A quality analyst or inspector checks materials and finished goods for a manufacturer to ensure that products meet industry code and customer standards. With a keen eye for detail and accuracy, and a basic understanding of engineering equipment and processes, you land a career with a diploma, certification or simply on-the-job training.
Math Skills
One of the most important skills for quality control professionals is strong math abilities. Given that finished batches may include hundreds or thousands of products, it is impractical to test every one. A quality control employee must decide the right number of goods to sample using basic statistical assessments of sample size. Additionally, some machinery requires basic calibration and geometrical awareness for effective testing procedures.
Industry Competence
The technical competence required of quality control professionals relates to an understanding of the particular industry. This is the focal point of much of the on-the-job training. In your particular field, you need to understand product blueprints, technical documents that outline design specifications, and manuals and papers that outline quality specifications. These technical competencies help you in performing quality checks and in communicating results internally and with clients.
Physical Abilities
Some quality control jobs have little physical involvement, but many require that you have a basic level of physical strength, stamina and manual dexterity. Some of the testing equipment is heavy and requires movement before, during and after tests. You may also have to lift, move and position heavy finished goods for testing. Manipulation of equipment, tools and parts during the testing process also requires hand strength and dexterity.
Communication and Service Orientation
A quality control worker also needs good communication skills and a client service orientation. Verbal and written communication abilities are necessary to alert production managers and staff about defects or quality problems. You might also interact directly with customers in confirming quality control standards, following up on checks, and sharing additional information while making improvements. A service orientation helps you have the right perspective to complete your tasks thoroughly and ensure a satisfying result for customers.
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Writer Bio
Neil Kokemuller has been an active business, finance and education writer and content media website developer since 2007. He has been a college marketing professor since 2004. Kokemuller has additional professional experience in marketing, retail and small business. He holds a Master of Business Administration from Iowa State University.