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Quality Inspector Jobs in Salinas, CA (NOW HIRING)

Manpower

Quality Inspector

Gilroy, CA

$31 - $34/hr

Quality Inspector - Incoming Inspection Pay: $31/hr day $34 Swing Schedule: Full-Time / Day & Swing shift available Location: Onsite Join Our Team as a Quality Inspector! Are you detail-oriented and ...

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Quality Inspector information

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$34

How much do quality inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for quality inspector in Salinas, CA is $21.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $24.81 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 cities near Salinas, CA are hiring for Quality Inspector jobs? Cities near Salinas, CA with the most Quality Inspector job openings:
Quality Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Quality Inspector job openings in Salinas, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,573 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

Quality Inspector

Manpower

Gilroy, CA

$31 - $34/hr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Quality Inspector – Incoming Inspection

Pay: $31/hr day $34 Swing
Schedule: Full-Time / Day & Swing shift available
Location: Onsite

Join Our Team as a Quality Inspector!

Are you detail-oriented and experienced in precision inspection? We are seeking a Quality Inspector to support our Incoming Quality Control team by performing dimensional and visual inspections on incoming materials, components, assemblies, and finished products. In this role, you'll play a critical part in ensuring products meet quality standards before being released to manufacturing.

This is an excellent opportunity for quality professionals with experience in inspection, metrology equipment, blueprint reading, and GD&T.

Key ResponsibilitiesIncoming Inspection & Quality Control
  • Perform detailed dimensional and visual inspections on incoming materials and components.
  • Verify product compliance with engineering drawings, specifications, and quality standards.
  • Inspect a variety of parts including:
    • Electronic assemblies
    • Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs)
    • Metal components and structures
    • Optical precision parts
    • Plastic components
  • Conduct First Article Inspections as required.
Documentation & Compliance
  • Review supplier documentation, certifications, and quality records for completeness and accuracy.
  • Record inspection results using computerized quality systems.
  • Create and maintain inspection history records and upload documentation to ERP systems.
  • Maintain material traceability and accurate inventory status throughout the inspection process.
  • Generate non-conformance reports for materials that fail incoming inspections.
Inventory & Material Handling
  • Utilize ERP systems to process and release materials for production.
  • Ensure proper handling and storage of materials to prevent damage or mix-ups.
  • Verify lot identification, material counts, and inventory accuracy.
  • Move inspected materials to designated release areas.
Communication & Collaboration
  • Communicate inspection findings with engineers and cross-functional teams.
  • Support continuous quality improvement initiatives.
  • Perform additional projects and duties as assigned.
QualificationsRequired Experience
  • 2–5 years of quality inspection, manufacturing, or quality control experience.
  • High School Diploma or equivalent required.
  • Experience reading and interpreting mechanical drawings and specifications.
  • Strong understanding of Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T).
Required Technical Skills
  • Experience using precision measuring equipment, including:
    • Calipers
    • Micrometers
    • Height gauges
    • Bore gauges
    • Dial indicators
    • Surface plates
  • Experience operating:
    • Optical Comparators
    • Vision Inspection Systems (Keyence, SmartScope, Dynascope, or similar)
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook).
  • Ability to accurately document inspection results and maintain quality records.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Associate Degree in Engineering or related technical field.
  • Experience working with SAP or other ERP systems.
  • Knowledge of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
  • Experience working in highly regulated manufacturing environments.
Physical Requirements
  • Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds.
  • Ability to stand, walk, and move materials throughout the workday.
What Makes You Successful?

✔ Strong attention to detail
✔ Excellent problem-solving skills
✔ Ability to work independently and as part of a team
✔ Commitment to quality and continuous improvement
✔ Strong organizational and documentation skills
✔ Comfortable working in a fast-paced manufacturing environment

If this is a role that interests you and you’d like to learn more, click apply now and a recruiter will be in touch with you to discuss this great opportunity. We look forward to speaking with you!

About ManpowerGroup, Parent Company of: Manpower, Experis, Talent Solutions, and Jefferson Wells

Manpower® is a global leader in contingent staffing and permanent resourcing, providing companies with strategic and operational flexibility and creating talent at scale. Our specialized recruiting teams assess and guide talent into meaningful, sustainable employment, while our PowerSuite technology enables deeper insight and smarter matching, helping candidates find opportunities that align with their strengths, experience, and career goals.

In this constantly shifting world, our flexible workforce solutions provide companies with the business agility needed to succeed. Manpower is part of the ManpowerGroup® (NYSE: MAN) family of brands, which also includes Experis, Talent Solutions and Jefferson Wells. For more information about Manpower, follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and Instagram.

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About Manpower

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Manpower is a world leader in employment services, creating and delivering services that enable job seekers and employers to win in the changing world of work. Founded in 1948, Manpower creates ideal temporary and permanent employment matches across skill, industry and business need, and provides workforce solutions to improve operational efficiency, performance and cost containment.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services and human resource programs administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Milwaukee, WI, US

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