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Produce Quality Inspector Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

Eaton's ES AMER ARS division is currently seeking a Panelboard Quality Inspector. The hours for ... product produced on all lines by conducting electrical and mechanical tests using Hi-Pot ...

... and inspect incoming produce deliveries for quality and accuracy Assist with proper storage and back stock organization of perishable product Keep the produce area clean, organized, and properly ...

... and produce a high quality product. Qualifications • The employee must have the ability to perform inspection functions such as visual inspection to detect cosmetic defects and color ...

... and produce a high quality product. Qualifications • The employee must have the ability to perform inspection functions such as visual inspection to detect cosmetic defects and color ...

Receive and inspect incoming produce deliveries for quality and accuracy * Assist with proper storage and back stock organization of perishable product * Keep the produce area clean, organized, and ...

... and inspect incoming produce deliveries for quality and accuracy • Assist with proper storage and back stock organization of perishable product • Keep the produce area clean, organized, and ...

Quality Lab Tech I

Blythewood, SC · On-site

$15.75 - $20/hr

Performs in-process inspections. * Monitors product quality in conjunction with production team ... We are Constantia Flexibles - one of the world's leading producers of flexible packaging for the ...

Produce Clerk

Irmo, SC · On-site

$12.25 - $14.75/hr

Inform customers of produce specials * Recommend items to customers to ensure they get the products ... Review/inspect products for quality and freshness and take appropriate action with those items

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Produce Quality Inspector information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$11

$18

$29

How much do produce quality inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for produce quality inspector in Columbia, SC is $18.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $21.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a produce quality inspector do?

A Produce Quality Inspector is responsible for examining fruits, vegetables, and other produce to ensure they meet specific quality and safety standards. They look for signs of damage, spoilage, ripeness, and contamination, and may also check for correct labeling and packaging. Their work helps maintain food safety throughout the supply chain and ensures customers receive high-quality produce. Inspectors often work in warehouses, distribution centers, or at points of import and export.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a produce quality inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Produce Quality Inspector, you need expertise in food safety standards, quality control procedures, and experience with agricultural products, often supported by a background in food science or agriculture. Familiarity with inspection tools, data entry systems, and certifications like HACCP or USDA inspection credentials is frequently required. Attention to detail, strong observational skills, and effective communication are vital soft skills for accurately assessing product quality and collaborating with suppliers. These skills ensure that only safe, high-quality produce reaches consumers, protecting public health and reducing supply chain losses.

What are some common challenges faced by produce quality inspectors, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Produce Quality Inspectors often face challenges such as managing varying quality standards among suppliers, working in fast-paced environments, and identifying subtle defects in produce. To address these issues, inspectors rely on clear communication with suppliers and team members, continuous training on updated quality standards, and the use of standardized checklists and tools. Staying organized and maintaining meticulous records also help ensure consistency and accuracy in inspections, which is crucial for food safety and customer satisfaction.

What is the difference between Produce Quality Inspector vs Food Safety Inspector?

AspectProduce Quality InspectorFood Safety Inspector
CertificationsQuality assurance certifications, HACCP knowledgeFood safety certifications, HACCP, ServSafe
Work EnvironmentFarms, processing plants, warehousesRegulatory agencies, inspection sites, food facilities
Industry UsageProduce, agriculture, food processingFood manufacturing, regulatory compliance

The Produce Quality Inspector focuses on assessing the quality and freshness of produce, ensuring it meets standards before distribution. In contrast, the Food Safety Inspector evaluates overall food safety compliance across various food facilities. While both roles require knowledge of HACCP and food safety protocols, their work environments and specific responsibilities differ, with Produce Quality Inspectors concentrating on produce quality and Food Safety Inspectors on regulatory compliance across the food industry.

What qualifications do I need to be a produce quality inspector?

Produce quality inspectors typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and should have good attention to detail, sensory evaluation skills, and knowledge of food safety standards. Some employers prefer candidates with experience in food production or quality control, and certifications such as HACCP can be beneficial. Physical stamina and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment are also important.

What are popular job titles related to Produce Quality Inspector jobs in Columbia, SC?

For Produce Quality Inspector jobs in Columbia, SC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Produce Quality Inspector jobs in Columbia, SC look for?

The top searched job categories for Produce Quality Inspector jobs in Columbia, SC are:

What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Produce Quality Inspector jobs?

Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Produce Quality Inspector job openings:

Infographic showing various Produce Quality Inspector job openings in Columbia, SC as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 61% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,242 per year, or $18.9 per hour.

Panelboard Quality Inspector

Eaton

Sumter, SC • On-site

$20/hr

Full-time, Other

Medical, Retirement

Posted 11 days ago


Eaton rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 226 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

