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Inspection Authorization Jobs (NOW HIRING)

FAA Airframe & Powerplant License including inspection authorization is preferred. Experience: * 3 years of experience as a Quality Inspector in an aviation company or military aviation equivalent ...

FAA Airframe & Powerplant License including inspection authorization is preferred. Experience: * 3 years of experience as a Quality Inspector in an aviation company or military aviation equivalent ...

Final Inspection / authorization to ship product. * May assist in Incoming Inspection. * Performs equipment calibration per schedule. * Maintains an organized work area. * Perform other tasks as ...

Quality Inspector

Buffalo, MN · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

Final Inspection / authorization to ship product. * May assist in Incoming Inspection. * Performs equipment calibration per schedule. * Maintains an organized work area. * Perform other tasks as ...

Quality Inspector

Buffalo, MN · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

Final Inspection / authorization to ship product. * May assist in Incoming Inspection. * Performs equipment calibration per schedule. * Maintains an organized work area. * Perform other tasks as ...

Chief Inspector - Quality

NY · On-site

$120K - $175K/yr

... inspection authorization he/she coordinates with the Repair Station Accountable Manager for final determination or investigation. * 10% Acts as primary liaison with the Federal Aviation ...

New

A Valid FAA Inspection Authorization (IA). If no IA, shall have a minimum of five (5) years as an inspector on the MDS (UH60) assigned. * Must be able to obtain and maintain facility credentials ...

JMA Inspector

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$28 - $45/hr

FAA Inspection Authorization (IA) preferred. * FCC GROL License preferred. * Abaris composite training or equivalent preferred. Physical Demands & Work Environment: * Benefits: * Eligibility for our ...

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Inspection Authorization information

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$13

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How much do inspection authorization jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for inspection authorization in the United States is $22.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $25.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals with Inspection Authorization (IA) in the aviation industry?

Inspection Authorization holders often encounter the challenge of staying current with ever-evolving FAA regulations and ensuring meticulous compliance during inspections. The role requires detailed documentation, critical decision-making, and sometimes working under tight deadlines, especially when aircraft need a quick turnaround. Additionally, IA professionals frequently collaborate with maintenance technicians and management to resolve complex airworthiness issues, making strong communication skills important. Keeping up with recurrent training and regulatory updates is essential for maintaining the authorization and delivering safe, high-quality oversight.

How do I become an FAA inspector?

To become an FAA inspector, candidates typically need a combination of relevant aviation experience, such as pilot or maintenance background, and must meet specific FAA requirements including age, background checks, and medical certification. Applicants usually apply through the FAA's employment portal and may need to pass written exams, interviews, and practical assessments related to aviation safety and regulations.

What is the difference between Inspection Authorization vs Aircraft Maintenance Technician?

AspectInspection AuthorizationAircraft Maintenance Technician
Required CredentialsFAA Inspection Authorization (IA) certificationFAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certificate
Work EnvironmentAuthorized to perform and approve inspections on aircraftPerforms maintenance, repairs, and inspections on aircraft
Employer & Industry UsageAircraft repair stations, airlines, and maintenance facilitiesMaintenance shops, airlines, and repair stations

Inspection Authorization (IA) is a certification that allows an individual to perform and approve major aircraft inspections, while an Aircraft Maintenance Technician (A&P) holds a certification to perform general maintenance and repairs. The IA credential is typically held by experienced A&P technicians who have additional qualifications. Both roles are essential in the aviation industry, but the IA specifically authorizes the holder to approve aircraft for return to service after inspections.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Inspection Authorization (IA), and why are they important?

To thrive as an Inspection Authorization (IA) in aviation, you need an Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certificate, additional FAA IA certification, in-depth knowledge of aircraft systems, and a strong understanding of regulatory compliance. Familiarity with aviation maintenance documentation, logbook entries, and compliance-tracking software is essential. Strong attention to detail, integrity, and effective communication help ensure accurate inspections and clear reporting. These skills and qualifications are crucial to guarantee aircraft safety, regulatory adherence, and operational reliability.

How much does an inspection authorization make?

An Inspection Authorization (IA) typically earns between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. IAs are experienced mechanics authorized to perform aircraft inspections, often working full-time in maintenance environments and requiring certification from the FAA or relevant authority.

Can you make 300k as an A&P mechanic?

An Inspection Authorization (IA) certified A&P mechanic can potentially earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills, and working in high-demand or supervisory roles. However, typical salaries range from $60,000 to $100,000, and reaching higher income levels often involves overtime, management positions, or owning a business.

