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Associate Inspector Jobs in San Jose, CA (NOW HIRING)

FQA Inspector - Level 2 Job Function: Manufacturing Quality Reports To: Manager, QE and QA, Unigen ... Associate's degree in Electronics or Quality Management preferred. * IPC-A-610 Class 2 & Class 3 ...

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We're currently seeking a Certified Welding inspector to join our team in Pleasanton, CA . This is a great opportunity for a seasoned Welding Inspector that values technical excellence. The ideal ...

... Inspector with a global, research-driven pharmaceutical manufacturer focused on developing ... High school degree + minimum 1 year work experience in GMP regulated industry Associates/Bachelor ...

Senior QA/QC Inspector

Fremont, CA ยท On-site

$34.28/hr

The Senior QA/QC Inspector plays a critical role in maintaining quality standards, supporting ... where associates excel based on personal merit, qualifications, experience, ability, and job ...

Quality Associate

Oakland, CA ยท On-site

$19 - $22/hr

The Level II Associate shows judgement and responsibility in knowing when to reject, how to ... Inspect and measure working to drawings and procedures. * Focus on either purchased or produced ...

Quality Associate

Oakland, CA ยท On-site

$19 - $22/hr

The Level II Associate shows judgement and responsibility in knowing when to reject, how to ... Inspect and measure working to drawings and procedures. * Focus on either purchased or produced ...

Warehouse Associate

South San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$19.25 - $22.75/hr

Your position requires you to inspect pallets to ensure the product matches the SKU. Diligent ... Values We value our associates, customers, and vendors. As a result, we will acknowledge exemplary ...

Warehouse Associate

South San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$19.25 - $22.75/hr

Your position requires you to inspect pallets to ensure the product matches the SKU. Diligent ... Values We value our associates, customers, and vendors. As a result, we will acknowledge exemplary ...

Warehouse Associate

San Jose, CA ยท On-site

$18.75 - $22.25/hr

Your position requires you to inspect pallets to ensure the product matches the SKU. Diligent ... Values We value our associates, customers, and vendors. As a result, we will acknowledge exemplary ...

Showing results 41-60

Associate Inspector information

See San Jose, CA salary details

$28.7K

$64.4K

$116K

How much do associate inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate inspector in San Jose, CA is $64,388.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,100.00 and $74,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an associate inspector?

Associate Inspectors are entry-level professionals who assist in examining materials, products, or processes to ensure they meet specified standards and regulations. They typically work under the supervision of senior inspectors, performing tasks such as conducting inspections, documenting findings, and preparing reports. Associate Inspectors are found in various industries, including construction, manufacturing, and public safety, and their work helps maintain quality, safety, and compliance. This role often serves as a stepping stone to more advanced inspection or supervisory positions.

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

To thrive as an Associate Inspector, you need a solid understanding of inspection procedures, regulatory standards, and quality assurance principles, often supported by a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with inspection tools, reporting software, and industry-specific compliance systems is typically required. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective communication are standout soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities ensure accurate inspections, regulatory compliance, and clear reporting, all of which are crucial for maintaining safety and quality standards.

What are some common challenges associate inspectors face when working on-site, and how can they effectively address them?

Associate Inspectors often encounter challenges such as navigating changing site conditions, ensuring compliance with evolving regulations, and communicating findings to diverse stakeholders. To address these, it's important to stay current with industry standards, develop strong observational skills, and foster clear communication with site managers and team members. Proactive problem-solving and adaptability are key to successfully managing unexpected situations and maintaining high-quality inspection standards.

What is the difference between Associate Inspector vs Construction Inspector?

AspectAssociate InspectorConstruction Inspector
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationsHigh school diploma; often requires certifications like NICET or state-specific licenses
Work EnvironmentOffice and fieldwork, inspecting construction sites and projectsPrimarily on-site inspections of construction projects
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in government agencies, private firms, and construction companiesCommonly employed by government agencies, engineering firms, and construction companies
Comparison Search IntentYesYes

The main difference between an Associate Inspector and a Construction Inspector lies in experience and certification requirements. Construction Inspectors typically have more specialized certifications and extensive field experience, whereas Associate Inspectors are often entry-level roles supporting inspection activities. Both roles work in similar environments and industries, focusing on ensuring construction quality and compliance.

What type of associate inspectors make the most money?

