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Quality Associate Jobs in Salem, VA (NOW HIRING)

VPT, Inc., a global leader in providing power conversion solutions for use in avionics, military, space and industrial applications, is seeking a full-time Material Quality Associate for their office ...

VPT, Inc., a global leader in providing power conversion solutions for use in avionics, military, space and industrial applications, is seeking a full-time Material Quality Associate for their office ...

VPT, Inc., a global leader in providing power conversion solutions for use in avionics, military, space and industrial applications, is seeking a full-time Material Quality Associate for their office ...

Quality Engineer

Salem, VA · On-site

$75K/yr

Associate degree in an engineering discipline or the equivalent of at least 5 years of professional experience in an engineering role. * At least 1 year of professional experience in a quality ...

Quality Engineer

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Associate degree in an engineering discipline or the equivalent of at least 5 years of professional experience in an engineering role. * At least 1 year of professional experience in a quality ...

Quality Engineer

Salem, VA · On-site

$69K - $90K/yr

Associate degree in an engineering discipline or the equivalent of at least 5 years of professional experience in an engineering role. * At least 1 year of professional experience in a quality ...

Quality Engineer

Salem, VA

$69K - $90K/yr

Associate degree in an engineering discipline or the equivalent of at least 5 years of professional experience in an engineering role. * At least 1 year of professional experience in a quality ...

Quality Technician II

Blacksburg, VA · On-site

$43K - $50K/yr

Associate degree in a technical field preferred. * High school diploma or GED required. Experience * Previous Quality Assurance experience in a manufacturing environment strongly preferred.

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Quality Associate information

See Salem, VA salary details

$10

$26

$49

How much do quality associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for quality associate in Salem, VA is $26.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.69 and $30.48 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 Salem, VA?

The most popular types of Quality jobs in Salem, VA are:

What cities near Salem, VA are hiring for Quality Associate jobs?

Cities near Salem, VA with the most Quality Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Quality Associate job openings in Salem, VA 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 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,244 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Material Quality Associate

HEICO

Blacksburg, VA • On-site

$16 - $22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

VPT, Inc., a global leader in providing power conversion solutions for use in avionics, military, space and industrial applications, is seeking a full-time Material Quality Associate for their office in Blacksburg, VA.
This position in in the Quality Department will report to the Material Quality Supervisor. The ideal candidate will be highly organized and possess excellent communication skills.
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
  • Perform inspection (visual, mechanical, electrical) of product assemblies and raw components
  • Compile component/material kids and documentation for manufacturing builds
  • Distribute documentation and materials to manufacturing and engineering personnel
  • Data entry for quality, component, and production-related items
  • Compiling, scanning, and organizing quality, component and production-related data

The anticipated starting salary range for this position is $16.00 - $22.00 per hour.
Salary Range Disclaimer: The base salary range represents the low and high end of the VPT, Inc., starting salary range for this position. Actual starting salary will vary depending on location, education, and experience. The range listed is just one factor of the VPT, Inc., total compensation package. Other factors include paid holidays, paid time off, health and dental insurance, 401(k) with match, disability insurance, life insurance and flexible spending accounts.
VPT, Inc., is an Equal Opportunity/VET/Disability Employer.
Core Competencies:
  • Strong attention to detail
  • Ability to communicate proficiently
  • Well organized
  • Ability to multi-task

Preferred Experience:
  • Inventory, stock or warehouse control experience
  • Ability to read blueprints
  • Experience using hand tools (e.g., calipers, micrometers, etc.)

Because of the nature of this position, a US Person is required.