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Quality Inspector Jobs in Columbia, MD (NOW HIRING)

A Quality Inspector performs complete quality inspection operations on a variety of purchased or manufactured materials, hardware, electrical components, electro-mechanical assemblies/systems and ...

Quality Inspector - A

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$48K - $112K/yr

The Oceanic System Quality and Mission Assurance team is looking for a talented QUALITY INSPECTOR A to join our team in Annapolis, MD with experience in evaluating a variety of purchased and ...

Senior Quality Inspector

Germantown, MD · On-site

$57.07 - $74.19/hr

Senior Quality Inspector Location: Germantown, MD, US, 20876 Job ID: 114969 DRS RADA Technologies, a subsidiary of Leonardo DRS, is focused on proprietary radar solutions and legacy avionics systems ...

Job Summary DRS RADA Technologies is seeking a Senior Quality Inspector to join our team in Germantown, MD. DRS RADA Technologies, a subsidiary of Leonardo DRS, is focused on proprietary radar ...

Job Summary DRS RADA Technologies is seeking a Senior Quality Inspector to join our team in Germantown, MD. DRS RADA Technologies, a subsidiary of Leonardo DRS, is focused on proprietary radar ...

Job Summary DRS RADA Technologies is seeking a Senior Quality Inspector to join our team in Germantown, MD. DRS RADA Technologies, a subsidiary of Leonardo DRS, is focused on proprietary radar ...

Job Summary DRS RADA Technologies is seeking a Senior Quality Inspector to join our team in Germantown, MD. DRS RADA Technologies, a subsidiary of Leonardo DRS, is focused on proprietary radar ...

Showing results 41-60

Quality Inspector information

See Columbia, MD salary details

$12

$20

$31

How much do quality inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for quality inspector in Columbia, MD is $20.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.96 and $22.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a quality inspector do?

A Quality Inspector is responsible for examining products and materials for defects or deviations from specifications. They use various measuring tools and testing procedures to ensure that items meet required quality standards before they reach customers. Quality Inspectors document their findings, report issues to supervisors, and may recommend improvements to production processes. Their role is essential in maintaining product safety, reliability, and customer satisfaction.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a quality inspector?

To thrive as a Quality Inspector, you need strong attention to detail, knowledge of quality standards, and experience with inspection techniques, often supported by a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with measurement tools such as calipers, micrometers, and quality management systems (QMS) like ISO 9001 is essential. Excellent problem-solving skills, effective communication, and a commitment to teamwork are valuable soft skills in this role. These qualifications ensure products consistently meet safety and regulatory standards, minimizing defects and supporting operational excellence.

How does a quality inspector typically collaborate with production and engineering teams to resolve quality issues?

Quality Inspectors work closely with production and engineering teams to identify, document, and address quality concerns as they arise. When an issue is detected, inspectors provide detailed reports and may participate in root cause analysis meetings with engineers and production supervisors. Their insights help implement corrective actions and prevent recurrence, ensuring that all products meet the required standards. This collaborative environment promotes continuous improvement and fosters strong communication between departments.

What is the difference between Quality Inspector vs Quality Control Technician?

AspectQuality InspectorQuality Control Technician
CertificationsISO 9001, ASQ certificationsISO 9001, ASQ certifications
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, labsManufacturing facilities, labs
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, aerospace, automotiveManufacturing, electronics, pharmaceuticals
Primary FocusInspecting products for defects, ensuring standardsPerforming tests, measuring quality parameters

Both roles involve quality assurance in manufacturing settings and often require similar certifications. However, Quality Inspectors primarily focus on visual and dimensional inspection of products, while Quality Control Technicians perform testing and measurements to verify quality standards. Understanding these differences helps employers and job seekers identify the right role based on skills and responsibilities.

How much do quality inspectors earn?

Quality inspectors typically earn between $35,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and location. Entry-level inspectors may start at lower wages, while experienced professionals or those with specialized skills can earn higher salaries. Certifications and familiarity with inspection tools can also influence earnings.

