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Quality Associate Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

The QC Associate II will be responsible for the implementation and continuous improvement of QC methods in the production laboratory. He/she will work closely with the operations team to monitor the ...

The QC Associate II will be responsible for the implementation and continuous improvement of QC methods in the production laboratory. He/she will work closely with the operations team to monitor the ...

Qualifications: * 3+ years of experience in a quality role (e.g., Quality Technician, Quality Engineer, Auditor, or similar) with an Associate's or Bachelor's degree - or an equivalent combination of ...

Qualifications: * 3+ years of experience in a quality role (e.g., Quality Technician, Quality Engineer, Auditor, or similar) with an Associate's or Bachelor's degree - or an equivalent combination of ...

Qualifications: * 3+ years of experience in a quality role (e.g., Quality Technician, Quality Engineer, Auditor, or similar) with an Associate's or Bachelor's degree - or an equivalent combination of ...

Qualifications: * 3+ years of experience in a quality role (e.g., Quality Technician, Quality Engineer, Auditor, or similar) with an Associate's or Bachelor's degree - or an equivalent combination of ...

Pay Rate Low: 20 | Pay Rate High: 22 Quality Inspector Location: Fully Onsite - Clackamas, OR ... Associate's degree in related field + 4 years of relevant experience INDBH #LI-DNI

Quality Technician

Wilsonville, OR · On-site

$47K - $69K/yr

The Quality Technician provides quality support for assigned product lines and manufacturing ... Associate degree in a technical or engineering-related discipline. * Experience reading engineering ...

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Quality Associate information

See Portland, OR salary details

$11

$27

$52

How much do quality associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for quality associate in Portland, OR is $27.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.89 and $32.55 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 are the most commonly searched types of Quality jobs in Portland, OR? The most popular types of Quality jobs in Portland, OR are:
What are popular job titles related to Quality Associate jobs in Portland, OR? For Quality Associate jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Quality Associate jobs? Cities near Portland, OR with the most Quality Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Quality Associate job openings in Portland, OR as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,941 per year, or $27.9 per hour.

Quality Associate

Stack Metallurgical Services, Inc.

Portland, OR • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Summary    

The Quality Associate reviews heat treat work for compliance to specification requirements. They interface with customers to communicate issues, status updates, and works to resolve those issues. They own the quality withhold area where they coordinate rework with internal and external stakeholders. They work on improvement projects to support their coworkers.


Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following.  Other duties may be assigned.

  • Perform final quality review of customer orders to ensure compliance with specifications, documentation completeness, and accuracy prior to shipment.
  • Compile and prepare special process certification packets, including all required customer documentation, certifications, and test reports.
  • Communicate quality-related issues, testing delays, or documentation requirements with customers in a clear and timely manner.
  • Prepare purchase orders for external testing services; coordinate logistics and scheduling with outside labs; ensure timely delivery of test results.
  • Provide outside testing schedules and updates to customer service and production teams to support accurate planning and delivery timelines.
  • Collaborate with production personnel to identify, investigate, and resolve internal quality concerns; support process improvement initiatives and maintain alignment with quality standards.
  • Own the nonconformance and rework process; ensure resolution and documentation.
  • Participates in continuous improvement efforts.
  • Assists with write up of commercial orders.
  • Supports corrective action program to address deficiencies.
  • Maintains punctual, regular, and predictable attendance.


EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

One-year certificate from college or technical school; or three to six months related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.


Stack Metallurgical Services, LLC offers a full range of benefits which include:

  • Medical/Dental/Vision
  • Flexible Spending Account 
  • Health Savings Account
  • Short term and long-term disability
  • Basic Life and AD&D Insurance
  • 401(k) with match
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Time Off 
  • Tri-Met Bus Pass Subsidy