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Professional First Article Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Freudenberg

First Article Inspector

Baldwin Park, CA

$28/hr

The incumbent is responsible for conducting first article inspections, programming and operating metrology equipment, and generating data that supports product development, process validation, and ...

New

AppleOne

First Article Inspector III

Valencia, CA

$52/hr

This role is ideal for a skilled inspection and metrology professional who is confident working ... The First Article Inspector III will play a key role in supporting quality, manufacturing, and ...

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Motive Companies

First Article Inspectors

Carson, CA · On-site

$38 - $48/hr

First Article Inspector Would you like to elevate aerospace manufacturing through smarter, data-driven quality systems giving you the opportunity to make a direct, measurable impact on mission ...

Motive Companies

First Article Inspectors

Carson, CA

$38 - $48/hr

First Article Inspector Would you like to elevate aerospace manufacturing through smarter, data-driven quality systems giving you the opportunity to make a direct, measurable impact on mission ...

B&B Manufacturing

First Article Inspector III

Valencia, CA · On-site

$30 - $52.68/hr

Responsible for performing advanced First Article Inspections, developing and implementing complex inspection methods, and supporting CMM programming activities. This position demonstrates strong ...

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

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for professional 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.

How much do SpaceX quality inspector make?

A Professional First Article Inspector at SpaceX typically earns between $60,000 and $90,000 annually, depending on experience and location. The role involves inspecting parts and assemblies, often requiring knowledge of quality standards and inspection tools such as CMMs and calipers.

What kind of inspectors make the most money?

Senior quality inspectors, such as those in aerospace, manufacturing, or oil and gas industries, tend to earn the highest salaries. Specialized inspectors with certifications like ASQ or API and extensive experience often command higher pay. First Article Inspectors with advanced skills or supervisory roles can also earn more in high-demand sectors.

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

High-paying jobs that can reach or exceed $500,000 annually include executive roles such as CEOs, CFOs, and other C-suite positions, as well as specialized professions like certain surgeons, anesthesiologists, and successful entrepreneurs. These roles typically require advanced education, extensive experience, leadership skills, and often involve high levels of responsibility and performance-based bonuses.

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

AspectProfessional First Article InspectorQuality Control Inspector
CertificationsOften holds certifications like ASQ CQI or specific industry standardsMay have general quality assurance certifications or on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentPrimarily in manufacturing, aerospace, or automotive industries inspecting new parts or prototypesWorks across various industries inspecting ongoing production for defects
Job FocusFocuses on initial production runs, verifying compliance of first articlesMonitors ongoing production quality and consistency

Professional First Article Inspectors specialize in verifying the quality of initial production samples, ensuring they meet specifications before full-scale manufacturing. Quality Control Inspectors oversee ongoing production quality, identifying defects and ensuring standards are maintained. While both roles involve inspection and quality assurance, the First Article Inspector's role is more focused on initial validation, whereas the Quality Control Inspector maintains quality throughout production.

What does a first article inspector do?

A first article inspector reviews and approves the initial sample or prototype of a product to ensure it meets design specifications, quality standards, and customer requirements. They perform detailed inspections, often using measurement tools and quality control procedures, and document findings before production begins.
More about Professional First Article Inspector jobs
What cities are hiring for Professional First Article Inspector jobs? Cities with the most Professional First Article Inspector job openings:
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Professional First Article Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Professional First Article Inspector job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 8% Locum Tenens, 64% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 78% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 21% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,905 per year, or $27.4 per hour.

First Article Inspector

PTR Tool and Plastics

Meadville, PA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Job Title: First Article Inspector

Department: Quality

Reports to: Quality Manager


Summary

Responsible for assuring the First Article Inspections are completed on-time and are producing desired results according to customer specified requirements and customer provided drawings. Responsible for assembling PPAP packages.

Relationships: Please see PTR's Organizational Chart included in you new hire paperwork for specific relationships.

Authority: This individual has authority over no other employee but may ask others within their department to help them with tasks. Please see PTR's organizational chart for more detailed information.

Essential Functions:

  • Provide technical and process support to engineering, manufacturing, sales and purchasing groups.
  • First Article Inspection of plastic components.
  • Creation of reports from First Article Inspection according to customer specific requirements.
  • Operation and/or programming of CMM equipment ( Hexagon Measuring Machine; PC DMIS Software).
  • Annual validations of all production parts according to Customer Specific requirements.
  • Assist with corrective and preventive actions.
  • Hands on interaction with manufacturing process control activities.
  • Assist in creating and revising controlled forms.
  • Assist with the measurements of in-process critical dimensions.
  • PPAP package preparation
  • Other duties as assigned by Quality Manager.
  • Arriving at work on time for every scheduled shift.
  • Maintain a clean and safe work area at all times

** other projects and responsibilities may be added at the company's discretion.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • 1 year of metrology experience or equivalent
  • Ability to interpret part drawings and tolerances.
  • Knowledge and use of Various inspection tools such as micrometers and calipers
  • Some knowledge of ISO or IAFT 16949
  • PPAP knwledge
  • Knowledge of SPC and calibration systems
  • Plastic Mold Injection industry and testing experience desirable
  • Knowledge of PC DMIS Software.
  • Detail oriented.
  • Must be able to work independently; some decision makin skills may be required
  • PC Skilss (MS Office suite- word, excel, ect.)