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Entry Level Six Sigma Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Quality Manager Job Type: Entry Level Quality / Testing Inspector Job Summary: We are seeking a ... Lean/Six Sigma experience Experience with QC-Calc and Inspection Expert ISO internal/external audit ...

Quality Manager Job Type: Entry Level Quality / Testing Inspector Job Summary: We are seeking a ... Six Sigma experience · Experience with QC-Calc and Inspection Expert · ISO internal/external ...

Quality Inspector

Commerce, CA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Quality Manager Job Type: Entry Level Quality / Testing Inspector Job Summary: We are seeking a ... Lean/Six Sigma experience • Experience with QC-Calc and Inspection Expert • ISO internal ...

Entry Level Six Sigma information

See California salary details

$20.1K

$59.2K

$143.9K

How much do entry level six sigma jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level six sigma in California is $59,238.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31,335.00 and $70,014.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level Six Sigma job?

Entry level Six Sigma jobs are positions designed for individuals who are new to the Six Sigma methodology and typically hold certifications such as Six Sigma White Belt or Yellow Belt. These roles often involve supporting process improvement projects, collecting and analyzing data, and assisting with problem-solving initiatives under the guidance of more experienced Six Sigma practitioners. Entry level positions provide foundational experience in quality management, process optimization, and teamwork, serving as a stepping stone to more advanced Six Sigma roles. Candidates in these jobs can expect to learn the basics of Six Sigma tools and techniques while contributing to organizational efficiency goals.

What types of projects are typically assigned to entry level Six Sigma professionals, and how do these projects contribute to team goals?

Entry-level Six Sigma professionals are often assigned to support process improvement initiatives by collecting data, mapping workflows, and assisting with root cause analysis. These projects are usually smaller in scope but directly contribute to the team's overall goal of enhancing efficiency and reducing waste. Working on these initiatives provides valuable hands-on experience and opportunities to collaborate with cross-functional teams, laying a strong foundation for more complex responsibilities as you advance in your Six Sigma career.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level Six Sigma professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Six Sigma professional, you need a basic understanding of process improvement methodologies, data analysis, and quality management principles, often supported by a Six Sigma Yellow or Green Belt certification. Familiarity with tools like Microsoft Excel, Minitab, and process mapping software is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with teams and identify improvement opportunities. These skills and qualities are crucial for driving operational efficiency and supporting continuous improvement initiatives within organizations.

What is the difference between Entry Level Six Sigma vs Quality Assurance Technician?

AspectEntry Level Six SigmaQuality Assurance Technician
CertificationsGreen Belt or Yellow Belt often preferredISO certifications, QA-specific training
Work EnvironmentManufacturing, process improvement projectsProduct testing, inspection, manufacturing settings
Industry UsageManufacturing, healthcare, financeManufacturing, software, healthcare

Both roles focus on quality and process improvement but differ in scope. Entry Level Six Sigma emphasizes data-driven problem solving and process optimization, often requiring Green or Yellow Belt certifications. Quality Assurance Technicians focus on product quality, testing, and compliance. While they share industry overlap, Six Sigma roles are more strategic, whereas QA Technicians are more operational.

What are the most commonly searched types of Six Sigma jobs in California?

The most popular types of Six Sigma jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Six Sigma job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 10% Temporary, and 10% Nights. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $59,238 per year, or $28.5 per hour.