174th of 544 rated manufacturers


Job description

Eaton's ES AMER ARS division is currently seeking a Panelboard Quality Inspector. The hours for this position are 5:00am to 1:30pm
The hourly rate for this position is $20.00/hr per hour.
This position is also eligible for a variable incentive program.
Please note the salary information shown above is a general guideline only. Salaries are based upon candidate skills, experience, and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
What you'll do:
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITY:
Eaton is currently seeking a Panelboard Inspector on 2nd shift to join our team. This position is based out of our Sumter, SC facility.
The Panelboard Inspector will visually and mechanically inspect panelboards to verify that products are engineered and assembled to meet customer's needs by referencing drawings, design literature, electrical / utility codes, and Sumter specific quality management documents (procedures, work instructions, standard work, etc.) with the overall goal of timely order fulfillment and adherence to Eaton's quality standards.
Making what matters work at Eaton takes the passion of every employee around the world. We create an environment where creativity, invention and discovery become reality, each and every day. It's where bold, bright professionals like you can reach your full potential-and where you can help us reach ours.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
• Exhibit a strong adherence to quality by continually seeking methods of improvement for all functions of the position. Ensure that all products and parts adequately meet Eaton's quality guidelines as they move throughout the production process. Receive information from team members regarding customer needs and product requirements and utilize this information to perform one's function. Perform quality checks as instructed.
• Receive and carry out work assignments from management and internal customers so as to fulfill customer orders in a timely manner. Closely follow established procedures for completing assigned function and perform special assignments and/or projects as assigned.
• Contribute to a safe, engaged and inclusive work culture by complying with all safety requirements, including proper use of personal protective equipment and operation of equipment, and performing 5S duties.
• Monitor workflow and inspect PNBD product produced on all lines by conducting electrical and mechanical tests using Hi-Pot, continuity test, and component-specific testing devices in accordance to inspection work instructions and applicable governmental requirements. Confirm proper function of panelboards and electrical components and identify and properly document any product non-conformances.
• Verify any revisions released to the production floor regarding functionality and customer specifications are incorporated into the product, all documentation reflects the current revision, and previous revisions of documents are not used /discarded. Ensure that component literature and necessary product documentation are included with the job.
• Serve as informal trainer for production associates and providing assistance when needed, particularly for complex tasks and for product requirements that may not be precisely defined.
• Thoroughly document non-conformances to aid problem solving and continuous improvement efforts. Communicate production non-conformances to appropriate production personnel in a timely manner and verify required rework. Communicate design errors to appropriate front-end personnel for correction, obtain revisions, and verify required rework. Ensure that suspect product is identified at all times to prevent unintended use.
• Coordinate with other inspectors to transfer incomplete jobs from one shift to the other to ensure no inspections or tests are missed, and full accountability is maintained.
Additional Information:
• The panelboard product is a customized offering requiring that each job be thoroughly examined to understand the unique requirements.
• Job is fast-paced at times and requires multi-tasking.
• There is high accountability associated with job performance.
• The incumbent requires the ability to work in an environment of high pressure and high expectations.
Qualifications:
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
• High school diploma or GED equivalent from an accredited institution.
• Minimum of 1 year of Manufacturing Experience.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without company sponsorship.
• No relocation benefit is offered for this position. Only candidates residing within the immediate area of the Sumter facility (50 mile radius) will be considered for this position.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
• Computer literate.
• Working knowledge of Lean concepts.
• Associates degree in Mechatronics, Electrical Engineering or Electronics.
Skills:
POSITION CRITERIA:
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, persuasive skills, and analytical problem solving skills. Work with individuals and groups to effectively participate within team environment.
• Knowledge of basic electricity, current flow, and component functionality schematics/wiring diagrams and assembly processes on all lines. (Hi-Pot, Shunt Trip).
• Knowledge of all assembled PNBD product designs.
• Experience in applicable UL codes, NEC codes, regional utility codes, customer-specific requirements.
• Ability to read, comprehend, and interpret manufacturing documents, including front view, MIs, Blow-Thrus, Wiring Diagrams, component literature, engineering drawings, and testing procedures.
• Requires thorough knowledge of basic electricity, current flow and component functionality.
Additional Information:
Expected to work with some degree of independence and make decisions that affect the workgroup. Focus efforts on attaining assigned goals and objectives, which include meeting needs and expectations of internal and external customers.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
While performing the duties of this job the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, sit, reach at or above shoulder level, grip, and use hands to handle and feel. The employee is frequently required to stoop, lift, carry, push, pull, and grip. The employee is frequently required to lift/carry up to 35 pounds and to push/pull up to or greater than 35 pounds with or without accommodation. The vision requirements include far and close vision with depth perception and color discrimination. While performing the duties of this job the employee is regularly required to communicate.
WORK ENVIRONMENT:
While performing the duties of this job the employee is regularly exposed to noise and frequently exposed to dust.
We are committed to ensuring equal employment opportunities for all job applicants and employees. Employment decisions are based upon job-related reasons regardless of an applicant's race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, marital status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by law.
Eaton believes in second chance employment. Qualified applicants with arrest or conviction history will be considered regardless of their arrest or conviction history, consistent with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance, the California Fair Chance Act and other local laws.
You do not need to disclose your conviction history or participate in a background check until a conditional job offer is made to you. After making a conditional offer and running a background check, if Eaton is concerned about conviction that is directly related to the job, you will be given the chance to explain the circumstances surrounding the conviction, provide mitigating evidence, or challenge the accuracy of the background report.
To request a disability-related reasonable accommodation to assist you in your job search, application, or interview process, please call us at 1-800-836-6345 to discuss your specific need. Only accommodation requests will be accepted by this phone number.
We know that good benefit programs are important to employees and their families. Eaton provides various Health and Welfare benefits as well as Retirement benefits, and several programs that provide for paid and unpaid time away from work. Click here for more detail: Eaton Benefits Overview. Please note that specific programs and options available to an employee may depend on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.

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About Eaton

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Electrical equipment, appliance, and component manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Cleveland, OH, US