What are the duties of a quality inspector?

A quality inspector is responsible for examining products and materials to ensure they meet specified standards and quality requirements. They perform inspections using tools like calipers and gauges, document findings, and identify defects or non-conformities to maintain product quality and safety. The role often requires attention to detail, knowledge of quality standards, and adherence to safety protocols.

What qualifications do I need to be a quality inspector?

To become a quality inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with experience or training in quality control, manufacturing, or a related field. Certifications such as Certified Quality Inspector (CQI) or training in inspection tools like calipers and gauges can enhance job prospects. Strong attention to detail, good communication skills, and familiarity with industry standards are also important.
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What job categories do people searching Quality Inspector jobs in Columbia, MD look for?

The top searched job categories for Quality Inspector jobs in Columbia, MD are:

What cities near Columbia, MD are hiring for Quality Inspector jobs?

Cities near Columbia, MD with the most Quality Inspector job openings:

Infographic showing various Quality Inspector job openings in Columbia, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,095 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

$44K - $98K/yr

Full-time, Other

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 368 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

67th of 545 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: No relocation assistance available CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: Yes CLEARANCE TYPE: Secret TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the Time Description At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way.

Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history. At the heart of Defining Possible is our commitment to missions.

In rapidly changing global security environments, Northrop Grumman brings informed insights and software-secure technology to enable strategic planning. We are looking for innovators who can help us keep building on our wide portfolio of secure, affordable, integrated, and multi-domain systems and technologies that fuel those missions. By joining in our shared mission, we 'II support yours of expanding your personal network and developing skills, whether you are new to the field, or an industry thought leader.

At Northrop Grumman, you 'II have the resources, support, and team to do some of the best work of your career. Start your future with a new mission, Northrop Grumman Mission Systems. Northrop Grumman Mission Systems, located in Sykesville, MD has an immediate need for a Quality Inspector.

A Quality Inspector performs complete quality inspection operations on a variety of purchased or manufactured materials, hardware, electrical components, electro-mechanical assemblies/systems and manufacturing processes using drawings, military specifications, process specifications and contractual requirements as well as internal (PROP) procedures that are applicable. This is a 2nd Shift position. Roles and Responsibilities: Evaluate completed sub-assemblies or systems to determine the cause of defective appearance or malfunctions.

Recommend design changes and other corrective actions and war room requests, working with Engineering to adhere to contractual and drawing requirements. Perform inspections using tooling and check lists for the complete inspection of sub-assemblies and systems. Interface with manufacturing operations and engineering personnel to improve processes and document issues.

Conduct inspections of complex components to determine, from visual and dimensional checks, piece/part conditions that contribute to, or cause, defects. Conduct investigations to detect conditions affecting functional aspects of the system and recommend solutions to eliminate current and/or future malfunctions. Perform first-piece, patrol, sampling, physical configuration audit, and final inspection on a variety of complete electromechanical LRUs and systems.

Visually inspect for appropriate electrical assembly specifications and standards. Determine and evaluate the cause of rejections and recommend changes in tooling/equipment, functions and/or materials to improve the quality of the completed product. Review procedures and techniques used to inspect materials, parts, units, and/or systems that improperly passed inspection, to make necessary corrections to prevent recurrence.

Perform ISO Audits as required by audit coordinator after receiving certification. Submit contract end item product as required. Customer and government (DCMA) interface are required for in-process inspections through final inspections as well as contract end item submittals and final pack/shipping processes.

This position requires a secret clearance as the work will be performed in a secure area. Basic Qualifications: High School Diploma and 2 years of related experience Quality, electromechanical assembly or operator experience Active U.S.Government Secret Clearance U.S. citizenship required Preferred Qualifications: SAP experience Drawing review experience Knowledge of geometric tolerancing Primary Level Salary Range: $44,825.00 - $98,131.00 The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions

Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives.

In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business. The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.

Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S

Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.


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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939