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Full Time First Article Inspector Jobs in Stratford, CT

Inspector 3/4

Ronkonkoma, NY · On-site

$66K - $111K/yr

Perform First Article Inspections. * Perform mathematical calculations to ensure compliance with inspection criteria. * Program and operate Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM), using PC-DMIS software ...

Quality Engineer

Danbury, CT

$73K - $94K/yr

Generate, review, and submit First Article Inspection Reports (FAIRs) in compliance with AS9102 requirements. * Serve as a technical quality resource during customer visits, source inspections, and ...

Quality Engineer

Danbury, CT

$73K - $94K/yr

Generate, review, and submit First Article Inspection Reports (FAIRs) in compliance with AS9102 requirements. * Serve as a technical quality resource during customer visits, source inspections, and ...

Manufacturing Quality Engineer I

Middlefield, CT · On-site

$72K - $93K/yr

Develop and maintain inspection programs, measurement methods, inspection plans, and First Article Inspection (FAI) documentation to ensure product conformance and process capability. * Support ...

... and 1st Article inspections 5. Perform In-Process random inspections 6. Perform process capability studies 7. Verify proper calibration and operation of all measuring equipment and meters and ...

... and 1st Article inspections 5. Perform In-Process random inspections 6. Perform process capability studies 7. Verify proper calibration and operation of all measuring equipment and meters and ...

Quality Technician

Waterbury, CT · On-site

$24 - $30/hr

Perform first-piece and first article inspections as requested. * Verify product conformance using calipers, micrometers, gauges, optical comparators, CMM reports, and other inspection equipment.

Senior CMM Programmer

Berlin, CT · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Champion First Article Inspections. * Support Gage calibration review, management, execution, and evaluation. * Establish standards for Gage Calibration. * Competency with materials testing chemistry ...

Machinist

Hauppauge, NY · On-site

$30 - $45/hr

Full dimensional inspections, including lengths, diameters, radii, finishes, and all positional and geometric requirements, both for First Article preparation and in process inspection. * Running ...

Full dimensional inspections, including lengths, diameters, radii, finishes, and all positional and geometric requirements, both for First Article preparation and in process inspection. * Running ...

Showing results 21-40

Full Time First Article Inspector information

See Stratford, CT salary details

$12

$28

$54

How much do full time first article inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for full time first article inspector in Stratford, CT is $28.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.18 and $32.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Full Time First Article Inspector vs Quality Control Inspector?

AspectFull Time First Article InspectorQuality Control Inspector
CertificationsOften requires inspection certifications, such as ASQ certificationsMay require general quality assurance or inspection certifications
Work EnvironmentPrimarily in manufacturing or production settings, focusing on initial product samplesIn various manufacturing environments, inspecting ongoing production
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in aerospace, automotive, and electronics industriesWidely used across multiple manufacturing sectors

The Full Time First Article Inspector specializes in inspecting initial product samples to ensure design compliance before mass production, often requiring specific certifications. In contrast, the Quality Control Inspector performs ongoing inspections throughout the manufacturing process to maintain quality standards. While both roles focus on quality assurance, the First Article Inspector emphasizes initial sample approval, whereas the Quality Control Inspector oversees ongoing production quality.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a full time first article inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Full Time First Article Inspector, you need a solid understanding of quality control procedures, blueprint reading, and precision measurement, often supported by experience in manufacturing or a related certification. Familiarity with inspection tools such as calipers, micrometers, CMMs, and quality management systems (QMS) is typically required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for accurate reporting and collaboration with production teams. These skills ensure that products meet stringent standards and regulatory requirements, minimizing defects and supporting overall manufacturing quality.

What are some common challenges faced by full time first article inspectors and how can they be addressed?

Full Time First Article Inspectors often encounter challenges such as interpreting complex engineering drawings, ensuring precise measurements, and managing tight production schedules. Effective communication with engineering and production teams is crucial to resolve discrepancies and clarify requirements. Staying organized and using up-to-date inspection tools can help manage workload and maintain accuracy. Proactive collaboration and ongoing training in quality standards are valuable for overcoming these challenges and excelling in this role.

