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Careers · Management

Quality Control Systems Managers

Quality Control Systems Managers oversee quality assurance programs in manufacturing, laboratories, and production facilities. They develop policies, establish testing procedures, and monitor compliance to ensure products meet standards. These managers work across industries including pharmaceuticals, food production, electronics, and automotive manufacturing.

$126,060median pay, U.S., per year
$98,160–$161,880middle half earn
246Kemployed in the U.S.
Bachelor’s degreetypical education · 100% hold a bachelor’s or higher
HighAI exposure · AI tools can speed up many tasks. Skills in using them will matter, and some roles may change.
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A day in the work

A typical week involves reviewing quality data from production lines, meeting with department heads about compliance issues, and updating control procedures based on test results. Managers inspect facilities, analyze reports for defects or inconsistencies, and implement corrective actions when problems arise. They also train staff on quality standards and document all processes to maintain regulatory compliance.

Who this work suits

Conventional
74Enterprising
68Investigative
52Realistic
43Social
18Artistic
5

Holland code CEI. Conventional work is organized, detail-oriented work with clear procedures. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.

You thrive with systematic processes and attention to detail, enjoying structured environments where rules and procedures matter. You're comfortable taking charge, making decisions that affect operations, and driving improvements that increase efficiency and reduce defects.

What it takes

Preparation: Considerable preparation (most need a bachelor’s degree and several years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold a bachelor’s degree.

Skills that matter most

Reading ComprehensionQuality Control AnalysisJudgment and Decision MakingActive ListeningWritingSpeakingMonitoringCritical Thinking

Knowledge areas

Production and ProcessingEducation and TrainingEnglish LanguageChemistryCustomer and Personal ServiceAdministration and Management

Pay by state

State25th pctMedian75th pctEmployed
Delaware$129,290$153,000$178,190370
Wyoming$125,420$151,490$170,900390
Massachusetts$125,390$148,050$184,0504,470
New Jersey$114,490$147,260$177,8706,780
New Hampshire$120,660$146,590$191,6201,540
Washington$135,210$145,210$172,1404,760
Colorado$108,170$141,020$189,3001,730
Connecticut$106,140$134,780$163,2703,360
Louisiana$103,880$133,210$168,5602,680
California$102,490$132,620$173,66025,130
Maryland$102,550$132,540$167,1102,480
Texas$98,260$130,890$165,98021,200
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico

Certifications people in this field hold

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

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Four short assessments and your background, scored against quality control systems managers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
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O*NET-SOC 11-3051.01 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.