1

Quality Associate Jobs in Gaffney, SC (NOW HIRING)

Be Seen First

High school diploma or GED; technical certificate, associate degree, or coursework in quality, manufacturing, or laboratory technology preferred. * 1-3 years in manufacturing, laboratory, or quality ...

High school diploma or GED; technical certificate, associate degree, or coursework in quality, manufacturing, or laboratory technology preferred. * 1-3 years in manufacturing, laboratory, or quality ...

High school diploma or GED; technical certificate, associate degree, or coursework in quality, manufacturing, or laboratory technology preferred. * 1-3 years in manufacturing, laboratory, or quality ...

High school diploma or GED; technical certificate, associate degree, or coursework in quality, manufacturing, or laboratory technology preferred. * 1-3 years in manufacturing, laboratory, or quality ...

High school diploma or GED; technical certificate, associate degree, or coursework in quality, manufacturing, or laboratory technology preferred. * 1-3 years in manufacturing, laboratory, or quality ...

High school diploma or GED; technical certificate, associate degree, or coursework in quality, manufacturing, or laboratory technology preferred. * 1-3 years in manufacturing, laboratory, or quality ...

High school diploma or GED; technical certificate, associate degree, or coursework in quality, manufacturing, or laboratory technology preferred. * 1-3 years in manufacturing, laboratory, or quality ...

High school diploma or GED; technical certificate, associate degree, or coursework in quality, manufacturing, or laboratory technology preferred. * 1-3 years in manufacturing, laboratory, or quality ...

High school diploma or GED; technical certificate, associate degree, or coursework in quality, manufacturing, or laboratory technology preferred. * 1-3 years in manufacturing, laboratory, or quality ...

Quality Engineer-York

York, SC

$66K - $86K/yr

Job Summary Quality Systems Engineer is a motivated individual with a passion for standards and compliance. They will oversee processes, systems, and production to ensure smooth workflow and industry ...

Quality Engineer-York

York, SC

$66K - $86K/yr

Job Summary Quality Systems Engineer is a motivated individual with a passion for standards and compliance. They will oversee processes, systems, and production to ensure smooth workflow and industry ...

Paint Quality Lab Technician

Gastonia, NC · On-site

$16.50 - $21/hr

High school diploma required; technical training or associate degree in Quality, Chemistry, Coatings, or related field preferred. * 1-3 years of experience in paint inspection, laboratory testing, or ...

Quality Engineer-York

York, SC · On-site

$66K - $86K/yr

Job Summary Quality Systems Engineer is a motivated individual with a passion for standards and compliance. They will oversee processes, systems, and production to ensure smooth workflow and industry ...

Graduate of an accredited diploma, associate or baccalaureate school of nursing, BSN preferred * Experience: Minimum 2 years of health care management and 1-2 years experience in hospice. Quality ...

Forklift Driver - Spartanburg

Spartanburg, SC · On-site

$13.50 - $16/hr

As part of the DSV team, Associates are expected to meet company objectives in the areas of performance, safety, and quality. Associates are expected to comply with all corporate and site-specific ...

Showing results 21-40

Quality Associate information

See Gaffney, SC salary details

$10

$24

$46

How much do quality associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for quality associate in Gaffney, SC is $24.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.92 and $29.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a quality associate?

Quality Associates are professionals responsible for ensuring that products or services meet established quality standards before reaching customers. They assist in monitoring production processes, performing inspections, and documenting quality issues or defects. Quality Associates also help implement quality control procedures and work closely with other departments to resolve any quality-related problems. Their role is essential in maintaining compliance with regulatory requirements and ensuring customer satisfaction.

What is the difference between Quality Associate vs Quality Technician?

AspectQuality AssociateQuality Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer certifications like ASQ CQPAHigh school diploma; certifications like CQTA are common but not always required
Work EnvironmentOffice settings, manufacturing floors, labsManufacturing plants, labs, production lines
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, healthcare, aerospace, automotiveManufacturing, electronics, pharmaceuticals
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level quality rolesSimilar roles but more technical focus

While both roles focus on quality assurance, a Quality Associate typically handles documentation, audits, and process improvements, often in office or administrative settings. A Quality Technician usually performs hands-on inspections, testing, and data collection directly on the production floor. Both roles are essential in maintaining product quality but differ in their daily tasks and work environments.

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

To thrive as a Quality Associate, you need attention to detail, knowledge of quality control principles, and often a degree in science, engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with quality management systems (such as ISO 9001), statistical analysis tools, and documentation software is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, communication skills, and problem-solving abilities help you collaborate across teams and address process issues effectively. These skills and qualities ensure that products and processes consistently meet standards, minimizing errors and maintaining compliance.

What are some common challenges quality associates face when working on cross-functional teams?

Quality Associates often collaborate with departments like manufacturing, engineering, and regulatory affairs to ensure product quality standards are met. One common challenge is balancing differing priorities—while production teams may be focused on output and speed, Quality Associates must prioritize compliance and thorough documentation. Navigating these competing interests requires strong communication skills and a proactive approach to problem-solving. Building positive relationships across teams and fostering a culture of quality can help overcome these challenges and ensure successful outcomes.

