We might be biased, but the manufacturing industry is an exciting place to be for jobseekers. With so many paths to explore, myriad routes to progression and so much learning to do, it’s an industry with enough facets to keep anyone busy, moreover motivated in their career.

But today’s spotlight is about one of these paths only. Today, we’re talking about why manufacturing talent should consider a career in quality control.

So, what is quality control?

Quality control (QC) is an integral part of any manufacturing operation. Whether pharmaceutical, automotive, food and beverage, or any other product which springs to mind, there’s a team of QC specialists working hard to uphold both their stakeholder and customers’ expectations.

When you work within quality control, it’s your job to ensure (whether by overseeing or physically testing) that the products your customers eventually receive are free of defects and of the right standard. QC is a crucial part of any business so, when it comes to searching out a fulfilling, meaningful career path, you’re on the right track.

What sort of jobs are there for quality control in manufacturing?

Working in quality control can take many different paths, all involving their own set of tasks and responsibilities. You could become a QC generalist, or a specialist in one area. You could find yourself working on the line inspecting the products with your own eyes and hands, or you might veer down the path of leadership, reporting, and the related administration. In today’s world, many manufacturing businesses are undergoing some form of digital transformation; this means implementing software or technologies to improve their QC processes. Could it be your job to oversee and/or manage this process? To develop the technology to take things to the next level?

Put simply, the job titles and opportunities are endless, with a challenge ready to fit the skills you have – and to likely have you raring to learn some new ones, too.

What does a career path look like within quality control in manufacturing?

Here in Canada, the road is near infinite. Our manufacturing industry is one so diverse, so progressive, and also very proud. We hang our hat on the quality of our products – so the service you’re doing in QC for an employer is an important one.

As such, there are various ways to continue your learning and development. This could look like formal education in a workplace setting, or simply proving again and again your aptitude for and commitment to quality; a QC inspector’s goals are, naturally, aligned with that of the business they’re working with. So, prove yourself and your employer will take note.

What skills are needed in quality control jobs?

The beauty of a career in quality control lies in its relevance to everyone at large – the skills you need, you’ll be taught. More important perhaps are the personal attributes required.

Attention to detail is key to a successful run in quality control – pretty self-explanatory. But perhaps less obvious is the ability to spot patterns and, as such, deviations. You’ll likely live life more on the analytical side of things, naturally searching out solutions to any problems you find, and you’re always looking for ways to improve efficiency.

Why you should consider a career in quality control in manufacturing

While the manufacturing industry is rich with opportunities in general, quality control is something which every business not only needs, but depends on. You’ll find yourself entrenched in various aspects of the business, from customer perception and brand recognition to operations and perhaps even HR.

If an ongoing, ever-changing, fast paced career is what you’re looking for, quality control in manufacturing could just be for you. Get in touch.