Quality Control Analysts
Quality control analysts test raw materials, intermediate products, and finished goods to ensure they meet quality standards. They work in manufacturing facilities, pharmaceutical companies, food production plants, and other industries where product quality is critical. The role involves conducting tests, analyzing results, and documenting findings to maintain consistent quality throughout production.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against quality control analysts and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves running standardized tests on product samples, recording measurements and observations, and comparing results against established specifications. Analysts operate testing equipment, review lab data, and prepare reports documenting whether materials pass or fail quality requirements. They may conduct stability tests to track how products perform over time. Work includes collaborating with production teams to address quality issues and maintaining detailed records of all testing activities.
Who this work suits
Holland code CIR. Conventional work is organized, detail-oriented work with clear procedures. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You likely do well in this role if you enjoy methodical problem-solving and working with data and equipment. People who are detail-oriented, organized, and curious about how things work tend to succeed here, particularly those who prefer following established procedures and investigating why products don't meet standards.
What it takes
Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience). Most people in this occupation hold a certificate or training program.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Openings right now
- Retail Compliance and QC Analyst · Origin Bancorp · United States · Remote
Openings are read from employers’ own career pages and public job boards and change daily. Search all openings (free account) to filter by distance, pay and how well you qualify.
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oklahoma | $56,990 | $86,260 | $115,090 | 460 |
| District of Columbia | $62,900 | $79,230 | $90,120 | 150 |
| California | $62,620 | $78,350 | $97,540 | 10,090 |
| Washington | $54,070 | $73,530 | $91,400 | 980 |
| Alaska | $56,470 | $70,700 | $87,350 | 170 |
| Rhode Island | $56,950 | $69,630 | $83,670 | 210 |
| North Dakota | $51,020 | $69,350 | $76,040 | 180 |
| Georgia | $49,760 | $69,320 | $105,820 | 2,230 |
| Maryland | $59,710 | $68,390 | $97,240 | 3,510 |
| Kentucky | $51,810 | $68,230 | $86,320 | 320 |
| Virginia | $50,250 | $67,240 | $83,860 | 2,710 |
| Maine | $53,800 | $66,730 | $89,320 | 390 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Quality Process Analyst (CQPA) — American Society for Quality
- Oil Monitoring Analyst I (OMA) — Society of Tribologists and Lubrication Engineers
- Certified Quality Technician (CQT) — American Society for Quality
- Level I Laboratory Lubricant Analyst (LLA) — International Council for Machinery Lubrication
- Level II Laboratory Lubricant Analyst — International Council for Machinery Lubrication
- Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence (CMQ/OE) — American Society for Quality
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against quality control analysts and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 19-4099.01 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.