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Lead Quality Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Lead Quality Inspector serves as the technical leader of the inspection team, ensuring the consistent execution of inspection activities while supporting production, engineering, and quality ...

Lead Quality Inspector

Plainsboro, NJ ยท On-site

$26.21 - $35.38/hr

The Lead Quality Inspector serves as a Lead Associate, Quality Inspector for the Plainsboro Manufacturing Site, Collagen Manufacturing Center (CMC). The lead associate is responsible for performing ...

ABOUT THE JOB Anduril is seeking a Lead Quality Inspector to join our rapidly growing manufacturing team. In this role, you will work with cutting-edge technology aimed at advancing the state-of-the ...

Maintains inspection records and completes inspection reports. * Leads internal quality team in timely and efficient decision making. * Demonstrates the ability to organize and strategically ...

Lead QC Inspector The Lead QC Inspector performs incoming, in-process, and final inspections of precision-machined components, assemblies, and electromechanical products to ensure full compliance ...

Lead QC Inspector

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$25/hr

Lead QC Inspector (Precision Machining): We are hiring a skilled Lead QC Inspector to oversee inspection operations in a precision machining environment and ensure machined components meet customer ...

As a Lead Quality Control Inspector, you will serve as the final safeguard between precision-engineered components and the advanced systems trusted by the world's leading semiconductor manufacturers.

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Job Summary We are seeking an experienced Lead Quality Inspector to oversee quality assurance and control processes within our aerospace manufacturing facility. The ideal candidate will ensure ...

Be Seen First

Job Summary We are seeking an experienced Lead Quality Inspector to oversee quality assurance and control processes within our aerospace manufacturing facility. The ideal candidate will ensure ...

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Lead Quality Inspector information

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How much do lead quality inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead quality inspector in the United States is $20.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Are quality inspectors in demand?

Quality inspectors are in steady demand across manufacturing, construction, and healthcare industries, especially as companies focus on compliance and product safety. Employment prospects are strong for those with technical skills, attention to detail, and certifications such as ASQ certifications. The role often requires familiarity with inspection tools and quality management systems.

What are the common challenges faced by a Lead Quality Inspector and how can they be managed effectively?

As a Lead Quality Inspector, one common challenge is balancing thoroughness with efficiency, ensuring all products meet standards without causing production delays. Managing a team with varying experience levels can also require strong communication and training skills. Effective inspectors proactively address these issues by implementing clear inspection protocols, facilitating regular team meetings, and staying updated on quality management best practices. Collaboration with production and engineering teams is key to resolving issues quickly and maintaining high quality standards.

What does a QC lead do?

A QC lead, or Quality Control lead, oversees inspection processes to ensure products meet quality standards. They coordinate testing, review inspection results, and implement corrective actions, often using tools like checklists and quality management systems. Strong attention to detail and knowledge of industry standards are essential for this role.

How much do quality inspectors earn?

Quality inspectors typically earn a median annual salary of around $40,000 to $50,000, depending on experience, industry, and location. Entry-level inspectors may earn less, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages, often working full-time shifts in manufacturing, production, or inspection environments.

What is the difference between Lead Quality Inspector vs Quality Inspector?

AspectLead Quality InspectorQuality Inspector
CertificationsOften requires certifications like ASQ CQI or equivalentMay require similar certifications, but less emphasis on leadership
Work EnvironmentLeads inspection teams, oversees quality processesPerforms inspections under supervision, follows established procedures
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in manufacturing, aerospace, automotive sectorsCommon across similar industries, often entry to mid-level

The main difference between a Lead Quality Inspector and a Quality Inspector is the level of responsibility. The Lead Quality Inspector supervises inspection teams, manages quality procedures, and ensures compliance, while the Quality Inspector primarily performs inspections and reports findings. Both roles require similar certifications and work in comparable environments, but the lead position involves additional leadership duties.

What does a Lead Quality Inspector do?

A Lead Quality Inspector oversees and coordinates quality control processes within a manufacturing or production environment. They are responsible for inspecting products, ensuring they meet established standards, and leading a team of quality inspectors. The role involves developing inspection procedures, documenting findings, and collaborating with other departments to resolve quality issues. Lead Quality Inspectors also train and mentor junior staff and may participate in audits to maintain compliance with regulatory requirements.

What kind of inspectors make the most money?

Senior quality inspectors, especially those with specialized skills or certifications such as Six Sigma or ASQ certifications, tend to earn higher salaries. Inspectors working in high-demand industries like aerospace, pharmaceuticals, or manufacturing often have higher pay due to the complexity and critical nature of their work.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lead Quality Inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lead Quality Inspector, you need expertise in quality control procedures, inspection techniques, and a solid understanding of industry standards, typically supported by experience in manufacturing or a related field. Familiarity with measurement tools, statistical process control (SPC) software, and certifications like ASQ Certified Quality Inspector are commonly required. Strong attention to detail, leadership, and effective communication are vital soft skills for coordinating teams and ensuring compliance. These skills and qualifications are essential for maintaining product quality, minimizing defects, and ensuring regulatory requirements are consistently met.
More about Lead Quality Inspector jobs
What states have the most Lead Quality Inspector jobs? States with the most job openings for Lead Quality Inspector jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Lead Quality Inspector jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Lead Quality Inspector jobs are:
Infographic showing various Lead Quality Inspector job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,417 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

Lead Quality Inspector

RTCA

Simi Valley, CA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

RTCA is a precision aerospace and defense manufacturing group built on decades of hands-on machining expertise, with roots spanning more than 50 years. We support mission-critical commercial and government aerospace programs across North America through four U.S. Centers of Excellence operating as an integrated platform with 150+ CNC machines and a team of 250+ professionals.