What is an inspection authorization?

An inspection authorization is a certification that allows qualified individuals to perform safety and compliance inspections on aircraft or other equipment. It typically requires specific training, experience, and passing relevant exams to ensure proper assessment and adherence to regulations.

What is an Inspection Authorization (IA) in aviation?

An Inspection Authorization (IA) is a special certification granted by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to experienced and qualified Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) mechanics. This authorization allows the holder to perform and approve major repairs, major alterations, and conduct annual inspections of aircraft. IAs are responsible for ensuring that aircraft meet all safety and regulatory standards before returning them to service. To obtain an IA, mechanics must meet specific experience requirements, pass a written exam, and renew their authorization periodically. This certification enhances a mechanic's career by allowing them to take on greater responsibilities and specialized tasks in aircraft maintenance.
More about Inspection Authorization jobs
What cities are hiring for Inspection Authorization jobs? Cities with the most Inspection Authorization job openings:
What states have the most Inspection Authorization jobs? States with the most job openings for Inspection Authorization jobs include:
Infographic showing various Inspection Authorization job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,496 per year, or $22.8 per hour.
DoD SkillBridge: Quality Inspector

DoD SkillBridge: Quality Inspector

Airbus

Kinston, NC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 15 days ago


Airbus rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 50 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

34th of 63 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Airbus is committed to providing reasonable accommodations as an Equal Opportunity Employer to applicants with disabilities. If you require assistance or an accommodation to complete your application, please contact us at USCareers@airbus.com
  • Notice: Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal
  • Notice: Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination (English)
  • Aviso: Transparencia en el Pago No Discriminacion (Spanish)

Job Description:
Airbus Aerosystems Kinston is looking for a Quality Inspector to join our team in Kinston, NC.
Airbus is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner (per DoDI 1322.29). This 180-day program allows transitioning service members to leverage their military technical expertise in a high-precision aerospace environment.
SkillBridge Eligibility:
  • Active-duty service member within 180 days of separation.
  • Written Commander (O-4 or above) authorization.
  • Must have current work authorization for U.S. positions.

Meet the Team:
Our team at Airbus Aerosystems Kinston manufactures crucial aircraft components. On the shop floor you'll be surrounded by individuals who are passionate about aviation and skilled in areas like electrical, structure and quality. Join our team and help build the next generation of aircraft.
Your Working Environment:
The Airbus Aerosystems Kinston facility sits at the forefront of aerospace manufacturing, specializing in the production of large, advanced composite aerostructures. Our team builds critical components for the state-of-the-art Airbus A350 XWB, including the composite center fuselage and wing spar.
Your Challenges:
  • Uses predetermined methods, operations, setups, and prescribed specifications to visually inspect in-process and completed products, such as electronic units and subsystems, precision electromechanical/mechanical assemblies, and subassemblies, for structural flaws, internal defects, and missing welds.
  • Utilizes various measuring devices.
  • Accepts or rejects defective or malfunctioning units or systems.
  • Works from blueprints, diagrams, dial indicators, preset micrometers, scales, fixtures, customer specifications, drawing or inspection instructions, and checklists.
  • May monitor and verify quality in accordance with statistical process or other control procedures.
  • Performs line clearances after each lot to ensure all materials from the previous lot have been removed.
  • The Company will provide appropriate assistance in job training to enable employees to perform all necessary job functions including the following:
    • Working from drawings/CATIA, documents, process specifications, quality control requirements, software programs, and test procedures, perform any inspection of parts and assemblies including processes and materials.
    • Dimensionally inspect parts or assemblies.
    • Initiate and document any non-conforming materials, hardware, software, tools, parts, assemblies or portions thereof, according to specifications, processes and procedures.
    • Inspect vendor, subcontractor or company parts and assemblies.
    • Follows a pre-determined sequence of own work.
    • Prepare and maintain Quality records.
    • Support the continuous flow of product within the manufacturing process by cross training and assisting other employees including cross-training in the Assembly Technician function or functions supported.
  • In addition, each employee may be asked, on occasion, to complete other duties and responsibilities as required by leadership. Training and certification will be provided for the additional work when required.

Your Boarding Pass:
  • Must be willing and able to work any shift.
  • High School Diploma/GED
  • FAA Airframe & Powerplant License including inspection authorization is preferred.

