First Article Inspector

Princeton Tool Inc; Tampa (FL); On-site; USD 39,000 - 41,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Profit-sharing bonus

Paid time off

401(k) with match

Paid holidays

Tuition reimbursement

Health insurance

Disability insurance

Advancement opportunities

Job summary

Princeton Tool Inc in Tampa, FL, seeks an experienced First Article Inspector to lead FAI inspections, program CMMs, and ensure aerospace part conformity. You will work with engineering and production to resolve issues and uphold ITAR compliance.

The role targets senior-level expertise in Calypso-based CMM programs and AS9102/Ford standards, with opportunities for growth and advancement within a dynamic defense-focused environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years in operating and programming CMMs for aerospace/defense.
• Strong GD&T knowledge and engineering drawing interpretation.
• Experience with AS9102 and FAI documentation.

Responsibilities

• Perform first article inspections and verify customer specifications.
• Prepare and execute CMM programs for FAI of complex parts.
• Document inspection results and identify non-conformances.
• Collaborate with engineering to resolve discrepancies.
• Program and operate CMMs to measure aerospace/defense components.
• Develop and modify CMM programs from drawings/CAD models.
• Utilize Calypso to write, optimize, verify inspection programs.
• Maintain/calibrate CMM equipment and provide QA support.
• Analyze inspection data and contribute to quality reports.
• Review drawings and work instructions for standards compliance.
• Train team members in CMM operations and programming.

Skills

Calypso software

CMM programming

CMM operation

GD&T

AS9102 knowledge

First article inspection

Inspection data analysis

Problem solving

Team collaboration

Robotic CMMs

Education

Associate or Bachelor in technical field

Tools

CMM machines

Calypso software

Job description

First Article Inspector

PRINCETON TOOL INC Tampa, Florida, United States

About this position

Princeton Precision Group: Always Advancing. Each business unit under the PPG portfolio has been deliberately selected for their ability to support their customers, lead their industry, and provide high quality products. Your journey with us is more than just a job. It is an opportunity to support the manufacturing of critical hardware to key defense programs, supporting missions to space and providing access for global travel. Join us in the journey!

We are actively seeking an experienced First Article Inspector to join and grow in the PPG organization. The First Article Inspector is responsible for performing first article inspections, operating and programming CMMs, and ensuring the highest level of accuracy and precision in measuring complex aerospace components. The ideal candidate will have expertise in operating and programming CMM equipment to inspect detailed components according to engineering specifications and standards.

Highlights and Benefits

• Quarterly profit-sharing bonus; eligible upon hire
• Paid time off
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid holidays
• Tuition / professional development reimbursement
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Optional HSA with company contribution
• Short-term disability, long term disability, and life insurance at no cost
• Limitless opportunity for advancement

Requirements

• Conduct first article inspections (FAI) and first piece inspection to verify that newly manufactured parts meet customer specifications and regulatory requirements.
• Prepare and execute CMM programs for first article inspection of complex aerospace and defense components.
• Document and review inspection results, highlighting any non-conformances or deviations from specifications.
• Collaborate with engineering and production teams to resolve any discrepancies or issues identified during the first article process.
• Program and operate CMM machines (manual or automated) to perform measurements on a variety of aerospace and defense components, ensuring high accuracy and precision.
• Develop and modify CMM programs for parts, assemblies, and tooling based on engineering drawings, CAD models, and part prints.
• Utilize Calypso CMM software to write, optimize, and verify CMM inspection programs.
• Perform routine maintenance and calibration on CMM equipment to ensure its functionality and precision.
• Provide technical support to the quality assurance team during inspections and provide feedback to ensure continuous quality improvements.
• Analyze inspection data and assist in the creation of quality reports, identifying trends or areas for improvement.
• Review drawings, specifications, and work instructions to ensure compliance with customer and industry standards.
• Work closely with engineering, production, and quality teams to resolve measurement-related issues.
• Assist in the development and implementation of best practices and continuous improvement initiatives for the quality control process.
• Train and mentor other team members in CMM operations and programming techniques.

Knowledge, skills, and abilities

• High school diploma or equivalent; associate’s or bachelor’s degree in a technical field (e.g., Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Technology, or related discipline) preferred.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience operating and programming CMMs in a manufacturing environment, with a focus on aerospace and defense applications.
• Expert in CMM programming and operation using Calypso software
• Strong knowledge of GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing), blueprints, and engineering drawings, specifically in the context of aerospace and defense standards.
• Experience with first article inspection and understanding of industry standards such as "AS9102" for aerospace FAI documentation.
• Knowledge of materials, manufacturing processes, and inspection techniques used in the aerospace and defense industry.
• Strong attention to detail with excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to work independently, manage priorities, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, to effectively collaborate with team members and other departments.
• Experience with robotic CMMs and automation systems.
• Certification or formal training in CMM operation and programming.
• Familiarity with ISO 9001, AS9100, or similar quality management systems.

Princeton Precision Group abides by applicable export control laws including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) in accordance with the company's export control procedures. Most positions require access to ITAR/EAR-controlled information. As such, persons considered for this position must be either a U.S. Citizen, Permanent Resident (green card holder) or otherwise classifiable as a “U.S. Person” under relevant regulations.

Salary Information

$27.5 - $30Hourly Wage