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Apprentice Inspector Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Laser Operator Apprentice

Merrifield, MN · On-site

$19.25 - $20.80/hr

As a Laser Operator Apprentice, you will: * Learn to set up and operate laser cutting machines ... Inspect finished parts, remove excess material (detabbing), and organize or stack parts according ...

As a Laser Operator Apprentice, you will: * Learn to set up and operate laser cutting machines ... Inspect finished parts, remove excess material (detabbing), and organize or stack parts according ...

Laser Operator Apprentice

Merrifield, MN · On-site

$19.25 - $20.80/hr

As a Laser Operator Apprentice, you will: * Learn to set up and operate laser cutting machines ... Inspect finished parts, remove excess material (detabbing), and organize or stack parts according ...

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Apprentice Inspector information

See Minnesota salary details

$12

$21

$36

How much do apprentice inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice inspector in Minnesota is $21.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.97 and $23.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Apprentice Inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Apprentice Inspector, you need a basic understanding of inspection processes, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with measurement tools, inspection software, and safety regulations is often required, and some positions may prefer candidates with relevant certifications like OSHA or industry-specific credentials. Strong observational skills, effective communication, and a willingness to learn help set successful Apprentice Inspectors apart. These skills and qualities are crucial for accurately identifying issues, ensuring compliance, and supporting quality assurance in various industries.

What are the typical responsibilities and learning opportunities for an Apprentice Inspector during the first year on the job?

As an Apprentice Inspector, your first year will often focus on shadowing experienced inspectors, conducting basic inspections under supervision, and learning to use industry-standard tools and reporting systems. You'll gradually take on more responsibility, such as assisting with documentation, identifying compliance issues, and communicating findings to both internal teams and clients. This hands-on experience provides a strong foundation in inspection protocols, regulatory requirements, and quality assurance, paving the way for career advancement to a full inspector role. Expect to work closely with mentors and colleagues, gaining valuable feedback and practical skills that are essential for success in the field.

What are Apprentice Inspectors?

Apprentice Inspectors are entry-level professionals who work under the supervision of experienced inspectors to learn how to conduct inspections of buildings, equipment, or processes according to industry standards and regulations. Their responsibilities typically include assisting with inspections, documenting findings, and gaining hands-on experience in the field. Over time, they develop the skills and knowledge required to become fully qualified inspectors in their chosen industry.

What is the difference between Apprentice Inspector vs Building Inspector?

AspectApprentice InspectorBuilding Inspector
Required CredentialsOn-the-job training, some certificationsState licensing, certifications, experience
Work EnvironmentTraining sites, supervised settingsInspection sites, government or private firms
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction companies, government agenciesMunicipalities, private inspection firms
Comparison Search IntentLearning role, entry-level positionPerforming inspections, certification

Apprentice Inspectors are entry-level professionals gaining hands-on experience under supervision, often with minimal certifications. Building Inspectors are fully qualified professionals responsible for inspecting structures to ensure code compliance, typically holding certifications and licenses. The apprentice role is a stepping stone toward becoming a licensed Building Inspector, with the main differences being experience level and certification status.

What are the most commonly searched types of Inspector jobs in Minnesota? The most popular types of Inspector jobs in Minnesota are:
Infographic showing various Apprentice Inspector job openings in Minnesota as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,863 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Quality Inspector- 1st Shift

Hutchinson Mfg Holdings, LLC

Minneapolis, MN • On-site

$26 - $32/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Mid Continent Engineering is seeking a Quality Inspector to join our team! This is a 1st Shift- 6 am to 4:30 pm, Monday through Thursday opportunity.

Mid-Continent has been a supplier to first-tier OEMs within the medical, aerospace and defense industries for decades. Mid-Continent Engineering stuffs the armed forces supply chain with products of our capabilities such as precision machining, aerospace welding, chromate conversion, paint/powder coat finishing, mechanical assemblies, and other design-assist services.

A few things we have to offer:

  • Competitive Wages
  • Medical, Dental & Vision for employee & family including domestic partners.
  • 401k with match
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • PTO accrual starts immediately.
  • Yearly shoe allowance
  • Referral Program

Summary:

Develop and/or adapt inspection equipment to meet quality control standards, make suggestions regarding procedures, standards, methods, and equipment to facilitate work and maintain product quality.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities include the following:

  • Advanced quality control activities such as mechanical inspection, CMM, special process verification (welding, painting, plating) and internal auditing.
  • Set-up and operate all quality equipment for use in accomplishing quality assurance.
  • Perform complex inspection procedures using precision testing equipment.
  • First Piece Inspections, FAI, Completing AS9102’s. Preparing FAI submissions.
  • Handle all receiving, in-process and final inspection for quality, appearance, and compliance with customer specifications, for complicated parts and assemblies with little to no supervision.
  • Determine the reason for product defects and communicates to others.
  • Support and maintain raw material, hardware certifications, C of C’s, Reject Reports, CAPA databases and Inspection Records
  • Investigate and determine direct cause/root cause of problems and implement corrective actions of non-conformances with the production supervisors.
  • Maintain discipline, morale, and harmonious relations among employees.
  • Support and maintain the Quality Management System and the Quality Records
  • Perform other duties, as assigned.

Education & Experience:

  • Education equivalent to a complete accredited apprenticeship training; or a degree from an accredited university or college; or equivalent work experience of 3-5 years’ experience in Quality Control in a manufacturing environment with minimum education requirement of High School Diploma or G.E.D.
  • Prefer experience with Inspection and Quality Control methods, techniques, and equipment
  • Knowledge of use of a wide variety of measuring instruments and complicated drawings.
  • Must have experience working with Microsoft Office products, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access, etc.
  • Blueprint reading/GD&T basic knowledge
  • Effective communication skills; written and verbal comprehension; organizational skills
  • Can work well within teams or groups.
  • Working knowledge of PCs and various, computer software. Epicor ERP Software experience is a plus.
  • Set up and operate all equipment in the department.
  • Exposure to statistical process control
  • Ability to identify/analyze problems and offer solutions.

Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand; walk; use of hands, fingers, feet, and hands to reach with arms. The ability to talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to sit; climb or balance and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision.

Work Environment:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Employees must be able to cope with Minnesota climate variances, endure heat & cold conditions in the shop. Endure heavy workloads, high noise levels from hammering, and grinding (hearing protection provided). Protect against metal particles, fumes, sparks, particles, and gases (safety glasses, safety-toed boots, ear plugs, and gloves provided per the company policy guidelines).

Individuals working in an office setting will not endure some of the physical & work environments conditions of the production floor unless office is adjacent to the production floor or per the individuals job duties and/ or responsibilities. All office personnel must abide by the PPE guidelines (safety glasses, safety-toed boots that are provided per the company policy guidelines) when entering the production floor or if a requirement of a department that individual is entering or working in.


6 am to 4:30 pm- Monday through Thursday