-REPORTING)

  • Manufacturing Manager
  • Finishing Manager
  • Director of Quality
  • Structural Design Manager
  • Production Project Managers
  • Design Team

KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

  • Complete first article inspections and approvals within 24 hours of sample receipt
  • Track and manage Idle Press Time Rate
  • Track and manage FAI Approval Rate

QUALIFICATIONS

  • High school diploma or equivalent; Associate degree preferred.
  • Direct experience in quality inspection, manufacturing, packaging, retail display production, printing, or related industries.
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and specifications.
  • Experience using precision measuring instruments such as calipers, rulers, gauges, and templates.
  • Strong organizational and documentation skills.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
  • Experience with retail displays, POP/POS manufacturing, corrugated packaging, or fixture production.
  • Knowledge of quality management systems and inspection methodologies.
  • Familiarity with die-cutting processes, tooling approvals, and first article inspection procedures.
  • Experience working in a fast-paced production environment.
  • Bilingual in English + Spanish preferred.

LEADERSHIP ATTRIBUTES & PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

  • Attention to Detail
  • Quality Focus
  • Technical Aptitude
  • Problem Solving
  • Communication Skills
  • Time Management
  • Process Improvement Mindset
  • Team Collaboration

#LI-Onsite

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Working conditions are in a normal office environment. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to walk, sit, and stand, using hands to handle, finger, or feel objects, tools, or controls. Occasionally, the employee must crouch or kneel. The employee must occasionally exert or lift up to 20 pounds. Successful performance requires good eyesight with or without corrective lenses. Requires long periods of time working at a computer and includes phone work.

DISCLAIMER

The above information has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification and may be amended at any time at the sole discretion of the Employer. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.


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