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Quality Associate Jobs in Reading, PA (NOW HIRING)

The Sr. Associate, Quality Control Lab - Analytical Science & Technology (AS&T) (Science/Tech/Engineering Path), is primarily responsible for performing routine chemical and microbiological analyses ...

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QA Associate

Quakertown, PA · On-site

$900 - $1.4K/wk

We are seeking a QA Associate to become an integral part of our team! Responsibilities: * Maintains an industry standard level of quality throughout the organization * Creates production batch ...

Must have 2+ years experience working in a quality control position for apparel manufacturing, cut & sew knits experience preferred Ensure garments are being sewn to specifications and adhering to ...

Must have 2+ years experience working in a quality control position for apparel manufacturing, cut & sew knits experience preferred Ensure garments are being sewn to specifications and adhering to ...

Must have 2+ years experience working in a quality control position for apparel manufacturing, cut & sew knits experience preferred Ensure garments are being sewn to specifications and adhering to ...

Associate's degree or experience in inspection preferred. * Minimum Experience (preferred): * 1 year of work experience as a Quality Inspector or 2 years of related inspection experience in the ...

Associate's degree or experience in inspection preferred. * Minimum Experience (preferred): * 1 year of work experience as a Quality Inspector or 2 years of related inspection experience in the ...

Quality Engineer

Lebanon, PA · On-site

$70K - $91K/yr

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Metallurgy, Quality, Engineering, Manufacturing, or related field preferred * 5-7 years of quality engineering experience within a manufacturing environment

Quality Engineer

Akron, PA · On-site

$71K - $92K/yr

Associate's degree required; Bachelor's degree preferred in Engineering, Quality, Manufacturing, Industrial, or a related field. * Experience in automotive manufacturing is strongly preferred ...

Quality Engineer

Akron, PA · On-site

$71K - $92K/yr

Associate's degree required; Bachelor's degree preferred in Engineering, Quality, Manufacturing, Industrial, or a related field. * Experience in automotive manufacturing is strongly preferred ...

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Quality Associate information

See Reading, PA salary details

$10

$25

$48

How much do quality associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for quality associate in Reading, PA is $25.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $30.24 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 Reading, PA?

The most popular types of Quality jobs in Reading, PA are:

What cities near Reading, PA are hiring for Quality Associate jobs?

Cities near Reading, PA with the most Quality Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Quality Associate job openings in Reading, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,797 per year, or $25.9 per hour.

Sr. Associate, Quality (AS&T)

Alcon

Sinking Spring, PA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Alcon rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 70 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

229th of 545 rated manufacturers


Job description

At Alcon, we're passionate about enhancing sight and helping people see brilliantly. With more than 25,000 associates, we innovate fearlessly, champion progress, and act swiftly to impact global eye health. We foster an inclusive culture, recognizing your contributions and offering opportunities to grow your career like never before. Together, we make a difference in the lives of our patients and customers. Are you ready to join us?
This role is part of Alcon's Quality & Regulatory Affairs function, a team that ensures our products are in compliance with global, local, and internal regulations and meet the strictest standards of quality as we help people see brilliantly. The Sr. Associate, Quality Control Lab - Analytical Science & Technology (AS&T) (Science/Tech/Engineering Path), is primarily responsible for performing routine chemical and microbiological analyses to ensure continuous manufacturing and product readiness. You will lead in-house lab validation studies, assist in training, and support Quality Control auditors. Complex tasks are conducted using scientific principles to drive problem-solving and innovation.
In this role, a typical day will include:
  • Perform specialized microbiology tasks for product and process validation, product release, and regulatory compliance
  • Conduct qualitative and quantitative analyses
  • Maintain and qualify lab equipment and ensure the availability of supplies in compliance with current Good Laboratory Practices (cGxP) and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
  • Troubleshoot and resolve complex issues using advanced technical knowledge and analytical skills
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate lab results into the manufacturing process and drive innovation
  • Adhere to Good Laboratory Practices (GxP) regulations by following SOPs, maintaining accurate documentation, and ensuring rigorous quality control
  • Supports audits, if needed
  • Identifies quality issues, prevents potential nonconformances, and drives continuous process improvements

WHAT YOU'LL BRING TO ALCON:
  • Bachelor's Degree or Equivalent years of directly related experience (or high school +10 yrs; Assoc.+6yrs; M.S.+0 yrs) The ability to fluently read, write, understand and communicate in English
  • 2 Years of Relevant Experience
  • 1 Years of Demonstrated Leadership
  • Location: Onsite-Sinking Spring, PA
  • Schedule: Day Shift - Monday - Friday
  • Travel Requirements: N/A
  • Relocation & Sponsorship: Not Available

Preferred Qualifications/Skills/Experience:
  • Excellent communication skills, in both verbal and written form
  • High attention to details and comfortable speaking up
  • Self-starter with the ability to follow-up on and complete multiple projects simultaneously with little direction
  • Experience with SPC, MSA, Gauge R&R, and process capability studies
  • Strong knowledge of GxP, quality systems, and regulatory compliance requirements
  • Experience with SAP, Kneat, and Teamcenter is a plus

HOW YOU CAN THRIVE AT ALCON:
  • Collaborate with teammates to share standard processes and learnings as work evolves!
  • See your career like never before with focused growth and development opportunities
  • Join Alcon's mission to provide outstanding, innovative products and solutions to improve sight, improve lives, and grow your career!
  • Alcon provides robust benefits package including health, life, retirement, flexible time off for exempt associates, PTO for hourly associates, and much more!

Alcon Careers
See your impact at alcon.com.careers
ATTENTION: Current Alcon Employee/Contingent Worker
If you are currently an active employee/contingent worker at Alcon, please click the appropriate link below to apply on the Internal Career site.
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ALCON IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER AND PARTICIPATES IN E-VERIFY
Alcon takes pride in maintaining an inclusive environment that values different perspectives and our policies are non-discriminatory in recruitment, hiring, training, promotion or other employment practices for reasons of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status. Alcon is also committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process, or in order to perform the essential functions of a position, please send an email to alcon.recruitment@alcon.com and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information.

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