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Quality Assurance Inspector Career Summary

Quality assurance inspectors monitor the quality of almost any manufactured product from food to electronics to apparel. A minimum of a high school diploma is necessary for most jobs and employers generally train inspectors on the job.

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Job Duties and Responsibilities of a Quality Assurance Inspector

Quality assurance inspectors will use a variety of testing methods to assure the quality of manufactured products. Specific duties will vary widely depending on the product. Food inspectors will do visual inspections as well as taste, and they may also check packaging. In a manufacturing setting, the inspector will examine individual parts as well as assembled products. Inspectors generally follow formalized standards from the International Organization for Standardization. These standards have become internationally accepted. Following are examples of more specific job duties taken from listings posted on monster.com:

  • 'Essential duties will include in-process inspections, welding inspections, process improvements, testing, receiving inspections and maintenance of quality records. Candidate will inspect all vessels visually for parts alignment, boat building techniques, appearance, fairness and other quality requirements.' -- Aerotek Commercial Staffing
  • 'Responsibilities of the quality assurance inspector include conducting thorough first article inspections on both molded and vendor-supplied parts, regularly inspecting machines and assembly lines to ensure that all machine and assembly processes are maintained, monitoring and preserving quality control records and reports from manufacturing areas and adhering to ISO 9001:2000 quality assurance standards.' - Hyrian

Job Requirements for Quality Assurance Inspectors

A quality assurance inspector will generally receive training on the job, which may include the use of special meters, gauges, computers and other instruments, quality-control methods, blueprint reading and reporting. There are vocational programs available in testing and inspecting and many employees choose to take the American Society for Quality certification exam to become a certified quality inspector. Specific job requirements are illustrated in the excerpts below from job postings on careerbuilder.com:

  • 'We require the ability to read and interpret blueprints and drawing and knowledge of ANSI/NCLS Z540-1 requirements and ISO 9001 Quality system. Inspector must be well versed in inspection measuring equipment for mechanical systems and be able to work cooperatively in a hands-on team environment.' - PrideStaff
  • 'Requirements for this position include a related two-year post-high school diploma or certificate or four years of job experience related to quality assurance and/or machine trades. We also require a demonstrated ability to interpret customer specifications and drawings related to machine and weld shop production processes, working knowledge of basic machine shop inspection technology and sound measurement practices and proficiency in the selection, calibration and use of precision machine shop gauging.' -- MRI Network

Job Outlook for Quality Assurance Inspectors

Although automation has reduced the need for quality inspectors in some industries, others still require a human touch. And as the importance of quality increases and become standardized, there will continue to be a need for quality assurance inspectors. Job opportunities will be best for those with experience and advanced skills. According to bls.gov, the median hourly wage for quality assurance inspectors was $14.14 in May 2006. Advancement comes most often in the form of higher wages. Those who seek certification or additional training may expect pay increases as well. Some quality assurance inspectors move into management or supervisorial roles.

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