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Entry Level Quality Control Inspector Jobs in Maine

Western Global Airlines

QC Inspector

Limestone, ME · On-site

QC Inspector - Aviation Join the World's Fastest Growing Cargo Airline! Are you an experienced aviation professional with a passion for safety, quality, and aircraft airworthiness? We are seeking a ...

Western Global Airlines

QC Inspector

Limestone, ME

QC Inspector - AviationJoin the World's Fastest Growing Cargo Airline! Are you an experienced aviation professional with a passion for safety, quality, and aircraft airworthiness? We are seeking a ...

Abbott

Quality Control Technician

Scarborough, ME · On-site

$19 - $24.25/hr

Quality Control Technician Location: Scarborough, Maine Duration: 6 Months Shifts: 8:00AM - 4:30PM ... Knowledge of enzyme and/or immunochromatographic assays, inspection/measurement systems, systematic ...

McCain Foods

Inspector

Washburn, ME

$20/hr

... control points including metal detection, weight checks, and in-process quality checksCommunicate non-conforming material issues to Quality Assurance (QA) and Production teamsMaintain accurate ...

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Inspector

Washburn, ME

$20/hr

Inspector Position Type: Regular - Full-Time Requisition ID: 43025 McCrum is a division of McCain ... Monitor critical control points including metal detection, weight checks, and in-process quality ...

McCain Foods Limited

Inspector

Washburn, ME · On-site

$20/hr

Inspector Position Type: Regular - Full-Time Requisition ID: 43025 McCrum is a division of McCain ... Monitor critical control points including metal detection, weight checks, and in-process quality ...

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All JobsQuality Control Inspector JobsEntry Level Quality Control Inspector JobsEntry Level Quality Control Inspector Jobs in Maine

Entry Level Quality Control Inspector information

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How much do entry level quality control inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level quality control inspector in Maine is $20.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.78 and $23.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level quality control inspectors, and how can they be addressed?

Entry level quality control inspectors often face challenges such as learning to identify subtle defects, understanding complex product specifications, and adapting to fast-paced production environments. To overcome these challenges, new inspectors can benefit from thorough training, seeking feedback from experienced colleagues, and consistently referencing quality standards. Collaborating closely with production and engineering teams also helps clarify expectations and improve inspection accuracy. With time and practice, inspectors typically develop sharper attention to detail and greater confidence in their assessments.

Is QC inspection a good career?

Quality Control (QC) inspection is a stable entry-level career that involves examining products or materials to ensure they meet quality standards. It often requires attention to detail, familiarity with inspection tools, and may lead to advancement into supervisory or specialized roles in manufacturing or quality management.

How do I become a quality control inspector?

To become a quality control inspector, typically a high school diploma or equivalent is required, along with on-the-job training or relevant certifications. Developing skills in attention to detail, inspection tools, and understanding quality standards is essential; some roles may require knowledge of specific industry regulations or software. Entry-level positions often provide training, but prior experience or technical training can improve job prospects.

What is the difference between Entry Level Quality Control Inspector vs Quality Assurance Technician?

AspectEntry Level Quality Control InspectorQuality Assurance Technician
CertificationsBasic quality control certifications or on-the-job trainingOften requires certifications like ASQ CQPA or related training
Work EnvironmentManufacturing, production lines, warehousesLaboratories, production facilities, quality departments
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, automotive, electronicsPharmaceuticals, food production, manufacturing
Job FocusInspecting products for defects, measuring, testingDeveloping quality processes, audits, compliance

While both roles focus on quality, the Entry Level Quality Control Inspector primarily conducts product inspections and measurements on the production line. In contrast, the Quality Assurance Technician often works on developing and maintaining quality systems, performing audits, and ensuring compliance with standards. Both roles are essential in manufacturing but differ in scope and responsibilities.

How to become a QC inspector with no experience?

To become an entry-level quality control inspector with no experience, focus on developing attention to detail, basic understanding of quality standards, and familiarity with inspection tools. Completing a high school diploma or equivalent is typically required, and some employers offer on-the-job training or may prefer candidates with certifications such as ASQ's Certified Quality Inspector (CQI). Gaining knowledge of manufacturing processes and quality control procedures can improve your chances of starting in this role.

Is QA a good entry-level job?

Entry-level quality control inspector roles are suitable for individuals seeking to start in manufacturing or production environments. These jobs typically require attention to detail, basic inspection skills, and sometimes certifications like a quality assurance or safety training. They offer opportunities to gain industry experience and develop skills in quality standards and inspection tools.

What does an Entry Level Quality Control Inspector do?

An Entry Level Quality Control Inspector is responsible for examining products and materials to ensure they meet specific standards of quality. This typically involves visual inspections, measuring products, and recording the results of tests. Inspectors may also identify defects, report issues to supervisors, and help maintain clean and safe work environments. Their work is essential for ensuring that only products meeting company and regulatory standards reach customers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Quality Control Inspector, and why are they important?

To excel as an Entry Level Quality Control Inspector, you need keen attention to detail, basic math skills, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with measurement tools like calipers, micrometers, and quality management systems (QMS) is typically required. Strong observation, communication, and teamwork skills help inspectors spot defects and collaborate effectively with production teams. These abilities are crucial for maintaining product standards, ensuring safety, and supporting efficient manufacturing processes.
Entry Level Quality Control Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Quality Control Inspector job openings in Maine as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,248 per year, or $20.8 per hour.

Quality Control Inspector

Knox Machine Company

Warren, ME • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Position Overview
Knox Machine is seeking a highly detail-oriented Quality Control (QC) Inspector to support the production of precision-machined components for aerospace and defense applications. This role is critical to ensuring that all manufactured parts meet stringent customer, regulatory, and industry standards. The QC Inspector operates at the intersection of engineering, manufacturing, and compliance—verifying dimensional accuracy, material integrity, and process adherence across a wide range of complex components.

 

Key Responsibilities

  • Dimensional Inspection & Verification
    Perform first article, in-process, and final inspections of precision-machined components using a variety of measurement tools and techniques. Materials inspected include high-performance alloys such as stainless steel, aluminum, titanium, and specialty aerospace metals.
  • Blueprint & Technical Data Interpretation
    Read and interpret complex engineering drawings, geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T), and customer specifications to determine inspection requirements and acceptance criteria.
  • Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) Operation & Programming
    Program, set up, and operate CMM equipment to conduct automated, high-precision dimensional inspections. Optimize inspection routines for efficiency while maintaining accuracy and repeatability.
  • Documentation & Certification
    Generate inspection reports, first article inspection reports (FAIRs), and certificates of conformance (CoCs). Ensure all documentation aligns with aerospace quality standards and customer requirements (e.g., AS9100).
  • Calibration & Metrology
    Perform calibration and verification of precision measuring instruments, including micrometers, calipers, height gauges, and bore gauges. Maintain traceability to national standards and ensure compliance with internal calibration schedules.
  • Nonconformance & Quality Assurance Support
    Identify, document, and communicate nonconforming products. Collaborate with manufacturing and engineering teams to support root cause analysis and corrective actions.

 

Context
This role represents applied metrology and quality systems engineering in a real-world manufacturing environment. It integrates theoretical knowledge—such as tolerancing, materials science, and statistical quality control—with hands-on technical execution. The QC Inspector serves as a gatekeeper of product integrity, ensuring that every component meets mission-critical performance standards in highly regulated aerospace and defense applications.

Company Description

Knox Machine Company is a manufacturer and strategic supplier of precision machined parts, mechanical sub-assemblies, and pre-packaged component kits. For over 49 years, Knox Machine has been providing all facets of industry with high-quality close tolerance machining and superior customer service.