Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers
Inspect, test, sort, sample, or weigh nonagricultural raw materials or processed, machined, fabricated, or assembled parts or products for defects, wear, and deviations from specifications. May use precision measuring instruments and complex test equipment.
SOC: 51-9061.00
Common Job Titles
InspectorQuality Control Inspector (QC Inspector)Quality InspectorQuality Technician
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- Hands-onOperate precision measuring instruments including micrometers, calipers, and coordinate measuring machines in manufacturing environments to verify dimensional specifications.Proficient
- KnowledgeEvaluate product and material compliance with quality standards using established specifications and regulatory requirements.Proficient
- KnowledgeCompare physical characteristics of products against engineering drawings and specifications using optical comparators and measurement software.Proficient
- KnowledgeDistinguish acceptable product variations from critical defects through visual inspection and mechanical testing in high-volume manufacturing settings.Proficient
- Hands-onPerform non-destructive testing procedures using ultrasonic, magnetic particle, and eddy current flaw detectors following safety protocols and manufacturer guidelines.Developing
- KnowledgeAnalyze inspection data and measurement results using statistical process control methods to identify trends and deviations.Developing
- KnowledgeApply quality control procedures and testing protocols across diverse production materials including machined parts and assembled components.Developing
- Hands-onExecute sorting and sampling operations handling materials efficiently while maintaining accuracy under production deadlines.Developing
- KnowledgeSummarize inspection findings and quality documentation in written reports for supervisors and cross-functional teams.Developing
- MindsetEngage in collaborative problem-solving with production and engineering personnel when addressing quality defects and process improvements.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
591,180
Wage Distribution by Percentile
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $34,590 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $75,510 |
| Workers on average earn | $51,670 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Production and Processing4.3/5
- English Language3.6/5
- Customer and Personal Service3.4/5
- Mechanical3.2/5
- Mathematics3.1/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
Apache HiveAtlassian JIRAAutodesk AutoCADDassault Systemes SolidWorksExtensible markup language XMLMicrosoft AccessMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft PowerPointMicrosoft SharePointMicrosoft VisioMicrosoft WordRSAP softwareSeleniumStructured query language SQLThe MathWorks MATLAB
Technology Skills
Apache PigComputer assisted design softwareComputer-aided inspection softwareCoordinate measuring machine softwareCybermetrics GAGETrakDassault Systemes CATIAData analysis softwareData entry software
Tools & Equipment
AccelerometersAmmetersBackplane testersBeta gaugesBit error rate testers BERTBubble leak testersCalipersCalorimetric leak testers