Experience:
  • 3 years of experience as a Quality Inspector in an aviation company or military aviation equivalent with an emphasis on mechanical and/or structural components and assemblies.
  • Previous experience in a mechanic or technician role is highly desirable
  • Airline or military aviation experience is desirable

Knowledge, Skills, Demonstrated Capabilities:
  • Knowledge of Quality Management Systems.
  • Knowledge of drawing systems, inspection plans, and inspection coordination.
  • Knowledge of the principles, practices, methods and tools used in the production line.
  • Handling and use of inspection tools of the length measuring techniques (mechanical, optical, electrical)

Physical Requirements:
  • Onsite
  • Vision: Daily able to see and read computer screen and other electronic equipment with screens, able to read documents, reports and engineering drawings.
  • Hearing: Daily able to hear to participate in conversations in person and via teleconference or phone and to hear sounds on production floor including safety warnings or alarms.
  • Speaking: Daily able to speak in conversations and meetings, deliver information and participate in communications.
  • Equipment Operation (personal computer, telephone, copies, fax machine, and related office equipment and using electronic identification card to enter building floors and internal doors): Daily able to operate most office and personal electronic equipment and some tools including production tools such as hydraulic lifts.
  • Carrying: Several times a week able to carry documents, tools, drawings, electronic equipment up to 30lbs/14kgs.
  • Lifting: Several times a week able to lift documents, tools, drawings, electronic equipment up to 30lbs/14kgs.
  • Pushing / Pulling: Several times a week able to push and pull small office furniture and some equipment and tools.
  • Sitting: Daily able to sit for long periods of time in meetings, working on computer.
  • Squatting / Kneeling: Several times a month able to squat or kneel to retrieve or replace items stored on low shelving.
  • Standing: Daily able to stand for discussions in offices or on production floor.
  • Walking (include routine walking such as to a shared printer to retrieve documents) and able to walk through office and production areas including uneven surfaces.
  • Personal Protective Equipment required: Required PPE includes, but is not limited to Safety Shoes, Safety Glasses, Hearing Protection, Respirators/Masks. Protective Gloves.
  • Walking: able to walk through office and production areas, around flightline and airstrips and sometimes on uneven indoor and/or outdoor surfaces.
  • Heights: able to function at heights up to 40 feet. Able to operate moving platforms, hydraulic lifts and forklifts.

Mandatory Disclaimer:
SkillBridge participants continue to receive military pay and benefits from the DoD. No salary or financial compensation is provided by Airbus during the program.
Career Transition Pathway
Upon successful completion of the program and military separation, candidates may be considered for a permanent position. Full-time benefits include competitive base salaries, incentive compensation, a retirement savings plan, and comprehensive health and welfare coverage.
Targeted Military Backgrounds:
Quality Assurance (QA) Inspector, Aircraft Maintenance Manager, Quality Assurance Representative (QAR), Collateral Duty Inspector (CDI), CDQAR, Aviation Quality Assurance Representative, Inspector Aviation Maintenance, Technical Inspector (TI), Production Control, Quality Assurance Inspector, Flight Mechanic (QC authorized)
(Air Force 21AX / 2AXXX, Navy AT / AE / AD / AM / AZ, Army15Z / 15K / 15L, Marine Corps 6018 / 6012 / 6017, Coast Guard AET / AMT / AD)
Take your career to a new level and apply online now!
A full job description will be provided to candidates who progress to the interview stage or any candidate upon request.
This job requires an awareness of any potential compliance risks and a commitment to act with integrity, as the foundation for the Company's success, reputation and sustainable growth.
Company:
Airbus Aerosystems Kinston, Inc
Employment Type:
Agency / Temporary
Experience Level:
Entry Level
Remote Type:
Job Family:
Quality Inspection
Airbus provides equal opportunities to all individuals seeking assignment with Airbus without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetics, pregnancy, marital status, veteran status or other legally protected status. In addition to federal law requirements, Airbus complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in every location in which the company has facilities. Airbus expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetics, pregnancy, marital status, veteran status or other legally protected status. This assignment description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment.
By submitting your CV or application you are consenting to Airbus using and storing information about you for monitoring purposes relating to your application or future employment. This information will only be used by Airbus.
Airbus is committed to achieving workforce diversity and creating an inclusive working environment. We welcome all applications irrespective of social and cultural background, age, gender, disability, sexual orientation or religious belief.
Airbus is, and always has been, committed to equal opportunities for all. As such, we will never ask for any type of monetary exchange in the frame of a recruitment process. Any impersonation of Airbus to do so should be reported to emsom@airbus.com.

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