Quality Inspector

During the process of taking a medical device from the drawing board to the market place, the product needs to meet quality standards and requirements. The role of the quality inspector is to ensure that the manufacturing processes has created a device that meets the design specifications as represented by 3D computer models and 2D blueprints.  To accomplish this, inspectors will use a variety of devices and inspection equipment to confirm the dimensional and surface integrity of products.  These would include but not be limited to: micrometers, calipers, gage pins, optical comparators, video vision inspection equipment, coordinate measuring machines, etc.

Primary Responsibilities

A quality inspector will be responsible for:

• Evaluating production process documentation
• Performing inspections based on procedures developed by Quality Engineers
• Inspecting products using defined inspection tools and equipment
• Passing or failing a product or lot based on results obtained through required inspections
• Recording data and preparing formal reports
• Reading blueprints (GD&T)
• Perform required job functions in compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices as defined by the company’s Quality Management System

Educational Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED
• Quality Inspector Certification (CQI)

Qualities Needed in this Career

• Dexterity
• Math skills
• Mechanical skills
• Good documentation practices and personal organization

Salary

• $42,000-$57,000 per year

More Career Information

• “Occupational Outlook Handbook” at www.bls.gov/ooh/
• American Society for Quality, www.asq.org
• Chartered Quality Institute, www.thecqi.org

Educational Opportunities

• Southwest Tennessee Community College
• Tennessee College of Applied Technology
• Memphis
• Covington
• Jackson
• Whiteville
• Arkansas State University Mid-South