As of March 01, 2026, the average salary for a Quality Control Inspector I in the United States is $48,565 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $23.
However, a Quality Control Inspector I's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Quality Control 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 Quality Control 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Quality Control Inspector I | 0-1 years | $48,565 |
| Quality Control Inspector II | 1-3 years | $53,292 |
| Quality Control Inspector III | 3-5 years | $67,338 |
| Quality Control 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 Quality Control 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
|
$58,278 |
20%
|
|
Client Service
|
$55,364 |
14%
|
|
Facilitation
|
$54,878 |
13%
|
|
Hard Working
|
$54,393 |
12%
|
|
Quality Management
|
$53,422 |
10%
|
|
SOP
|
$52,450 |
8%
|
Your level of education can impact your salary potential. While many Quality Control 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 Quality Control Inspector I with a High School Diploma or Technical Certificate is between $40,974 and $43,347).
Quality Control 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 Quality Control 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 Quality Control 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Quality Control Inspector II | $53,292 | 10% |
| Product Inspector II | $49,782 | 3% |
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Compensation PlanningHere are companies hiring for Quality Control Inspector I and their salaries, click below for more details.
Ready to take the next step in your career? Browse thousands of current Quality Control Inspector I job openings on our job board. Use the search bar below to find your perfect match.
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A Quality Control Inspector I's earning potential can vary widely depending on several factors, including location, industry, experience, education, and the specific employer. According to the latest salary data by Salary.com, a Quality Control Inspector I earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of a Quality Control Inspector I is $61,255.
The highest pay for Quality Control Inspector I is $57,504.
The lowest pay for Quality Control Inspector I is $41,208.
Performs quality control inspections, checks, and tests during the manufacture of products. Inspects materials, parts and products at different stages of production. Records observations and may make recommendations for improving processes. Requires a high school diploma or its equivalent. Typically reports to a supervisor. May require 0-1 year of general work experience. Possesses a moderate understanding of general aspects of the job. Works under the close direction of senior personnel in the functional area.
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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