Senior or specialized associate inspectors, such as those with advanced certifications or expertise in high-demand industries like construction, environmental, or safety inspection, tend to earn higher salaries. Experience, industry, and additional skills like technical knowledge or leadership responsibilities also contribute to increased earnings in this role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Inspector jobs in San Jose, CA?

The most popular types of Inspector jobs in San Jose, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Associate Inspector jobs in San Jose, CA?

For Associate Inspector jobs in San Jose, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Associate Inspector jobs in San Jose, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Associate Inspector jobs in San Jose, CA are:

What cities near San Jose, CA are hiring for Associate Inspector jobs?

Cities near San Jose, CA with the most Associate Inspector job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate Inspector job openings in San Jose, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,388 per year, or $31 per hour.

QA Inspector 2 - FQA- Day Shift

Unigen

Newark, CA โ€ข On-site

$22 - $27/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

About Unigen
Unigen is a global technology company providing innovative electronics manufacturing and product solutions to customers across diverse industries. With decades of industry experience and operations in key global markets, we combine engineering expertise, advanced manufacturing capabilities, and responsive customer service to deliver reliable, high-quality solutions—from product development through production and fulfillment.

Location and Work Arrangement
This position is based in Newark, California and is onsite.

Benefits
Unigen offers a competitive compensation and benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage; a 401(k) plan; paid time off; paid holidays; and professional development opportunities. Benefits are subject to eligibility requirements and applicable plan terms.

Job Title: FQA Inspector – Level 2
Job Function: Manufacturing Quality 
Reports To: Manager, QE and QA, Unigen HQ, Newark, CA

Job Overview

The Level 2 Final Quality Assurance (FQA) Inspector performs advanced-level inspections on PCBA and box build products, ensuring compliance with regulatory, customer, and internal quality standards. This role involves handling high-complexity inspections, mentoring Level 1 inspectors, participating in root cause analysis, and recommending corrective actions. The Level 2 Inspector works with minimal supervision and plays an active role in continuous process improvement initiatives.

Primary Job Responsibilities

1. Advanced Inspection & Testing

  • Perform comprehensive cosmetic, dimensional, functional, and compliance inspections for all product lines, including complex PCBA and box build assemblies.
  • Ensure finished product compliance with ISO 9001, ISO 13485, ISO 14001, ESD control procedures, and customer-specific quality requirements.
  • Conduct inspections in accordance with IPC-610 Class 2 and Class 3 standards.
  • Identify and document nonconforming solder joint defects on PTH and SMT components, and verify repair/rework effectiveness.
  • Operate and interpret results from advanced test equipment (e.g., AOI, functional testers, continuity testers, X-ray inspection systems).
  • Lead FAI verification for high-priority projects and new product launches.

2. Documentation & Reporting

  • Accurately record inspection results in the MRP/QMS systems, ensuring traceability and compliance documentation is complete.
  • Review and approve Certificates of Conformance (CoCs), inspection reports, and shipment documentation.
  • Maintain detailed inspection records for internal audits, customer audits, and regulatory compliance.

3. Mentorship & Team Support

  • Provide on-the-job training to Level 1 inspectors and new hires on inspection techniques, tools, and standards.
  • Review and verify inspection results performed by junior inspectors before final approval.
  • Support cross-functional teams during nonconformance investigations and root cause analysis.
  • Share best practices and actively participate in process improvement initiatives.

4. Equipment & Process Maintenance

  • Ensure inspection and test equipment is calibrated, maintained, and functioning optimally.
  • Recommend updates to inspection checklists and procedures to improve efficiency and accuracy.
  • Identify recurring defects and work with engineering to improve manufacturing process quality.

Required Education & Experience

  • High School Diploma or equivalent; Associate’s degree in Electronics or Quality Management preferred.
  • IPC-A-610 Class 2 & Class 3 certification required.
  • Minimum 7 years experience in First Article, In-Process, FQA, or Receiving Inspection in an EMS environment.
  • Strong ability to interpret technical drawings, BOMs, MPIs, ECNs, deviations, and specifications.
  • Proficiency with inspection tools: microscope, calipers, DMM, AOI, X-ray.
  • Experience in MRP/QMS systems and MS Office Suite.
  • Knowledge of ISO 9001, ISO 13485, ISO 14001 quality systems.