What Does a Quality Control Inspector Do?
A quality control inspector ensures that products, materials, and processes meet established quality and safety standards. They conduct inspections, measure materials, and test finished goods to identify defects or deviations. By following documented procedures and industry regulations, they help maintain consistent production quality and reduce errors.
Quality control inspectors work closely with production teams to verify compliance at every stage of the manufacturing process. Their role involves identifying potential issues early, documenting findings, and recommending corrective actions. Whether in manufacturing, construction, or other industries, they play a key role in protecting customers, ensuring compliance, and safeguarding brand reputation.
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Quality Control Inspector Core Responsibilities
- Inspect products, parts, or materials for compliance with specifications
- Measure and test materials using gauges, calipers, or other tools
- Document inspection results and maintain detailed quality records
- Identify defects or inconsistencies and report findings to supervisors
- Monitor production processes to ensure adherence to standards
- Collaborate with production teams to address quality issues promptly
- Support audits and regulatory inspections when required
- Recommend improvements to prevent recurring quality issues
Required Skills and Qualifications
Hard skills
- Knowledge of quality inspection methods and measurement tools
- Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and specifications
- Familiarity with inspection equipment such as micrometers and calipers
- Understanding of compliance standards relevant to the industry (ISO, FDA, OSHA)
- Basic proficiency with data entry and reporting software
Soft skills
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy
- Good problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities
- Effective communication and reporting skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Strong organizational and time management skills
Education
- High school diploma or GED required; associate or technical degree in quality, manufacturing, or related field preferred
Certifications
- ASQ Certified Quality Inspector (CQI) recommended
- OSHA safety training recommended for regulated industries
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience working in a manufacturing, construction, or production environment
- Familiarity with statistical process control (SPC) techniques
- Knowledge of enterprise quality systems or ERP platforms
- Previous involvement in Lean, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement programs
National Average Salary
Quality control inspector salaries vary by experience, industry, organization size, and geography. Click below to explore salaries by local market.
The average national salary for a Quality Control Inspector is:
$43,746
Sample Job Description Templates for Quality Control Inspectors
Entry-Level Quality Control Inspector
Position Overview
We are hiring an entry-level quality control inspector to support our production team by conducting basic inspections, documenting results, and ensuring that products meet company and customer standards. This is a hands-on role designed for individuals starting their career in quality assurance or manufacturing, with opportunities to grow into more advanced inspection roles.
Responsibilities
- Perform visual inspections and basic measurements on materials and finished products
- Record inspection results and maintain accurate quality logs
- Report defects or nonconformities to supervisors for corrective action
- Assist in maintaining a clean and organized inspection area
- Follow safety guidelines and company quality standards
- Learn and apply inspection procedures under supervision
Requirements
Hard skills
- Basic knowledge of quality control processes
- Ability to use simple measuring tools such as rulers, gauges, or calipers
- Familiarity with Microsoft Office or basic data entry software
Soft skills
- Strong attention to detail
- Willingness to learn and follow instructions
- Good communication skills
- Dependable and able to work in a team environment
Education
- High school diploma or GED required
Certifications
- OSHA safety training recommended
Preferred Qualifications
- Prior internship or experience in a manufacturing or production environment
- Exposure to ISO or other quality standards
Mid-Level Quality Control Inspector
Position Overview
We are hiring a mid-level quality control inspector to carry out detailed inspections, identify defects, and collaborate with production staff to resolve quality issues. This role requires hands-on experience in quality inspection and the ability to work with precision tools and documentation systems.
Responsibilities
- Inspect parts, assemblies, or finished goods against specifications
- Use precision measuring equipment such as micrometers, calipers, and gauges
- Document inspection results and generate reports for supervisors
- Identify trends in defects and suggest improvements
- Participate in audits and compliance inspections
- Support training of entry-level inspectors
Requirements
Hard skills
- Proficiency with precision measuring instruments
- Ability to read and interpret technical drawings or blueprints
- Familiarity with quality management systems and defect tracking
- Basic knowledge of industry standards such as ISO or FDA regulations
Soft skills
- Problem-solving skills to identify root causes of issues
- Strong organizational abilities
- Clear written and verbal communication
- Ability to work with minimal supervision
Education
- High school diploma required; associate degree in quality or related field preferred
Certifications
- ASQ Certified Quality Inspector (CQI) recommended
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience using ERP or enterprise quality systems
- Background in Lean or Six Sigma methodologies
Senior Quality Control Inspector
Position Overview
We are hiring a senior quality control inspector to lead inspections on complex parts and products, mentor junior inspectors, and ensure compliance with strict quality standards. This role requires advanced inspection skills, strong technical knowledge, and experience working with regulated industry standards.
