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
Inspector
Quality Control Inspector (QC Inspector)
Quality Inspector
Quality Technician
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key 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
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $34,590. 25th percentile: U.S. $38,740. 50th percentile: U.S. $47,460. 75th percentile: U.S. $59,970. 90th percentile: U.S. $75,510. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
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
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
