Home

Quality Control Inspector

Do you want to become a Quality Control Inspector? Here is some information to help point you in the right direction:

Job Description - Print Page

Bookmark or recommend this article:

A quality control inspector makes sure that manufactured products meet the right standards before they are shipped to customers. The roles vary widely, for example:

• A quality control inspector in an engineering firm might use special equipment to check that parts have been properly assembled.
• In the food sector, an inspector might make sure that cakes are a standard size and colour, and that they have been packaged in line with the specification.

General tasks are likely to include:

• monitoring the production process at different stages
• carrying out tests on products that come off the production line
• writing reports on test results.

A quality control inspector usually works 38 to 40 hours a week. They often work shifts, including evenings, nights and weekends. It may be possible to work part time. Inspectors are usually based in a workshop or laboratory. However, they often visit the factory floor to collect samples or check the production process.

Salaries for quality control inspectors range from around £14,000 to £35,000 a year.

A quality control inspector needs to:

• be accurate and methodical
• be good with numbers
• be willing to work as part of a team
• enjoy doing careful, detailed work.

Employers include manufacturers in many sectors, including pharmaceutical, medical devices, building and construction, food and drink, aerospace, textiles, electrical and steel. There may be opportunities to work abroad in some sectors. However, the number of quality control inspector posts has been falling, as more sophisticated equipment has been developed which is better able to pick up inconsistencies.

Apprenticeships offer training in some fields, such as engineering and food and drink manufacturing. Quality control inspectors in more specialised industries, such as pharmaceuticals or aerospace, may require A levels/H grades, or a degree. There is no upper age limit for this work, and a mature outlook is an asset.

Training is generally provided on the job by the employer. Quality control inspectors may also study part time to extend their knowledge and advance their careers. There are a range of specialised courses available, including an NVQ/SVQ in Quality Management at Level 4.

Quality control inspectors can progress to supervisor or team-leader level. Some organisations have teams devoted to quality assurance or management. With experience an inspector may move into this wider role.

More Useful Resources - Quality Control Inspector:

Do you know of a useful and relevant website that would be helpful to our users? Tell us about it by emailing