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Full Time First Article Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ensure supplier First Article Inspection Reports (FAIRs) completeness * Ensure completeness of CoC ... Position Type/Expected Hours of Work This is a full-time position at 40 hours per week. Typical ...

Mechanical Inspector

Santa Ana, CA

$26.25 - $34.75/hr

You use precision measurement tools, follow AS9102 First Article Inspection requirements, and apply geometric dimensioning and tolerancing principles to verify product quality and compliance.

New

Quality Inspector

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$23 - $27/hr

Experience with machined components in all phases of inspection, including receiving, first article, and final inspection. * At least 1 year of hands-on experience operating CMM equipment. * Proven ...

Quality Inspector

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$23 - $27/hr

Experience with machined components in all phases of inspection, including receiving, first article, and final inspection. * At least 1 year of hands-on experience operating CMM equipment. * Proven ...

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First Article Inspection (FAI) * * Conduct and document FAIs; complete First Article Reports using company/customer formats * Collect and verify objective evidence (measurements, certificates ...

Quality Inspector

Boulder, CO · On-site

$24 - $40/hr

Ensure supplier First Article Inspection Reports (FAIRs) completeness * Ensure completeness of CoC ... Position Type/Expected Hours of Work This is a full-time position at 40 hours per week. Typical ...

Quality Inspector

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$23 - $27/hr

Experience with machined components in all phases of inspection, including receiving, first article, and final inspection. * At least 1 year of hands-on experience operating CMM equipment. * Proven ...

Paid weekly Direct deposit Affordable healthcare options Full-time, stable work Career growth opportunities ABOUT THE ROLE The 1st Article Assembler is responsible for building first-time, complex ...

Technical Inspector

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$22 - $27/hr

Experience with machined components in all phases of inspection, including receiving, first article, and final inspection. * 1 year of hands-on experience operating CMM equipment. * Proven experience ...

Quality Inspector will perform in-process and 1st article inspections, evaluate part to print ... Enjet offers a comprehensive benefits package to full-time employees including paid time off ...

Mechanical Inspector- 1st Shift

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$24 - $32/hr

Collect measurement data for use in First Article Inspection (FAI) reports * Collect and provide data required for critical part Final Inspection Reports (FIRs) Qualifications: * 0-2 years ...

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Full Time First Article Inspector information

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$12

$27

$52

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

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for full time first article inspector in the United States is $27.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $31.49 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A Full Time First Article Inspector can potentially earn around $10,000 per month through experience and overtime, especially in industries like manufacturing or quality control. Success in this role depends on technical skills, attention to detail, and company pay structures, with some inspectors earning high wages without a college degree.

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 type of inspectors make the most money?

In general, inspectors with specialized skills, certifications, or experience in high-demand industries such as aerospace, oil and gas, or manufacturing tend to earn higher salaries. Full Time First Article Inspectors who have advanced training or work in complex environments may also command higher pay compared to entry-level inspectors. Salary often depends on industry, location, and level of expertise.

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 does a first article inspector do?

A first article inspector reviews and verifies the initial production sample of a part or product to ensure it meets design specifications, quality standards, and customer requirements. They perform detailed inspections, document findings, and may use measurement tools or inspection equipment as part of their quality control process.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

High-paying roles for a Full Time First Article Inspector are uncommon, as the position typically offers salaries below $200,000 annually. Most jobs paying $500,000 or more are executive, specialized medical, or high-level corporate roles that require extensive experience, advanced skills, or ownership stakes. Achieving such income levels generally involves senior management, entrepreneurship, or highly specialized professions rather than inspection roles.
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What states have the most Full Time First Article Inspector jobs? States with the most job openings for Full Time First Article Inspector jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Full Time First Article Inspector jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Full Time First Article Inspector jobs are:
Quality Inspector

$24 - $40/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Summary

We are seeking a detail-oriented Quality Inspector to support inspection, documentation, and quality assurance activities for advanced aerospace and RF products. In this role, you will perform receiving inspection of incoming materials, in-process quality checks on production builds, and final visual inspections to ensure all components meet drawing, certification, and procedural requirements. The position also supports nonconformance reporting, MRB activities, RMA inspections, and accurate archival of all quality records.

