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Vehicle Inspector Jobs in Tucson, AZ (NOW HIRING)

As a First Article Inspector, you'll play a vital role on the Operations Quality team, independently verifying that complex aerospace assemblies meet engineering requirements, customer specifications ...

As a First Article Inspector, you'll play a vital role on the Operations Quality team, independently verifying that complex aerospace assemblies meet engineering requirements, customer specifications ...

Quality Inspector I - Where Precision Meets Product Tucson, AZ (Onsite) | Aerospace & Avionics 9/80 Schedule Available - Every Other Friday Off At Universal Avionics, the work done on our production ...

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Vehicle Inspector information

See Tucson, AZ salary details

$12

$18

$25

How much do vehicle inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for vehicle inspector in Tucson, AZ is $18.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.77 and $20.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a vehicle inspector?

Vehicle inspectors are professionals responsible for examining cars, trucks, and other vehicles to ensure they meet safety and emissions standards. They check various components such as brakes, lights, tires, and structural integrity, looking for defects or issues that could affect the vehicle’s performance or safety. Vehicle inspectors may work at government agencies, inspection stations, or automotive repair shops, and their evaluations help maintain road safety and environmental compliance.

What does a vehicle inspector do?

A vehicle inspector is responsible for ensuring a car, truck, motorcycle, or other motor vehicle meets all industry regulations. As a vehicle inspector, you may check emissions, verify that the owner’s auto insurance is valid, check for wear and tear, review the title for accuracy, gather information needed to register, and complete documentation on your findings. If a car does not pass inspection, you provide recommendations on what to address. In the case of an accident, you inspect for damage, report where repair is needed, and consult for total vehicle safety. You also assist with preventative maintenance, oil changes, and system checks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a vehicle inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Vehicle Inspector, you need a solid understanding of automotive systems, attention to detail, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, sometimes supplemented by relevant certifications. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, inspection checklists, and vehicle emissions or safety testing equipment is commonly required. Strong observational skills, integrity, and effective communication help inspectors interact with customers and report findings accurately. These abilities ensure vehicles meet safety and regulatory standards, protecting both drivers and the public.

What are some common challenges faced by vehicle inspectors during inspections, and how can they be managed?

Vehicle inspectors often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, identifying subtle or hidden defects, and keeping up with evolving safety regulations. Managing these challenges involves staying current with industry training, using specialized diagnostic tools, and maintaining strong attention to detail. Effective communication with vehicle owners and other team members is also essential for addressing issues found during inspections and ensuring all standards are met.

What is the difference between Vehicle Inspector vs Vehicle Technician?

AspectVehicle InspectorVehicle Technician
CertificationsVehicle inspection certifications, DMV or state-specific licensesASE certifications, automotive repair licenses
Work EnvironmentInspection stations, government agencies, vehicle testing facilitiesAuto repair shops, dealerships, service centers
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, vehicle inspection companiesPrivate auto repair shops, dealerships, fleet services

Vehicle Inspectors primarily focus on assessing vehicle safety and compliance through inspections, often working for government agencies or inspection companies. Vehicle Technicians diagnose and repair vehicle issues in repair shops or dealerships. While both roles require automotive knowledge and certifications, Vehicle Inspectors concentrate on inspection standards, whereas Vehicle Technicians perform repairs and maintenance.

How much do vehicle inspectors make in the US?

Vehicle inspectors in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $40,000 to $50,000, depending on experience, location, and certification level. Some inspectors working for government agencies or private companies may earn higher wages, especially with specialized skills or certifications. The job often requires knowledge of vehicle safety standards and inspection tools.

What are popular job titles related to Vehicle Inspector jobs in Tucson, AZ?

For Vehicle Inspector jobs in Tucson, AZ, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Vehicle Inspector jobs in Tucson, AZ look for?

The top searched job categories for Vehicle Inspector jobs in Tucson, AZ are:

What cities near Tucson, AZ are hiring for Vehicle Inspector jobs?

Cities near Tucson, AZ with the most Vehicle Inspector job openings:

Infographic showing various Vehicle Inspector job openings in Tucson, AZ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,005 per year, or $18.8 per hour.

