Hire a Quality Inspector
A quality inspector monitors and supervises the quality of incoming and outgoing products or materials for a company. They devise methods, operations, and set-ups to perform inspections that ensure conformance to standards. They examine and test products and materials for damage or defects that could diminish their overall quality and functionality. Usually, industrial environments such as warehouses, factory units, and assembly lines hire these professionals. Businesses in a multitude of industries may employ inspectors to secure quality in their day-to-day operations and production processes. Most quality inspectors work full time during regular business hours, with some working overtime or weekends to meet deadlines. Shift assignments are generally based on seniority. New entrants in the profession earn an average salary of $35,000 per year. Salary ranges can vary depending on education, certifications, specific skills, and the number of years spent in the profession.
What does a quality inspector do?
Quality inspectors are primarily responsible for maintaining quality. They perform routine quality assessments on all incoming materials from vendors and outgoing shipping items. They see to it that all safety standards are adhered to at all times. Professionals in this role are required to perform several responsibilities daily to complete their jobs effectively. To begin with, they provide oversight and assist with the execution of complex quality control monitoring methodologies. They inspect materials for defects and check to see if there are any deviations from specifications. If the incoming deliveries are not up par, these inspectors make provisions to discard them. They send a requisition for a replacement for the rejected product and materials. As a part of the job role, they facilitate the development of new inspection methods and procedures. They are also responsible for ensuring compliance with accepted protocol and practices. In attaining the quality standards, they recommend necessary corrective actions as needed. Additionally, they prepare all essential quality documentation. Other duties include: teaching the team about quality concerns, supervising control processes, and resolving quality-related issues promptly.
What do employers seek?
In general, a high school diploma or a GED is required for quality inspector roles. However, complex precision-inspecting positions are filled by more skilled and experienced workers. Applicants have a better chance of getting hired if they have completed training or apprenticeship as a QC technician. In the case of entry-level positions, employees receive on-the-job training. For senior positions, employers prefer candidates with previous inspection experience. They must also have knowledge of computers and office software to be considered. To perform well in this role, hiring managers seek quality inspectors with specific skill sets. These include having a strong understanding of quality standards and testing techniques; and the ability to review quality guidelines, policies, and specifications. They must also have sound computation and technical skills and strong communication skills to flourish as a quality inspector.
