First Article Inspector | Kalamazoo, MI

Salary Range: $57,000 - $84,000 depending on experience

Are you a skilled professional with a passion for excelling in first article inspector? The Pivot Group is dedicated to building meaningful connections in the manufacturing community. We are collaborating with companies in Kalamazoo seeking experienced First Article Inspectors.

The Opportunity

We are collaborating with manufacturing firms in Kalamazoo that are seeking skilled First Article Inspectors. These organizations are dedicated to maintaining high standards and are looking for professionals who can contribute effectively. By joining our network, you position yourself for opportunities aligned with your career goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform comprehensive first article inspections (FAI) on new or revised parts, assemblies, and tooling.
• Verify dimensional accuracy, material conformity, and finish quality against engineering drawings and specifications.
• Utilize a wide range of precision measuring instruments, including CMM, calipers, micrometers, and gauges.
• Generate detailed First Article Inspection Reports (FAIRs) in accordance with AS9102 or customer requirements.
• Identify and document non-conformances, deviations, and potential quality issues.
• Communicate inspection findings to engineering, production, and quality teams for resolution.
• Maintain inspection equipment calibration and ensure proper functioning for accurate measurements.

Recommended Qualifications

• Proficiency in interpreting complex engineering drawings, blueprints, and Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
• Demonstrated expertise in operating a wide range of precision measurement tools (e.g., calipers, micrometers, CMM, optical comparators).
• Thorough understanding and practical experience with First Article Inspection (FAI) requirements and industry standards (e.g., AS9102).
• Strong ability to accurately document inspection results, generate comprehensive FAI reports, and maintain meticulous records.
• Working knowledge of manufacturing processes, quality control principles, and non-conformance identification.

Bonus Qualifications

• CMM programming experience (e.g., PC-DMIS, Calypso)
• Advanced GD&T certification (e.g., ASME GDTP)
• Experience with statistical analysis software (e.g., Minitab, JMP)
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification
• Proficiency with 3D CAD software for model-based inspection (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA)

Job Titles That Should Apply

First Article Inspector, FAI Inspector, Quality Inspector, Manufacturing Quality Inspector, Dimensional Inspector, Metrology Inspector, Quality Control Inspector, Pre-Production Quality Inspector, Prototype Inspector, Product Quality Inspector

Why Pivot Group

The Pivot Group was founded by manufacturing professionals who've been on both sides of the hiring process. Our clients are strategic—they partner with us because they want real insight into their roles and the people filling them, not a stack of resumes. We focus on match-driven placements built around what actually matters: Commute, Compensation, Culture, and Career trajectory.

If you're ready to take the next step in your career and connect with a firm that values fit over speed, we invite you to reach out. The Pivot Group offers resources to support your search—market insights, resume feedback, and interview preparation. As our partnerships grow, we'll reach out with opportunities aligned with your goals. Thank you for considering this approach to career advancement.