What does a quality control inspector do?
A quality control inspector ensures products are safe and meet the manufacturer’s guidelines before they leave the facility. They review each product to certify they are uniform and that customers will receive a standard and satisfactory product. Some duties of a quality control inspector include:
• Monitoring manufacturing operations and making sure that systems are functioning properly
• Maintaining and testing instruments and equipment
• Testing a percentage of all the products made in a particular facility based on industry standards
• Reporting defects, malfunctions or any other problems to senior staff
• Training and managing new quality assurance team members
• Inspecting products at various stages, from raw materials to final item
• Writing, teaching, maintaining and updating testing protocols
Average salary:
Many quality control inspectors are full-time employees. There are also opportunities in the field for those who want part time or temporary employment, and even those who would like to work from home. Salary depends on their level of education, as well as the size, type and geographical location of their place of employment. For the most up-to-date salary information from Indeed, click on the salary link.
- Common salary in the U.S.: $15.48 per hour
- Some salaries range from $7.25 to $29.20 per hour.
Quality control inspector requirements
Quality control inspectors typically need a combination of experience and skills to excel within their role:
Education:
Entry-level quality control inspectors should have at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Having a bachelor’s or associate degree in quality assurance can expand a quality control inspector’s job opportunities and increase their earning potential. A degree program in quality assurance focuses on manufacturing, technical communications, engineering, and safety and reliability. Many universities offer an online program in quality assurance as well.
Quality control inspectors can also earn a degree in their intended work field, including aeronautics, business administration, pharmacy, chemistry, business auditing, production control, mechanical engineering, industrial engineering or electronic engineering. Some companies may allow relevant work experience as a substitute for education requirements.
Training:
Most quality control inspector training will be on the job and will vary based on the industry. Each factory, facility or company has its own guidelines for quality inspection, and an inspector will typically receive training in the first few months of employment. A quality control inspector may learn how to comply with federal standards, use specialized tools and follows safety protocols. They may also receive instruction on basic company policies.
Certifications:
Though quality assurance inspectors don’t need certification to work, earning one can show their dedication to their field. The American Society of Quality offers several globally recognized certifications in the quality assurance field. Certifications include software quality engineer, supplier quality professional, reliability engineer, six sigma, food safety auditor, calibration technician and organizational excellence. Candidates can take computer-based exams at testing centers to obtain the certificates. You will need to apply for recertification every three years.
Skills
Quality control inspectors need a combination of soft skills and qualities to be successful:
Detail orientation
An inspector should be aware of all changes in processes, functions and results. They should be highly observant to identify small differences in products and procedures to meet detailed standards.
Communication
Inspectors have to communicate their findings clearly and frankly, so they need to possess excellent written and communication skills. Inspectors will also need to communicate findings and ways to improve or rectify mistakes to other employees. In some cases, inspectors write protocols.
Training skills
Quality control inspectors may need to train fellow employees in certain processes and procedures. If an inspector finds and fixes a flaw, they should be able to instruct others on how to prevent future instances for a smoother workflow.
Physical strength
Some quality control inspectors move around large facilities, use heavy machinery or move large items. Some positions require candidates to be able to lift a specific weight if they will need to inspect heavy products.
Technical skills
Quality control inspectors can use many different types of machinery or computer programs. They should have a strong knowledge of the equipment and programs used in their industry to maintain safety guidelines and complete tasks successfully.
Organization
A detailed process is an important part of a quality control inspector’s job, so they need strong organizational skills to perform methods of inspection and review. Organization may include keeping a tidy workspace and ensuring they can locate the right tools quickly.
Quality control inspector work environment
A quality control inspector’s work environment will vary depending on the size of the company and the industry. While most work full time during regular hours, others might work overnight or for extra hours according to production deadlines. Most quality control inspector work environments will have many of these in common. Quality control inspectors find positions in a wide range of industries, in which they use hard and soft skills to test and monitor products. Examples include:
- Pharmaceutical corporations
- Aeronautical firms
- Food production companies
- Electronic manufacturers
- Vehicle manufacturers
- Furniture and appliance manufacturers
- Chemical companies
- Apparel companies