Quality Control Inspector

Quality control inspectors examine products and materials for defects, deviations, and compliance with specifications using precision measurement instruments, visual inspection, and testing equipment. They document findings, recommend corrective actions, and ensure products meet industry standards like ISO 9001. The BLS reports a median salary of $43,770. Employment is expected to remain stable as manufacturers maintain rigorous quality standards.

A Day in the Life

A typical day starts with a morning calibration check of measurement instruments. The inspector then moves to the production line, pulling random samples and measuring dimensions with calipers and gauges. After documenting results in the quality management system, they attend a meeting to review yesterday's defect trends. Afternoon work involves testing incoming raw materials and writing a non-conformance report for a rejected batch.

Key Stats

Education

High School Diploma

Salary Range

Entry: $30,000

Median: $43,770

Senior: $62,000

Job Growth

-3%Declining

Required Skills

Attention to DetailPrecision MeasurementDocumentationStatistical AnalysisProblem Solving