As of March 01, 2026, the average salary for a QC Inspector I in the United States is $48,590 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $23.
However, a QC Inspector I's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A QC Inspector I's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location, education and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a QC Inspector I's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| QC Inspector I | 0-1 years | $48,565 |
| Intermediate Quality Control Inspector | 1-3 years | $53,292 |
| QC Inspector III | 3-5 years | $67,338 |
| QC Inspector IV | 5-7 years | $75,379 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract QC Inspector Is. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Customer Service | 6.75% |
| Data Entry | 2.95% |
| Quality Inspection | 2.45% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Building Relationships
|
$58,308 |
20%
|
|
Client Service
|
$55,393 |
14%
|
|
Facilitation
|
$54,907 |
13%
|
|
Hard Working
|
$54,421 |
12%
|
|
Quality Management
|
$53,449 |
10%
|
|
SOP
|
$52,477 |
8%
|
Your level of education can impact your salary potential. While many QC Inspector Is enter the field with a High School Diploma or Technical Certificate degree, higher education can lead to more specialized and higher-paying roles.
According to our 100% employer-reported salary data, the median salary for a QC Inspector I with a High School Diploma or Technical Certificate is between $40,545 and $43,048).
QC Inspector I Salaries by Degree Level
| Degree Level | % of user with this level of education |
|---|---|
| No Diploma | 59.2% |
| High School | 59.2% |
| Associates | 14.2% |
| Bachelors | 23.7% |
| Masters | 3.0% |
| Doctorate | 0.0% |
Understanding how a QC Inspector I's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on March 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a QC Inspector I, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Intermediate Quality Control Inspector | $53,300 | 10% |
| Product Inspection Technician II | $49,800 | 2% |
Salaries for a QC Inspector I can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $38,593 in 2023 to around $38,348 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of QC Inspector I salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
View More
|
| 2023 | $38,593 |
| 2024 | $38,500 |
| 2025 | $38,348 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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QA involves proactive measures to prevent defects, while QC focuses on reactive processes such as testing and inspection. QC Inspectors typically earn between $40,190 and $49,190, with a mid-salary of $44,290. This reflects the importance of their role in ensuring product quality through thorough inspection and testing.
Quality control inspectors usually require a high school diploma for entry-level positions. While a degree is not mandatory, postsecondary certificate programs can enhance skills in quality control concepts like inspection planning and auditing. Salaries for QC inspectors range from $40,190 to $49,190, with a median salary of $44,290.
The highest salary for a Quality Control Inspector is $49,190 per year, based on the provided salary data. The minimum salary starts at $40,190, while the mid-range salary is $44,290.
The highest salary for a Quality Control Inspector is $49,190 per year, based on the provided salary data. The minimum salary starts at $40,190, while the mid-range salary is $44,290.
The highest salary for a QC Inspector is ₹49,190. The top 10% of QC Inspectors earn more than ₹44,290 annually, while the top 1% earn above ₹40,190 per year.
A QC Inspector in the US earns between $40,190 and $49,190 annually, with a median salary of $44,290. This translates to an hourly wage ranging from approximately $19.32 to $23.63, with the midpoint being around $21.25. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and industry.
Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)
With the most extensive online, real-time compensation data available, Salary.com helps you pinpoint your exact pay target.
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