Unlike large organizations where roles can be narrow, RTCA offers hands-on ownership and real visibility – you understand how your work supports the team, the operation, and the end customer. Our flat structure allows employees to take initiative, grow their skills, and have their contributions recognized, while still providing the stability, advanced technology, and meaningful work of an established aerospace manufacturer.

At RTCA, we believe in teamwork, excellence, and delivering with pride. One Team! One Mission!

How You’ll Make an Impact:

The Lead Quality Inspector serves as the technical leader of the inspection team, ensuring the consistent execution of inspection activities while supporting production, engineering, and quality objectives within a precision manufacturing environment. In addition to performing advanced inspections, this role provides day-to-day guidance to Quality Inspectors, coordinates inspection priorities, assists with quality investigations, supports audits, and promotes continuous improvement initiatives. The Lead Quality Inspector acts as a subject matter expert, helping maintain compliance with customer requirements, engineering specifications, AS9100 quality standards, and regulatory requirements while fostering a culture of quality and accountability.


What you’ll be doing as a Lead Quality Inspector:

  • Working a full-time, onsite position at our Simi Valley, CA location.
  • Working a full-time, onsite position at our City, State location. (Edit for Job Ad Only)
  • Perform advanced dimensional and visual inspections of raw materials, in-process components, assemblies, and finished products using precision measurement equipment.
  • Coordinate daily inspection priorities and workflow to support production schedules and customer delivery requirements.
  • Provide technical guidance, training, and mentoring to Quality Inspectors and support employee development.
  • Serve as the primary resource for complex inspection questions, drawing interpretation, GD&T application, and measurement methodology.
  • Interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, models, specifications, manufacturing plans, and work instructions in accordance with ASME Y14.5 GD&T requirements.
  • Verify compliance with customer, regulatory, and internal quality requirements, including AS9100, ISO standards, and customer-specific specifications.
  • Utilize and verify the proper use and calibration status of inspection equipment including micrometers, calipers, bore gauges, height gauges, optical comparators, CMMs, and other precision instruments.
  • Review and approve inspection documentation, traceability records, FAIR packages, and quality documentation for accuracy and completeness.
  • Lead or support First Article Inspection (FAI) activities and AS9102 documentation.
  • Identify, document, and communicate nonconforming material while coordinating containment activities and disposition with Engineering, Manufacturing, and Quality leadership.
  • Assist in root cause investigations, corrective actions, preventive actions, and continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Support internal, customer, and regulatory audits by preparing documentation and serving as a technical resource during audit activities.
  • Monitor inspection processes and recommend improvements that increase quality, efficiency, and consistency.
  • Ensure inspection staging areas, documentation, and product traceability are maintained throughout the inspection process.
  • Communicate inspection results, production status, and quality concerns effectively with cross-functional teams.
  • Promote compliance with company safety policies and maintain a clean and organized work environment.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications (Education, skills and experience):

  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • 5+ years of quality inspection experience within aerospace, precision machining, or manufacturing environments.
  • Demonstrated experience providing technical leadership, mentoring, or coordinating inspection activities.
  • Advanced ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, specifications, and technical documentation.
  • Strong working knowledge of AS9100 and/or ISO 9001 quality management systems.
  • Advanced understanding of ASME Y14.5 Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
  • Proficiency using precision inspection equipment including micrometers, calipers, bore gauges, height gauges, optical comparators, and related instruments.
  • Experience completing First Article Inspection Reports (FAIRs) and AS9102 documentation.
  • Strong understanding of inspection methods, measurement techniques, shop mathematics, and blueprint interpretation.
  • Ability to review and maintain accurate quality documentation and inspection records.
  • Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to collaborate across departments.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office and ERP/MRP systems.

Preferred Qualifications (Education, skills and experience):

  • Experience programming or operating Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMMs) using software such as Calypso, Mitutoyo MCOSMOS, Verisurf, PC-DMIS, or similar.
  • ASQ Certified Quality Inspector (CQI), Certified Quality Technician (CQT), or other relevant quality certification.
  • Associate's degree or higher in Quality, Manufacturing, Engineering, or a related technical field.
  • Experience leading corrective action investigations using root cause analysis methodologies.
  • Working knowledge of Statistical Process Control (SPC), Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement tools.
  • Experience supporting customer, internal, or regulatory audits.
  • Experience reviewing inspection plans, manufacturing documentation, and quality procedures.
  • Ability to coordinate inspection activities across multiple product lines while maintaining production priorities.

Compensation and Benefits:

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
  • Choice of medical plan options, including a no-cost employee-only coverage plan
  • HSA-eligible health plan with employer contributions
  • Basic and supplemental life insurance
  • Long-term disability coverage
  • 401(k) plan with up to a 6% QACA company match
  • Paid time off including vacation, sick time, and nine (9) paid company holidays
  • Shift differentials for applicable off-shifts
  • Discretionary bonus programs based on position and company performance


The Lead Quality Inspector Compensation range for onsite California applicants is $35- $40 per hour commensurate with experience. Some shifts may include shift differential pay rates. Other site ranges may differ.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

This position must meet Export Control compliance requirements, therefore a “US Person” as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120.15 is required.

RTCA is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity), national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Applicants wishing to receive information on RTCA’s Affirmative Action Plans, or those requiring a reasonable accommodation to participate in the application or interview process, should contact the RTCA Human Resources Department. Qualified individuals with disabilities or disabled veterans who are unable or limited in their ability to access or use our career center due to a disability may request a reasonable accommodation by contacting Human Resources.

Candidates will receive consideration without discrimination in accordance with Article 9, Chapter XVIII of the City of Los Angeles Municipal Code and applicable federal, state, and local laws.