First Article Inspector | Ludington, MI

Salary Range: $48,000 - $75,000 depending on experience

Are you a meticulous professional with a passion for excelling in first article inspector? The Pivot Group Network, a West Michigan manufacturing-focused recruiting group, is dedicated to fostering meaningful relationships and supporting career growth. We are collaborating with companies in Ludington seeking experienced 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 multiple companies in Ludington seeking experienced First Article Inspectors. These organizations value long-term fit and are looking for professionals who bring both skill and alignment. By joining our network, you gain access to opportunities tailored to your goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform detailed inspections of first article parts, assemblies, and sub-assemblies according to engineering drawings, specifications, and quality standards.
• Utilize a wide range of precision measuring tools and equipment, including CMM, calipers, micrometers, gauges, optical comparators, and surface plates.
• Document inspection results accurately and comprehensively, including non-conformances, using designated quality management systems and forms.
• Collaborate with engineering, production, and quality teams to resolve discrepancies and ensure adherence to design intent and manufacturing processes.
• Interpret and apply Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) principles to evaluate part conformance.
• Initiate and participate in root cause analysis for identified defects and support corrective and preventive action implementation.
• Maintain and calibrate inspection equipment according to established schedules and procedures.

Recommended Qualifications

• 3+ years experience in manufacturing quality inspection, preferably as a First Article Inspector.
• Proficient in interpreting engineering drawings, blueprints, and GD&T specifications.
• Demonstrated ability to use a wide range of precision measuring tools (e.g., calipers, micrometers, CMM).
• Strong understanding of AS9102 First Article Inspection Report requirements.
• Excellent attention to detail and ability to identify non-conformances accurately.

Bonus Qualifications

• IPC-A-610 or J-STD-001 certification
• Experience with various metrology equipment (e.g., CMM, optical comparators, vision systems)
• Familiarity with GD&T principles and application
• Ability to read and interpret complex engineering drawings and specifications

Job Titles That Should Apply

First Article Inspector,FAI Inspector,Quality Inspector,Receiving Inspector,Dimensional Inspector,Metrology Technician,Quality Control Inspector,Incoming Quality Inspector,Pre-Production Inspector,Manufacturing Quality 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.