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First Article Jobs (NOW HIRING)

PDS Tech Commercial

First Article Inspector

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$25/hr

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 ...

PDS Tech Commercial

First Article Inspector

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$25/hr

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 ...

TruFit Staffing, Inc.

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First Article Assembler

Auburn, WA · On-site

$19 - $26/hr

We are looking forward to bringing on a qualified First Article Assembler to our client's team in Auburn, WA. In this position, you will be responsible for ensuring that the initial assembly of the ...

Phoenix Defense

FIRST ARTICLE INSPECTOR

Gilbert, AZ · On-site

As the First Article Inspector , responsibilities will include but may not be limited to: * Coordinate the collection of all required documentation, manufacturer certifications, inspection data and ...

TruFit Staffing, Inc.

First Article Assembler

Auburn, WA · On-site

$19 - $26/hr

We are looking forward to bringing on a qualified First Article Assembler to our client's team in Auburn, WA. In this position, you will be responsible for ensuring that the initial assembly of the ...

Verify

First Article Inspector

Louisville, KY · On-site

$40/hr

First Article Inspector Location: Louisville, KY Frequency: 40 hrs/week. Full-time W2 Duration: 3 month contract with potential for extension or temp to perm Pay rate $40/hr About Verify, Inc.: At ...

Verify

First Article Inspector

Louisville, KY · On-site

$40/hr

First Article Inspector Location: Louisville, KY Frequency: 40 hrs/week. Full-time W2 Duration: 3 month contract with potential for extension or temp to perm Pay rate $40/hr About Verify, Inc.: At ...

Freudenberg

First Article Inspector

Baldwin Park, CA · On-site

$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 ...

Verify Inc.

First Article Inspector

Louisville, KY · On-site

$40/hr

First Article Inspector Location: Louisville, KY Frequency: 40 hrs/week. Full-time W2 Duration: 3 month contract with potential for extension or temp to perm Pay rate $40/hr About Verify, Inc.: At ...

Verify

First Article Inspector

Louisville, KY · On-site

$40/hr

First Article Inspector Location: Louisville, KY Frequency: 40 hrs/week. Full-time W2 Duration: 3 month contract with potential for extension or temp to perm Pay rate $40/hr About Verify, Inc.: At ...

Koch Industries

First Article Inspector

Phillips, WI · On-site

Complete first article inspection per customer specifications and maintain appropriate records * Responsible for measuring parts and reporting any findings to engineering for submission to customer ...

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First Article information

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$48

$78

How much do first article jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for first article in the United States is $48.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38.22 and $55.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a first article?

A First Article job refers to the initial production run of a part or assembly used to verify that manufacturing processes meet design specifications. It typically involves a First Article Inspection (FAI), where dimensions, materials, and other critical features are reviewed against engineering requirements. This process ensures that the production setup is correct before full-scale manufacturing begins. First Article jobs are common in industries like aerospace, automotive, and medical devices, where precision and compliance are crucial.

What does a first article inspector do?

First Article Inspectors are responsible for verifying that the first item produced in a manufacturing run meets all required specifications and standards. Each day, you can expect to review engineering drawings, conduct precise measurements using specialized tools, and document inspection results in detailed reports. You may also coordinate with engineers, machinists, and production managers to resolve any discrepancies and provide feedback for process improvements. This role is vital for maintaining quality assurance and establishing a benchmark for the rest of the production run.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the first article position?

To thrive as a First Article Inspector, you need a strong background in quality control, blueprint reading, and manufacturing processes, typically supported by experience in a similar production or inspection environment. Familiarity with measurement tools such as calipers, micrometers, CMM machines, and quality management systems (QMS) like ISO 9001 is essential. Excellent attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication skills help inspectors collaborate with production teams and document results accurately. These skills are critical to ensure that initial production samples meet all specifications, preventing costly errors in mass production.

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What cities are hiring for First Article jobs?

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What states have the most First Article jobs?

States with the most job openings for First Article jobs include:

What job categories do people searching First Article jobs look for?

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Infographic showing various First Article job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $100,970 per year, or $48.5 per hour.

FIRST ARTICLE INSPECTOR

Gilbert, AZ • On-site

Phoenix Logistics Inc.
See more jobs at Phoenix Logistics Inc.external

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

At PLI Manufacturing, a company of Phoenix Defense, our team members have incredible opportunities to support fabrication work of critical aerospace/space products for prime initiatives and projects in the aerospace and defense industries. We look for people who are team players, collaborative and bring bold new ideas.  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.

With every job we fill, our focus is on providing best in class service to our customers while offering the opportunity for career growth in a rewarding and innovative work environment. We are now hiring for a First Article Inspector.

WHAT YOU WILL DO:

 As the First Article Inspector, responsibilities will include but may not be limited to:

  • Coordinate the collection of all required documentation, manufacturer certifications, inspection data and additional paperwork required in support of the First Article Process based upon customer requirements.
  • Perform and document First Article Inspections (FAI) per AS9102 and/or Customer requirements, including delta and Internal FAI’s.
  • Verify and validate the FAI packages before submitting them to the quality team for review and approval.
  • Maintain FAI packages, process and test documentation in the company’s ERP system and upload to customer portals as necessary.
  • Create non-conformance and corrective action reports when necessary.
  • Drive Root cause and corrective action when repeat nonconformities are identified.
  • Perform quality control inspections, checks, and tests during the manufacture of products.
  • Assist with RMA & MRB duties and drive quick disposition for any nonconforming products as needed.
  • Participate in teams to help improve safety, FOD awareness, and reduce rework.
  • Maintain high level of integrity in dealing with all departments within the organization.

ABOUT YOU:

  • Associate degree or High school diploma with a minimum of 4 years relevant experience.
  • Understanding of AS9102 First Article Inspection Requirements
  • Skilled in the use of measuring equipment, such as scales, calipers, and micrometers.
  • Strong attention to detail, organization, time management and communication skills.
  • Ability to learn and train other team members new processes or techniques.
  • Computer skills (Microsoft Excel, Word, general ERP/MRP knowledge).

PREFERRED SKILLS/QUALIFICATIONS:

  • AS9100 or ISO9001 Quality Management System knowledge
  • SolidWorks Inspection software proficiency
  • J-STD-001 Solder Workmanship
  • IPC-A-620 Wire Harness Workmanship

BENEFITS:

  • 401K
  • Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
  • Accrued PTO and 10 paid holidays
  • Tuition assistance for professional growth
  • Perks at Work discount program

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