Quality inspectors examine material goods on a production line and approve or reject them based on their quality. They often inspect raw materials prior to production to ensure the products meet specific standards. Quality inspectors also examine and test the final product, signing off when the product meets specifications and requirements. As quality inspectors find faults in end results, they help to identify weaknesses or problems in the production line itself so their employer can correct those faults and create better results for customers.
Industry standards hinge not only on performance, but also on engineering plans as well as weights and measures. In addition to knowledge about their industry and products, quality inspectors must have attention to detail, be able to read engineering plans and work with a variety of measurement and calibration tools.
Required Education and Experience
Quality inspectors do not require any specific degree or educational path. A high school diploma is often the minimal educational requirement for quality inspectors. However, in highly specialized fields, many employers do require postsecondary education. Pursuing a degree is often a good way to break into the field, as students can take advantage of internships to gain hands-on experience which is often equally, if not more important than a degree.
Regardless of educational background, quality inspection is rarely an entry-level position. Most inspectors come from a position in manufacturing, where they learn as much as they can about the production process. Organizations like American Society for Quality (ASQ), offer certifications for new and experienced inspectors to help them improve their marketability to employers.
Job Outlook
Quality inspection is a vast field. Any company that produces a product utilizes quality inspection. Because of the vastness of the field, it is difficult to accurately assess employment growth and salary. Oftentimes, these factors are dictated by the industry in which the employer operates. The electronics manufacturing industry may have a vastly different outlook and pay scale than the automotive industry, for example. Because it is so difficult to aggregate these jobs, the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts employment to remain steady for quality inspectors over the next several years.
Current Vacancy
A company in Alpharetta, Georgia, is currently seeking a Quality Inspector. In this role, the QI will work from blueprints, engineering change notices or established operating procedures to perform a wide range of complex inspection procedures and determine acceptance or rejection of parts and materials. Candidates must be able to read and interpret engineering drawings, methods and instructions. The position requires experience using measurement tools (calipers, micrometers, etc.) for process and final inspection. Additionally, candidates must be able to work with delicate parts with agility. Metal shop experience is required and sheet metal parts experience is preferred but candidates with other metal experience such as aluminum or plate steel will be considered. You can learn more about this opportunity and apply online here.
If you are an experienced quality inspector looking for exciting new opportunities in the Southeast region of the U.S., we encourage you to reach out to the expert recruiters at Selectek. We are always seeking strong engineering and technical talent to match with some of the most innovative companies in the region. Contact us today to learn more about our process for helping you take the next step in your career.
