First Article Inspector | East Lansing, MI

Salary Range: $53,000 - $80,000 depending on experience

Are you ready to take on a challenging and rewarding opportunity in {{role_field}}? The Pivot Group Network, a West Michigan manufacturing-focused recruiting group, is committed to building meaningful connections in manufacturing. We partner with leading companies in East Lansing seeking First Article Inspectors.

We are building our network of talent in this field across West Michigan and the broader manufacturing region Pivot Group Network serves. Our partner companies may or may not have an immediate opening for this exact role today, but we actively look for skilled professionals in the regions where they operate. If there is alignment now or in the near future, we reach out.

The Opportunity

We are collaborating with manufacturing firms in East Lansing 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 detailed inspections of first article parts, assemblies, and sub-assemblies according to engineering drawings, specifications, and quality standards.
• Utilize a variety of precision measuring tools and equipment, including CMM, calipers, micrometers, gauges, and optical comparators, to verify dimensional accuracy.
• Document inspection results accurately and thoroughly, identifying and reporting any non-conformances or deviations from specifications.
• Collaborate with engineering, production, and quality teams to investigate root causes of defects and support corrective and preventive actions.
• Interpret and apply Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) principles to evaluate part conformance.
• Maintain inspection equipment and tools, ensuring proper calibration and functionality.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of inspection processes and quality control procedures.

Recommended Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; technical certification or Associate's degree preferred.
• 3+ years experience in quality inspection within a manufacturing environment.
• Proficient in reading and interpreting blueprints, engineering drawings, and specifications (GD&T).
• Demonstrated ability to use a wide range of precision measuring tools (e.g., calipers, micrometers, height gauges, CMM).
• Strong understanding of First Article Inspection (FAI) processes and AS9102 or equivalent industry standards.
• Excellent attention to detail and ability to document inspection results accurately.

Bonus Qualifications

• IPC-A-610 or J-STD-001 certification
• Experience with a CMM or other metrology equipment
• Familiarity with various material types (metals, plastics, composites)
• Basic understanding of GD&T principles beyond simple interpretations

Job Titles That Should Apply

First Article Inspector,FAI Inspector,Quality Inspector,Manufacturing Quality Inspector,Dimensional Inspector,Metrology Inspector,Incoming Quality Inspector,Process Quality Inspector,Production Quality Inspector,Quality Control Inspector

Why The Pivot Group Network

The Pivot Group Network 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. Learn more at https://www.thepivotgroup.org.

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 at https://www.thepivotgroup.org. The Pivot Group Network 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.