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Quality Control Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Heidelberg Materials

Quality Control Associate

Thornton, IL · On-site

$22.54 - $27.80/hr

Support quality control activities by monitoring processes and identifying opportunities for improvement * Maintain testing equipment, tools, and work areas in a safe and organized condition * Follow ...

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How much do quality control associate jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for quality control associate in Chicago, IL is $26.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.09 and $31.97 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Quality Control Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Quality Control Associate, you need a solid understanding of quality assurance principles, attention to detail, and often a background in science or manufacturing. Familiarity with inspection tools, laboratory equipment, and quality management systems (such as ISO standards) is typically required, and certifications like Six Sigma or ASQ may be advantageous. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills set exceptional candidates apart. These skills ensure that products consistently meet standards, reduce errors, and support overall operational excellence.

What are some common challenges Quality Control Associates face when ensuring product consistency across different production batches?

Quality Control Associates often encounter challenges such as variations in raw material quality, changes in manufacturing processes, and tight production schedules that can lead to inconsistencies between batches. Addressing these issues requires keen attention to detail, effective communication with production teams, and a strong understanding of standard operating procedures. Staying proactive in identifying potential sources of variation and collaborating closely with other departments helps maintain high product standards and minimizes the risk of defects.

What does a Quality Control Associate do?

A Quality Control Associate is responsible for ensuring that products meet established standards of quality, including reliability, usability, and performance. They conduct inspections, perform tests, and document their findings to identify defects or deviations from specifications. Quality Control Associates often work closely with production teams to address issues and help maintain compliance with industry regulations. Their role is critical in maintaining customer satisfaction and upholding the reputation of their company. They may work in a variety of industries, including pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, and food production.

Which is higher position, QA or QC?

In the context of a Quality Control Associate role, Quality Assurance (QA) is generally considered a higher-level function that focuses on preventing defects through process improvements, while Quality Control (QC) involves inspecting products to identify defects. QA roles often involve more strategic responsibilities and may require broader skills or certifications, whereas QC is more about testing and inspection tasks. The hierarchy can vary by organization, but QA typically holds a higher or more senior position than QC.

What is the difference between Quality Control Associate vs Quality Assurance Technician?

AspectQuality Control AssociateQuality Assurance Technician
CertificationsOften requires GMP, ISO, or industry-specific quality certificationsSimilar certifications, with focus on quality standards and compliance
Work EnvironmentLaboratory, manufacturing, or production settingsLaboratory, manufacturing, or quality compliance environments
Primary FocusInspecting products, testing samples, identifying defectsDeveloping and implementing quality systems, audits, and process improvements
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, pharmaceuticals, food productionManufacturing, pharmaceuticals, food industry

While both roles focus on quality, the Quality Control Associate primarily inspects and tests products to identify defects, whereas the Quality Assurance Technician develops and maintains quality systems to prevent issues. Both roles are essential in ensuring product quality and compliance within manufacturing and production environments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Quality Control jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Quality Control jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Quality Control Associate jobs in Chicago, IL? For Quality Control Associate jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Quality Control Associate jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Quality Control Associate jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Quality Control Associate jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Quality Control Associate job openings:
Quality Control Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Quality Control Associate job openings in Chicago, IL as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,602 per year, or $26.3 per hour.

Quality Control Associate

50065 Heidelberg Materials Midwest Agg, Inc.

Peotone, IL

$22.54 - $27.80/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Line of Business: Aggregates

About Us
Heidelberg Materials is one of the world's largest suppliers of building materials. Heidelberg Materials North America operates over 450 locations across the U.S. and Canada with approximately 9,000 employees.

What You'll Be Doing

  • Perform routine aggregate sampling and testing to ensure product quality and compliance with specifications
  • Accurately document test results and communicate findings to operations, sales, and quality teams
  • Support quality control activities by monitoring processes and identifying opportunities for improvement
  • Maintain testing equipment, tools, and work areas in a safe and organized condition
  • Follow safety, environmental, and quality standards while supporting day‑to‑day plant operations

What Are We Looking For

  • Proven ability to perform aggregate quality testing including gradations, moisture content, specific gravity, and other ASTM/AASHTO procedures with strong attention to detail and accurate documentation
  • Clear and confident communication skills to relay test results, quality concerns, and production adjustments to plant operators, supervisors, and team members
  • Reliable problem solving skills and sound judgment when identifying material inconsistencies, troubleshooting production issues, or recommending corrective actions in a fast paced quarry environment.
  • Comfort working both independently in the lab and collaboratively in the field, supporting production teams, equipment operators, and management.
  • Strong commitment to safety, product quality, and continuous improvement, ensuring compliance with company standards, customer specifications and regulatory requirements.

Work Environment
This role is based in an aggregate production environment and involves both indoor and outdoor work. The position may require working in varying weather conditions, around heavy equipment, and handling materials and testing equipment. Appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) is required.

What We Offer

  • Competitive base salary $22.54-$27.80
  • 401(k) retirement savings plan with an automatic company contribution as well as matching contributions
  • Highly competitive benefits programs, including:
    • Medical, Dental, and Vision along with Prescription Drug Benefits
    • Health Saving Savings Account (HSA), Health Reimbursement Account (HRA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
    • AD&D, Short‑ and Long‑Term Disability Coverage as well as Basic Life Insurance
    • Paid Bonding Leave, 15 days of Paid Vacation, 40 hours of Paid Sick Leave and 10 Paid Holidays

Equal Opportunity Employer - Minority / Female / Veteran / Disabled

As part of our hiring process, we may use AI-assisted tools to support the screening and evaluation of candidate applications and interviews. These tools help streamline the initial assessment, but all decisions about candidate advancement are made by human recruiters and hiring managers. While technology supports early steps, every interview will be handled by experienced recruiters and hiring managers to provide a personal touch.

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