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Quality Associate Jobs in Needham, MA (NOW HIRING)

The QA Associate II/III independently conducts quality assurance audits of production records (manufacturing, analytical and quality control records) and facility records assuring company standards ...

Assoc Quality Inspector Description Who We Are We are Textron Systems, best known for innovative defense technologies and services. We are a part of Textron Inc, one of the world's leading multi ...

The Quality Assurance Specialist will work directly with validation project coordinators, technical area representatives and laboratory management Primary responsibilities are reviewing laboratory ...

Senior Associate Quality Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$96K - $130K/yr

Senior Associate Quality Engineer Type of Job: New Contracting Role Req # to submit to: 2026-149422 Client: Financial firm Openings: 1 Expected Start Date: ASAP End Date: 6 months from start date ...

Senior Associate Quality Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$96K - $130K/yr

Senior Associate Quality Engineer Type of Job: New Contracting Role Req # to submit to: 2026-149422 Client: Financial firm Openings: 1 Expected Start Date: ASAP End Date: 6 months from start date ...

Showing results 41-60

Quality Associate information

See Needham, MA salary details

$12

$29

$55

How much do quality associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for quality associate in Needham, MA is $29.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.90 and $34.33 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 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 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 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 most commonly searched types of Quality jobs in Needham, MA?

The most popular types of Quality jobs in Needham, MA are:

What cities near Needham, MA are hiring for Quality Associate jobs?

Cities near Needham, MA with the most Quality Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Quality Associate job openings in Needham, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,024 per year, or $29.3 per hour.

Assoc Quality Inspector

Cessna Aircraft Company

Wilmington, MA • On-site

$50.90 - $74.90/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Perform visual and manual inspections for hardware of various programs.

  • Assist with the flow of material through receiving inspection, including handling non-conforming material, acquiring supplier certifications, and verifying/creating labels.

  • Assist current inspectors and quality engineers with tasks to improve the flow of material and support day-to-day operations.


Job description

Job Description - Assoc Quality Inspector (340123)
Assoc Quality Inspector (340123)
Who We Are

We are Textron Systems, best known for innovative defense technologies and services. We are a part of Textron Inc, one of the world’s leading multi-industry companies, recognized for its powerful brands such as Bell, Cessna, Beechcraft, E-Z-GO, Arctic Cat and many more. Our company leverages its global network of aircraft, defense, industrial and finance businesses to provide customers with innovative products and services.


But our business is all about people – the customers who rely on us and the exceptional team that brings our mission to life.


We’ve been in the industry for more than 50 years and embraced the unique capabilities that come with being a mid‑sized player. We bring the agility of a small business to meet our customers’ most urgent requirements and empower our team members to push past possible. We can scale quickly to solve the big problems, working across functions, sites, and business lines to make it happen. We’re comprised of 7 domains specializing in Air, Sea, Land, Weapons Systems, Electronic Systems, Propulsion, and Testing and Training Simulations.


Start your career in a big way by joining Textron Systems. We are here to provide necessary and life‑changing services and products to our customers. We are right where the real work happens. By joining our team, you will gain exciting and versatile experiences from day one to fuel your growth. Talent development is a big part of who we are. Don’t just start your career – go big.


Visit TextronSystems.com to read more about who we are and the products we make!


Job Summary

About This Role


We believe people should love what they do – in this role, you will be responsible for:



  • Perform visual and manual inspections for hardware of various programs.

  • Assist with the flow of material through receiving inspection. Includes assisting with non‑conforming material, acquiring certifications from suppliers, verification/creation of labels.

  • Act as a liaison between functions within the organization.

  • Assist current inspectors and quality engineers with tasks to improve the flow of material.

  • Assist in tasks to support day to day operations and overall success of the team


Qualifications

  • High school diploma or GED required.

  • Working knowledge of Microsoft Office

  • Basic Mechanical Aptitude: Comfortable with basic formulas, calculating tolerances, and understanding geometric concepts used in dimensional inspection.

  • GD&T experience: Familiarity with reading engineering drawings that use Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing symbols and requirements. Entry level understanding is sufficient.

  • Read/Write Ability to Understand Work Instructions: Demonstrates the ability to prioritize work, follow documented processes accurately, collaborate effectively, identify issues proactively, and maintain accuracy in repetitive tasks.

  • This position requires an individual to be a U.S citizen with the ability to obtain security clearance.

  • Preferred Qualifications

    • Former machining experience: Hands on familiarity with machining processes, machine shop environments, or interpreting machined part features, making it easier to identify workmanship issues.

    • IPC-610,620, J-STD Certifications: Knowledge of industry standard requirements for soldering, cable harness assembly, and electronic assembly quality, enabling quicker onboarding for electronic hardware inspections.

    • Previous CMM program experience: Exposure to coordinate measuring machines or understanding of automated dimensional inspection workflows. Helpful but not required for entry level.




How We Care

At Textron Systems, our talented people make us successful. We promote an inclusive environment where we value individuality, differences and unique perspectives.


Our company is committed to offering employees opportunities to grow and develop. Our benefits and compensation packages are designed to help our talented employees excel and achieve their goals, so they can make a difference every day in and outside of the workplace. Below are just a few examples!



  • Flexible Work Schedules: Enjoy compressed work week schedule that varies by allowing for additional days off such as 9/80 and 4/10s, leading to additional Fridays off work!

  • Paid Time Off: Enjoy over 6 weeks of total paid time off (PTO) that consist of 120 hours of vacation, 56 hours of illness/personal time and 80 hours of holiday.

  • Tuition Reimbursement: We believe in investing in the progress and growth of our employee’s. Receive up to $10,000 for relevant graduate degrees per calendar year.

  • Dress for Your Day: No day is the same, so we don’t think you should dress like it. Dress smart for an important meeting, wear jeans for a casual day at the office or on the shop floor.

  • Comprehensive Benefits Package: Choose plans that fit your lifestyle- 3 medical plans, prescription drug coverage, dental, vision, additional life insurance coverage. Company paid benefits include basic life insurance, short- and long‑term disability and employee assistance program. Comprehensive wellness incentive plan and annual fitness reimbursement program.

  • Future Savings: Receive a company contribution to your 401k up to 9% of your salary! The earlier you start your career with us, the more you save.

  • Employee Discounts: We provide a one‑stop‑shop for access to exclusive offers and deep discounts from over 30,000 merchants and millions of products such as Bose, Apple, FitBit, HP, At&T, Verizon, T‑Mobile, travel discounts and more!

  • Many More Benefits: Textron Systems offers additional benefits such as service awards, cell phone retail discounts, travel and gym membership discounts, emergency travel assistance, home and auto discounts, adoption assistance and more!


Are you a Military Veteran?

Textron's products and services are trusted everyday by those who protect our country. We are dedicated to hiring these Veterans and aim to translate their skills to make an impact on our Company.


Textron’s compensation package includes competitive base pay and provides eligible employees with benefit programs. Benefits may include health insurance and prescription plan coverage, dental insurance, family building benefits, vision insurance, mental health resources, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and programs that provide employees time away from work. The pay range should be used as a general guide only. Compensation is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations. In compliance with the local pay transparency law, the pay range for this position is $50,900 - $74,900 per hour.


EEO Statement

Textron is committed to providing Equal Opportunity in Employment, to all applicants and employees regardless of race, color, religion, age, national origin, military status, veteran status, disability, sex (including pregnancy and sexual orientation), genetic information or any other characteristic protected by law.


Applicants selected will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements, including US Citizenship, for access to classified information.


Preference given to Veterans of the U. S. Armed Forces.

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