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Quality Inspector Jobs in Columbia, MD (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

This position is ideal for candidates with experience in manufacturing quality, inspection, or compliance who thrive in structured, detail-oriented environments.Exo Talent Partners is supporting a ...

C. (M&J) is a quality provider of multi-discipline consulting services with over 300 employees ... M&J is a leader in construction management and inspection, ITS, mechanical, electrical, wastewater ...

C. (M&J) is a quality provider of multi-discipline consulting services with over 300 employees ... M&J is a leader in construction management and inspection, ITS, mechanical, electrical, wastewater ...

The QC Inspector works closely with a lead inspector to plan daily inspection routes and priorities. While the lead inspector primarily manages communication with contractors, QC Inspectors must also ...

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 Aug 15, 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 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.

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 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 those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries. Many inspectors work full-time, often in manufacturing, construction, or healthcare environments, and may require knowledge of inspection tools and standards.

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.

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 work of a quality inspector?

A quality inspector examines products or materials to ensure they meet specified standards and quality requirements. They perform inspections using tools like calipers or gauges, document findings, and may recommend corrective actions to prevent defects. This role often requires attention to detail and knowledge of quality control procedures and standards.
More about Quality Inspector jobs

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, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,095 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Senior Quality Inspector

Leonardo DRS

Germantown, MD

$74K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Leonardo DRS rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

117th of 540 rated manufacturers


Job description

Job ID: 114969
DRS RADA Technologies, a subsidiary of Leonardo DRS, is focused on proprietary radar solutions and legacy avionics systems supporting the defense industry globally. The company is a global pioneer of AESA tactical radars for active military protection, counter-drone applications, critical infrastructure protection, and border surveillance.
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 solutions and legacy avionics systems supporting the defense industry globally. The company is a global pioneer of AESA tactical radars for active military protection, counter-drone applications, critical infrastructure protection, and border surveillance.
Job Responsibilities
  • Perform complex inspection activities, to assess conformance of products to the design as defined by the engineering drawings and/or models
  • Inspect products, components, subassemblies, and/or systems to ensure conformance to requirements
  • Add organizational value by implementing innovative solutions and best practices involved in all processes of the product realization value stream
  • Support Quality Engineers with identifying non-conforming conditions that present existing or impending defective conditions at the system or subsystem level of assembly
  • Oversee the preparation of inspection plans and checklists for inspections
  • Aid with data collection and root cause analysis investigations
  • Generate discrepancy notices and initiate Material Review Board actions
  • Perform material movement transactions after completing inspection process
  • Specialize in receiving inspection, in-process inspection, process verification/auditing, final inspection, etc
  • Support, communicate, reinforce and defend the mission, values and culture of the organization

Qualifications
  • High school diploma or GED
  • 5+ years of experience
  • Defense or aerospace experience preferred
  • Experience with AS9100/ISO standards
  • In-depth understanding of relevant manufacturing standards (such as J-Std-001/IPC-A-610) or common mechanical techniques (such as geometric dimensioning and tolerance practices)
  • Ability to use various measurement devices (calipers, pin gauges, go/no-go gauges, etc) to verify mechanical part compliance
  • Experience reading mechanical drawings and able to verify parts dimensions against drawing requirements
  • Experience using a Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM), Optical comparator or other complex inspection systems is desired

U.S. Citizenship required. This position requires an active DOD security clearance or the ability to obtain such clearance within a reasonable time after commencement of employment.
The salary range for this position is $57,067.00-$74,187.00 . This range reflects the good faith estimate of pay the employer is willing to offer at the time of posting. Several factors can influence the pay scale, including but not limited to: Federal contract labor categories and contract wage rates, collective bargaining agreements, geographic location, business considerations, scope, and responsibilities of the position, local or other applicable market conditions, and internal equity. Other factors include the candidate's qualifications such as prior work experience, specific skills and competencies, education/training, and certifications. In addition to base pay, employees may be eligible for: annual performance-based bonuses, equity awards, and overtime pay (for non-exempt employees as applicable. Our benefits package includes comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision), employer matching 401(k) retirement plan, paid time off including vacation, holidays, and sick leave (including ant state-mandated paid sick leave), parental leave benefits, tuition reimbursement, professional development support, and life and disability insurance coverage.
Taking care of our people is a top priority at Leonardo DRS. We are proud to offer competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, a company contribution to a health savings account, telemedicine, life and disability insurance, legal insurance, and a 401(k) savings plan. We champion wellness programs that focus on physical, emotional, and financial well-being. We develop our talent by offering programs and activities to support career-growth, professional development, and skill enhancement. And we understand there is more to life than work, and the importance of offering flexible work schedules with our 9/80 program, competitive vacation, health/emergency leave, paid parental leave, and community service hours.
*Some employees are eligible for limited benefits only
Leonardo DRS, Inc. and its subsidiaries provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.
Our Vision. To be the leading mid-tier defense technology company in the U.S.
Our Values. The Leonardo DRS culture is defined by our Core Values and Principles:
- Integrity
- Agility
- Excellence
- Customer Focus
- Community & Respect
- Innovation
We strive to uphold them in all aspects of our business practices to inspire our employees and provide outstanding support for our customers.

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