First Article Inspector

PDS Tech Commercial

Tucson, AZ • On-site

$25/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Build Quality Into Every Flight, Become a First Article Inspector in Aerospace
Location: Tucson, AZ | Payrate: $25/hour | Schedule: 1st shift, 7am to 3:30pm
PDS Tech Commercial is partnering with a leader in the aerospace industry to hire an experienced First Article Inspector who understands that precision isn't optional-it's mission-critical.
As a First Article Inspector, you'll play a vital role on the Operations Quality team, independently verifying that complex aerospace assemblies meet engineering requirements, customer specifications, and rigorous industry standards. Your expertise will help ensure manufacturing processes consistently deliver defect-free, compliant products ready for the demands of aerospace.
What You'll Do
You'll be at the center of First Article Inspection activities, working across quality, engineering, production, suppliers, and customers to ensure every requirement is documented and met.
Your responsibilities will include:
  • Generate, create, and assemble complete First Article Inspection Reports (FAIRs), including AS9102 Forms 1, 2, and 3, for new product introductions, engineering changes, and customer requirements.
  • Inspect in-process and finished complex aerospace assemblies for compliance with engineering drawings, IPC workmanship standards, and customer specifications.
  • Perform and drive Partial/Delta FAIs resulting from design, tooling, or process modifications.
  • Lead full assembly FAIs across high-reliability electronic and mechanical product lines.
  • Interpret complex engineering blueprints, schematics, and technical specifications.
  • Collaborate with Quality Engineering and Production Management to identify and resolve compliance issues.
  • Coordinate and validate supplier certifications, Certificates of Conformance (CoCs), raw material test reports, CMM inspection data, and other documentation required for FAIR approval.
  • Prepare and submit inspection packages through customer quality portals and digital FAI systems such as NetInspect.
  • Serve as a key point of contact for customer FAIR submissions, managing feedback, corrections, revisions, and final sign-offs.
  • Compile, organize, and maintain detailed technical data packages, certificates, and quality records.
  • Manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced aerospace manufacturing environment.
  • Work overtime when necessary to support production schedules and customer commitments.

What You Bring
Required Qualifications
  • 4-6 years of relevant experience in quality inspection, first article inspection, aerospace manufacturing, or a related field.
  • In-depth knowledge of AS9100 and AS9102 standards and First Article Inspection methodologies.
  • Strong ability to interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, schematics, and technical specifications.
  • Experience compiling, organizing, and maintaining complex quality documentation and technical data packages.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate across quality, engineering, production, supplier, and customer teams.
  • Excellent organization and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple FAIs and competing priorities.
  • Ability to work effectively in a dynamic, high-velocity manufacturing environment.
  • Additional coursework after high school or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Hands-on experience with NetInspect or equivalent digital FAI software.
  • Proficiency with precision metrology tools and mechanical measurement techniques.
  • Experience verifying CMM inspection reports.
  • Experience preparing and submitting inspection packages through customer quality portals.
  • Experience supporting customer FAIR reviews, corrections, and approvals.
  • Aerospace or other highly regulated manufacturing experience.
  • Familiarity with IPC workmanship standards and high-reliability electronic and mechanical assemblies.

Ready to Make Precision Your Profession?
If you're a quality professional who takes pride in getting the details right-and you're ready to put your expertise to work in aerospace-we want to hear from you.
Apply today with PDS Tech Commercial and take the next step toward a career where your work helps ensure every product meets the standards of excellence aerospace demands.
This position requires use of information or access to facilities subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or Export Administration Regulations (EAR). These regulations may limit access of controlled technologies: 1) to U.S. Persons, including U.S. Citizens, lawful permanent residents, and other narrow categories including refugees and asylees, or 2) to certain foreign nationals that have received an export license.
Pay Details: $25.00 per hour
Benefit offerings available for our associates include medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, additional voluntary benefits, EAP program, commuter benefits and a 401K plan. Our benefit offerings provide employees the flexibility to choose the type of coverage that meets their individual needs. In addition, our associates may be eligible for paid leave including Paid Sick Leave or any other paid leave required by Federal, State, or local law, as well as Holiday pay where applicable.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled
Military connected talent encouraged to apply
To read our Candidate Privacy Information Statement, which explains how we will use your information, please navigate to https://www.pdstech.com/candidate-privacy
The Company will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in accordance with federal, state, and local laws and/or security clearance requirements, including, as applicable:
  • The California Fair Chance Act
  • Los Angeles City Fair Chance Ordinance
  • Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers
  • San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance

Massachusetts Candidates Only: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
Ref: US_EN_33_010422_2586364

PDS Tech logo

About PDS Tech

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Founded in 1977, PDS Tech, Inc. is one of the nation's premier specialty staffing firms with 31 offices nationwide.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Irving, TX, US

Year founded

1977

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