Key Responsibilities

  • Receiving Inspection (RI) of incoming components, sub-assemblies, PCBs, and PCBAs
  • Ensure supplier First Article Inspection Reports (FAIRs) completeness
  • Ensure completeness of CoC’s and material certifications per drawing
  • Visual inspection of products
  • Basic Dimensional inspection
  • In-process Quality Assurance (IPQA) of production builds
  • Review Detailed Process Procedure (DPP) work instructions
  • Validate assembly and testing operations per DPP & Job Travelers
  • Final Visual Inspection and ensure completeness of build documentation
  • Prepare AS9102 First Article Inspection Reports (FAIRs)
  • Interact with customer during Source Inspection
  • Archive and scan all applicable build documentation and records
  • Take photos of defects, initiate NCRs, tag and segregate Non-Conforming products
  • Inspection of RMAs
  • Reports findings, participate in MRB
  • Prepare delivery documentation
  • Fill-out applicable forms
  • Cross-functional training as needed
  • Support QA/PA Manager & Quality team

Required Education and Experience

  • Must have U.S. citizenship and ability to obtain a U.S. Security Clearance
  • Reside in Colorado
  • High school diploma or GED, or equivalent
  • Three years of experience with ISO9001 or AS9100 company, or equivalent
  • Interpret mechanical drawings, GD&T
  • Interpret basic electrical drawings
  • Intermediate knowledge of Microsoft Office
  • Clear oral and written communication
  • Ability to follow procedures and standards
  • Visual inspection using microscopes
  • Experience with calipers, micrometers, height stands, and pin and thread gauges
  • Work effectively in a team environment
  • Ability to learn and be trained quickly

Preferred Education and Experience

  • AS9102 First Article Inspection Report
  • CMM, optical comparator, smart scope
  • Certified IPC-A-600, IPC-A-610
  • Internal audits
  • Technical writing
  • Trained in GD&T

Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Supervisory Responsibility

This position has no direct supervisory responsibilities.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work

This is a full-time position at 40 hours per week. Typical office hours include Monday-Thursday, 6:30am-5:00pm or 12:00pm-10:00pm, however these hours will vary based on workload and the manager’s discretion. This job may require more than 40 hours of work per week as the need arises. 

Travel

No travel is expected for this position.

Work Environment

This job operates in a professional office environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as laptop computers and photocopiers.

Physical Demands

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and ability to adjust focus. This would require the ability to lift files, open filing cabinets, and bend or stand on a stool as necessary. The employee will also regularly be seated at a desk and using a computer. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

About FIRST RF

FIRST RF is a fast-growing, multi-discipline, privately owned small business focused on engineering and manufacturing of advanced technologies - specifically in antennas and radio frequency (RF) systems. We are an energetic team empowered with world-class facilities and resources. We promote a culture which prioritizes innovation and responsiveness.  By making bold investments in the development of groundbreaking technologies, FIRST RF has fielded award-winning products ranging from revolutionary passive antennas to highly complex, active antenna systems.

Benefits Summary

We offer all employees four weeks of PTO each year, flexible scheduling, hybrid work, tuition reimbursement, up to 6% 401(k) match, and healthcare, dental, and vision plans.

AAP/EEO Statement

We are an Equal Employment Opportunity employer committed to providing equal opportunity in all of our employment practices, including selection, hiring, assignment, re-assignment, promotion, transfer, compensation, discipline, and termination. The Company prohibits discrimination, harassment, and retaliation in employment based on race; color; religion; genetic information; national origin; sex (including same sex); sexual orientation; gender identity; pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; age; disability or handicap; citizenship status; service member status; or any other category protected by federal, state, or local law.  We support protected veterans and individuals with disabilities through our affirmative action program.


First Rf logo

About First Rf

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Boulder, CO, US

Year founded

2003