Inspector (Industrial)
PrintWork Tasks
INDUSTRIAL INSPECTORS monitor or audit quality standards for virtually all manufactured goods, including foods, textiles, clothing, auto body parts, motor vehicles, electronic parts, computers, and glassware. Inspectors guarantee the quality of the goods their firm produces. Industrial inspectors reject defective goods, and mark, tag, or note problems. They prepare inspection and test reports. Industrial inspectors notify supervisors of problems, and help analyze and correct production problems.
Salary, Size & Growth
- $45,000 average per year ($21.75 per hour)
- A large occupation (410,800 workers in 2010)
- Expected to decline (0.4% per year)
Entry Requirements
Training requirements vary depending upon the responsibilities of the INDUSTRIAL INSPECTOR. For workers who perform simple pass/fail tests on products, a high school diploma is sufficient and training is usually on-the-job. There are some post-secondary training programs in testing, but many employers prefer to train inspectors on the job. Complex precision inspecting positions are filled by experienced assemblers, machine operators, or mechanics that have knowledge about the products and production processes. To advance to these positions, experienced workers may need training in statistical process control, new automation, or the company's quality assurance policies.