What does a quality associate do?

A quality associate works as part of a team, typically in the manufacturing industry, to inspect and audit a factory to ensure that production follows the necessary protocols and delivers the expected results. In this role, your responsibilities involve all aspects of quality control. You test procedures and make adjustments as required to meet goals and deadlines. As part of your duties, you log your findings and implement a plan for the smooth operation of the line for the long-term. Some people in this career specialize in a particular facet of the manufacturing process.

What job categories do people searching Quality Associate jobs in Gaffney, SC look for? The top searched job categories for Quality Associate jobs in Gaffney, SC are:
What cities near Gaffney, SC are hiring for Quality Associate jobs? Cities near Gaffney, SC with the most Quality Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Quality Associate job openings in Gaffney, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,847 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

Quality Assurance Technician - Weekend Night

UTZ Brands, Inc

Kings Mountain, NC

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Are you passionate about ensuring food safety and quality? Do you have an eye for detail and a desire to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment? If so, Utz Quality Foods wants you to join our team as aQuality Assurance Technicianat our Kings Mountain, NC manufacturing facility!

As a Quality Assurance Technician, you'll be an essential part of maintaining the high standards of product quality and food safety we're known for. You'll conduct routine in-process and finished product quality control tests, document everything, and work closely with the team to keep everything running

smoothly.

Rotating schedule: Friday to Sunday & Thursday to Sunday 6:00 PM to 6:30 AM

Responsibilities:

  • Stay active and engaged throughout the day, collecting samples, testing, and collaborating with the team to ensure everything is up to standards.

  • Maintain accurate records of all testing, audits, and tasks performed.

  • Communicate test results and corrective actions with the appropriate team members to ensure consistency.

  • Work professionally and respectfully with peers, sharing insights and solutions.

  • Perform product quality tests and ensure food safety by following standard work, lab checklists, and other communication methods.

  • Verify sanitation effectiveness by conducting pre-op inspections, including visual equipment checks and ATP testing.

  • Stick to a regular product testing schedule, adjusting as needed for quality concerns.

  • Keep the lab, equipment, and supplies clean, organized, and fully stocked.

  • Identify non-conformance issues, placing product on hold, investigating the root cause, and implementing corrective actions.

  • Assist with lab equipment calibration, auditing records, performing calibrations, and updating the necessary documentation.

  • Generate shift reports, detailing issues, opportunities, and events that happened during the shift.

  • Perform daily and monthly audits to ensure facility compliance with GMP and sanitation standards.

  • Provide technical support to Packers and other associates, especially during busy periods.

  • Make a direct impact on food safety at Utz by ensuring quality control is always top-notch.

  • Work with management and associates to ensure food safety standards are followed.

  • Report any food safety, office, or operational issues to a supervisor or manager for resolution.

  • Assist with other duties as needed to help achieve company and department goals.

Requirements:

  • Strong basic math skills and safety-conscious attitude when working with chemical solutions and test samples.

  • Mechanical aptitude is helpful, but not required.

  • Great organizational and communication skills; the ability to work with all levels of associates.

  • Basic computer skills for entering and summarizing quality control data.

  • Willingness to wear non-slip shoes and appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

External Recruitment Process:

  • Easy Application (5 mins): Introduce yourself and answer a few key questions to get started.
  • Engaging Chat Interview (20-25 mins): Share your experiences in an online chat, highlighting how your values align with ours.
  • Live Interview: Selected candidates will meet with the hiring manager to explore their alignment with the team and overall Utz company culture.

Continuously Pursuing Excellence!

Here at Utz, we have a passion for exciting and delighting consumers with delicious snack foods made from high quality ingredients. After over a century with a strong family heritage, our diverse portfolio of brands includes Utz, Zapp's, Boulder Canyon, and On the Border. Our associates are the reason for the success of this company, so it is important we provide a supportive, caring and inclusive environment that offers opportunities for career growth and advancement. We also help take care of our associates by providing benefits, resources, and programs that ensure they live their healthiest lives. Our full-time benefit package includes medical, dental, and vision plans, an employer match 401k, profit sharing plan, employee stock purchase plan and much more. Join our world class team and help us become the fastest growing pure-play U.S. snacking company of scale!

Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.

  • Demonstrated ability to operate production and data entry equipment.
  • Must follow all personal and food safety rules, policies, and procedures.
  • Must be able to stand most of the time.
  • Must be able to lift, push, and pull up to 70lb's.
  • Must be willing and able to work in / around consistently hot equipment and environments.
  • Must have the ability to multi-task.
  • Must be team oriented.
  • Ability to communicate both orally and in writing.
  • Must possess basic math skills.
  • Proficiency with basic hand tools.
  • Knowledge of safe operating practices involved in the use of lock-out/tag-out programs and food safety.
  • Experience with general mechanic tools (Allen wrenches, screw drivers, etc.).
  • Strong commitment to company values.