First Article Inspector - Ann Arbor Area

First Article Inspector | Ann Arbor, MI

Salary Range: $49,000 - $76,000 depending on experience

Are you ready to take on a challenging and rewarding opportunity in first article inspector? The Pivot Group Network, a Michigan manufacturing-focused recruiting group, is committed to building meaningful connections in manufacturing. We partner with leading companies in the Ann Arbor area seeking First Article Inspectors.

We are building our network of talent in this field across Michigan's manufacturing regions. 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.

This posting covers First Article Inspector opportunities with manufacturers based in and around Ann Arbor in Washtenaw County, within about 30 minutes of the city, including Whitmore Lake, Ypsilanti, Saline, and Belleville.

The Opportunity

We partner with manufacturers across the Ann Arbor area seeking First Article Inspectors who want more than a lateral move. These companies hire intentionally, and we connect them with professionals ready for roles that fit.

Usual Responsibilities

• Maintain calibration records for inspection tools and gauges.
• Support incoming and in-process inspection when first article work is light.
• Perform first article inspections on machined and fabricated parts using calipers, micrometers, height gauges, and CMM equipment.
• Compare inspection results against engineering drawings, blueprints, and GD&T specifications.
• Complete and submit AS9102 or PPAP first article inspection reports.
• Document dimensional and visual findings in inspection records and quality logs.
• Flag nonconformances and route parts or reports to quality and production teams.
• Work with machinists and engineers to resolve drawing or tolerance questions.

Recommended Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent, with technical training or apprenticeship preferred.
• Attention to detail and comfort working to tight tolerances.
• Experience reading engineering drawings and applying GD&T.
• Hands-on use of precision measurement tools such as calipers, micrometers, and height gauges.
• Familiarity with first article inspection reporting, including AS9102 or PPAP formats.
• Ability to document inspection results accurately and consistently.

Bonus Qualifications

• Experience in aerospace, defense, or medical device manufacturing.
• ASQ Certified Quality Inspector or similar certification.
• Familiarity with quality systems such as ISO 9001 or AS9100.
• Experience with ERP or quality management software for inspection records.
• CMM programming or operation experience.

Job Titles That Should Apply

Dimensional Inspector, CMM Operator, Quality Technician, Incoming Inspection Technician, Mechanical Inspector, Source Inspector, Precision Inspector, Quality Control Inspector, Quality Inspector

Work Authorization

Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. without current or future visa sponsorship. Visa sponsorship is not available.

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.