Responsibilities
- Lead detailed inspections and tests on products and materials
- Train and mentor junior and mid-level inspectors
- Develop inspection procedures and ensure adherence to standards
- Perform root cause analysis on recurring quality issues
- Prepare and present detailed quality reports to management
- Collaborate with engineering and production teams on corrective actions
Requirements
Hard skills
- Advanced knowledge of inspection methods and quality control tools
- Proficiency with precision instruments and advanced testing equipment
- Ability to create inspection documentation and procedures
- Strong knowledge of regulatory and compliance requirements
Soft skills
- Leadership and mentoring abilities
- Analytical thinking and attention to detail
- Effective communication with technical and non-technical staff
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in fast-paced environments
Education
- Associate degree in quality, engineering, or related field required; bachelor’s degree preferred
Certifications
- ASQ Certified Quality Inspector (CQI) required in many industries
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in regulated sectors such as aerospace, pharmaceuticals, or medical devices
- Knowledge of statistical process control (SPC)
Lead Quality Control Inspector
Position Overview
We are hiring a lead quality control inspector to oversee inspection activities, assign tasks to inspection staff, and ensure compliance with company and regulatory standards. This role requires both technical expertise and leadership skills to coordinate quality control operations effectively.
Responsibilities
- Supervise and coordinate daily activities of QC inspectors
- Ensure inspections meet internal and external compliance standards
- Oversee the calibration and use of inspection equipment
- Review and approve inspection reports and documentation
- Train and coach inspection staff on quality procedures
- Serve as the point of contact for quality audits and inspections
Requirements
Hard skills
- Expertise in inspection techniques and measurement systems
- Proficiency with quality control software and reporting tools
- Strong knowledge of compliance standards (ISO, FDA, OSHA)
- Ability to analyze quality metrics and implement improvements
Soft skills
- Strong leadership and supervisory abilities
- Excellent communication and conflict-resolution skills
- Ability to drive continuous improvement initiatives
- Organizational and decision-making skills
Education
- Associate or bachelor’s degree in quality, manufacturing, or engineering preferred
Certifications
- ASQ Certified Quality Inspector (CQI) or higher-level certification recommended
Preferred Qualifications
- Previous experience leading inspection teams in manufacturing or production
- Background in Lean Six Sigma practices
Quality Control Supervisor
Position Overview
We are hiring a quality control supervisor to manage the inspection team, oversee quality control processes, and ensure that all products meet customer and regulatory standards. This role requires strong leadership, the ability to enforce quality policies, and the skills to collaborate with production and engineering leadership.
Responsibilities
- Supervise quality control inspectors and manage daily workflows
- Develop, implement, and enforce quality policies and procedures
- Oversee compliance with ISO, FDA, or other industry standards
- Report quality metrics to senior management and suggest improvements
- Lead internal audits and coordinate with external auditors
- Ensure corrective and preventive actions are implemented effectively
Requirements
Hard skills
- Extensive knowledge of inspection and quality assurance practices
- Experience with quality management systems and compliance audits
- Strong reporting and data analysis skills
- Proficiency in using advanced measurement tools
Soft skills
- Strong leadership and team management abilities
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Problem-solving skills with focus on root cause analysis
- Ability to influence change and build a culture of quality
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in quality management, engineering, or related field preferred
Certifications
- ASQ Certified Quality Inspector (CQI) or Certified Quality Auditor (CQA) recommended
- Six Sigma Green Belt preferred
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience supervising teams in manufacturing, aerospace, or regulated industries
- Proven record of implementing quality improvements and cost savings