What does a full time first article inspector do?

A Full Time First Article Inspector is responsible for conducting detailed inspections on the first manufactured item in a production run, known as the 'first article.' Their main job is to ensure that this initial product meets all required specifications, drawings, and quality standards before mass production begins. This process helps identify and correct any issues early, preventing costly mistakes and ensuring consistent product quality. Full Time First Article Inspectors often use measuring tools, review documentation, and work closely with engineering and production teams. Their work is crucial in industries like aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing where precision and compliance are vital.
What are the most commonly searched types of First Article Inspector jobs in Stratford, CT? The most popular types of First Article Inspector jobs in Stratford, CT are:
What job categories do people searching Full Time First Article Inspector jobs in Stratford, CT look for? The top searched job categories for Full Time First Article Inspector jobs in Stratford, CT are:
What cities near Stratford, CT are hiring for Full Time First Article Inspector jobs? Cities near Stratford, CT with the most Full Time First Article Inspector job openings:
Infographic showing various Full Time First Article Inspector job openings in Stratford, CT as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,921 per year, or $28.3 per hour.

$66K - $111K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 360 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

88th of 536 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: No relocation assistance availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: NoCLEARANCE TYPE: SecretTRAVEL: NoDescriptionAt Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.

Northrop Grumman Defense Systems is seeking an Inspector - level 3 or 4 to work in its Propulsion Systems & Control (PS&C) Business Unit, headquartered in Elkton, Maryland. The position will reside in our Ronkonkoma, New York location.

Job Description:

  • Use process control documents, inspection plans, and prescribed specifications to visually and dimensionally inspect in-process and completed components, subassemblies and assemblies.

  • Work from process documents, customer specifications, drawing or inspection instructions and checklists.

  • Perform mechanical or electrical inspections on manufactured/purchased components and assemblies.

  • Use various measuring devices such as calipers, micrometers, thickness gages, height gages, shore A & D hardness gages, and electronic measuring devices (Coordinate Measuring Machines).

  • Perform First Article Inspections.

  • Perform mathematical calculations to ensure compliance with inspection criteria.

  • Program and operate Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM), using PC-DMIS software, including development and maintenance of programs, set up and execution.

  • Create inspection reports as needed from drawings or inspection plans.

  • Be flexible in work skills and daily tasks assigned including availability to work overtime and weekends.

  • Maintain, calibrate, and document all tools and instruments used in inspections

  • Develop and implement a regular maintenance and calibration schedule

  • Independently manage day-to-day tasks and priorities, reporting regularly to management

The selected candidate will be hired to the level of demonstrated experience, education, and competency.

Basic Qualifications for level 3:

  • At least 4 years of experience and/or combination of additional education.

  • Ability to obtain a secret clearance, US citizenship is a prerequisite.

  • Experience in a manufacturing environment

  • Ability to program and operate Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMM) under guidance of qualified programmers using PC-DMIS.

  • Attention to detail.

  • Strong leadership, communication, organizational, and time management skills.

  • Self-motivated.

  • Proficient in Word, Excel and Outlook.

Basic Qualifications for level 4:

  • At least 6 years of experience and/or combination of additional education.

  • Ability to obtain a secret clearance, US citizenship is a prerequisite.

  • Experience in a manufacturing environment

  • Ability to independently program and operate Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMM) using PC-DMIS.

  • Attention to detail.

  • Strong leadership, communication, organizational, and time management skills.

  • Self-motivated.

  • Proficient in Word, Excel and Outlook.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Working knowledge of AS9100/ISO9001

  • Ability to obtain and maintain ATF Employee Possessor.

  • Background in GD&T.

  • IPC J-STD-001, 610/620 training or experience.

Primary Level Salary Range: $56,000.00 - $93,400.00Secondary Level Salary Range: $66,600.00 - $111,000.00The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939