$76K - $114K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


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Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

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Job description

Career Area:
Job Description:
Your Work Shapes the World at Caterpillar Inc.
When you join Caterpillar, you're joining a global team who cares not just about the work we do - but also about each other. We are the makers, problem solvers, and future world builders who are creating stronger, more sustainable communities. We don't just talk about progress and innovation here - we make it happen, with our customers, where we work and live. Together, we are building a better world, so we can all enjoy living in it.
2027 Entry Level Supply Chain Buyer
The buyer position is responsible for day-to-day and strategic supplier management including, but not limited to purchase order placement, follow-up, and issue resolution; communication of demand and forecasts; preparing contracts and assist in negotiating contract terms; managing supplier relationships and performance metrics; communicating and mitigating risk that could impact Solar's ability to meet the business plan.
A Buyer acts with a sense of urgency and is diligent in providing timely support to internal clients and external customers. This individual operates in compliance with corporate and Supply Chain policies and procedures. A Buyer may manage relationships of several non-strategic suppliers as well as a select few strategic or complex suppliers. This position may be located centrally or in regional offices. This individual has no direct reports but works within a team structure typically including a Sourcing Specialist, Supply Chain Coordinator/Planner, Supplier Technical Engineer, Supplier Development Engineer, and reports directly to a Site Sourcing Manager or Supply Chain Manager. There is an expectation to participate on projects from conception to completion that directly support to organizational objectives.
The primary functions of the job include but are not limited to:
  • Supply Chain Management

  • Contract Management

  • Negotiation

  • Supplier Selection & Management

  • Cost Management

  • Purchasing Execution

The work environment is mostly office based; however, this position may visit internal production areas as well as external supplier sites, which may involve domestic and/or international travel.
Principal Accountabilities:
  • Continuously practices and demonstrates Safety and acts in adherence to Our Values in Action.

  • Effectively evaluates, improves, and sustains supplier performance, including but not limited to: quality, cost, delivery, lead-time, bid & proposal turn-times, project & field support, etc.
    Identifies opportunities for cost reduction.

  • Seeks assistance to utilize cost modeling techniques and analyze TCO to ensure the best overall value to Solar.

  • Manages and maintains the supplier relationship at a day-to-day and strategic level. Day-to-day activities include purchase order issuance and maintenance, grief resolution, and business review meetings.

  • Strategic activities include working with the Supply Chain Leadership and/or Sourcing Specialist to define the buyer-supplier relationship that determines as well as executes the strategic direction (Hold, Grow, Consolidate, Exit).

  • Assists and participates in commercial negotiations and is accountable for contract execution and maintenance.

  • Participates in and supports cross functional teaming in supplier development, problem resolution, and continuous improvement efforts.

  • Supports new product introduction, global strategic sourcing, and supplier selection to ensure flexible capacity and consistent supply from qualified suppliers to support business objectives.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Overall GPA of at least 2.8 on a 4.0 scale.

  • The position requires a bachelor's degree
    Experience with ERP software and proficiency with MS Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Visio)

  • Fluent in Business English in written and oral form.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in business, Engineering, Supply Chain, or another related field

  • Prior internship or previous work experience in Supply Chain

  • Supply Chain Certification from a professional institution (APICS, IIPMR, ISCEA, ISM, etc.)

  • Understanding and demonstration of 6-Sigma and Lean Manufacturing principles.

  • 6-Sigma Blackbelt Certification.

Summary Pay Range:
$76,542.00 - $114,814.00
Compensation and benefits offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, job level, market location, job-related knowledge, skills, individual performance and experience. Please note that salary is only one component of total compensation at Caterpillar.
Benefits:
Subject to plan eligibility, terms, and guidelines. This is a summary list of benefits.
  • Medical, dental, and vision benefits*
  • Paid time off plan (Vacation, Holidays, Volunteer, etc.)*
  • 401(k) savings plans*
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)*
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)*
  • Health Lifestyle Programs*
  • Employee Assistance Program*
  • Voluntary Benefits and Employee Discounts*
  • Career Development*
  • Incentive bonus*
  • Disability benefits
  • Life Insurance
  • Parental leave
  • Adoption benefits
  • Tuition Reimbursement

This position requires working onsite five days a week.
Relocation is available for this position.
Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.
Posting Dates:
July 23, 2026 - December 30, 2026
Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen.
Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer, Including Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply.
Not ready to apply? Join our Talent Community.

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