Inspector

First Article Inspector

The First Article Inspector (FAI) is responsible for performing rigorous quality inspections on newly developed or modified production processes to ensure compliance with design specifications, engineering drawings, and manufacturing standards. This role serves as a critical gatekeeper in the production of high-reliability aerospace and defense components, specifically focusing on CCAs, Cables, Electronic Assemblies, Cabinets, and Line Replaceable Units (LRUs). The FAI will verify that the manufacturing process is capable of producing parts that meet all dimensional, electrical, and functional requirements.

Key Responsibilities:

• First Article Inspection: Perform detailed first-article inspections (FAI) in accordance with AS9102 or relevant industry standards to validate that manufacturing processes meet design intent.
• Commodity Inspection: Execute inspections across a diverse range of commodities, including:
• Circuit Card Assemblies (CCAs): Verify solder quality, component placement, and electrical integrity.
• Cables & Wire Harnesses: Inspect continuity, insulation, and physical routing.
• Electronic Assemblies & LRUs: Ensure high-level functional compliance and assembly accuracy.
• Cabinets & Mechanical Structures: Perform dimensional and visual inspections of enclosures and structural components.
• Technical Documentation Review: Interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, schematics, and work instructions to ensure product compliance.
• Measurement & Testing: Utilize precision measurement tools (e.g., calipers, micrometers, height gauges) and electrical test equipment (e.g., multimeters, oscilloscopes) to validate product specifications.
• Non-Conformance Management: Identify, document, and report discrepancies or non-conformances. Collaborate with Engineering and Production teams to initiate Corrective Action Requests (CARs) and Root Cause Analysis.
• Process Validation: Participate in process audits and documentation reviews to ensure all material certifications and manufacturing steps are compliant with quality standards.

Required Qualifications:

• Education: High School Diploma or equivalent; Associate Degree in a technical field or military training is preferred.
• Experience: Experience in quality inspection, manufacturing, or a related technical field within the aerospace or defense industry.
• Technical Proficiency: Proven experience reading and interpreting complex blueprints, schematics, and technical drawings. Hands-on experience with precision measurement instruments and electrical testing tools. Familiarity with AS9102 (First Article Inspection reporting) and quality management systems.
• Core Competencies: Strong attention to detail and high level of accuracy. Ability to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. Excellent written and verbal communication skills for reporting technical discrepancies.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience specifically with Line Replaceable Units (LRUs) and complex electronic systems.
• Knowledge of IPC-A-610 (Acceptability of Electronic Assemblies) and J-STD-001.
• Proficiency in using Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) or Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) for documentation.
• Experience in Root Cause and Corrective Action (RCCA) processes.