Quality Control Inspector Jobs in Portsmouth
Quality Control Inspector Jobs in Portsmouth
Main responsibilities:
• Inspect and test products to ensure they meet quality standards and specifications
• Identify and report any defects or non-conformances
• Maintain accurate records and documentation of inspections and tests
• Collaborate with production teams to resolve quality issues and improve processes
• Ensure compliance with company policies, procedures, and industry regulations
Required skills & qualifications:
• Strong attention to detail and observation skills
• Familiarity with quality control methods, tools, and techniques
• Ability to read and interpret technical documents, blueprints, and specifications
• Excellent communication and problem-solving skills
• Proficiency in using measuring instruments and testing equipment
• Knowledge of relevant industry standards and regulations
Experience:
• Minimum of 1-3 years of experience in quality control or a related field
• Experience in a manufacturing or production environment is preferred
• Specific experience may vary depending on the industry and company
Pay rates for Quality Control Inspector Jobs in Portsmouth:
• Entry-level positions: £20,000 – £25,000 per year
• Experienced inspectors: £25,000 – £35,000 per year
• Senior or lead inspectors: £35,000 – £45,000 per year
Please note that pay rates may vary depending on the company, industry, and the candidate’s level of experience and qualifications.
What is a Quality Control Inspector
A quality control inspector is a professional who examines products and materials for defects or deviations from specifications. They use various tools and techniques to test and measure items to ensure they meet quality standards. Quality control inspectors can work in many industries, including manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, food processing, and construction. Their primary goal is to identify issues before products make their way to customers, thereby protecting the company’s reputation and bottom line.
Quality control inspectors typically have the following responsibilities:
– Examining products and materials visually or using tools like micrometers, calipers, height gauges, and tape measures
– Performing tests on products to verify properties like hardness, tensile strength, and durability
– Recording inspection and test data, often using software programs
– Comparing findings to specifications and tolerances to determine if products pass or fail inspection
– Discussing defects and deviations with supervisors and production staff to troubleshoot issues
– Recommending improvements to production processes to boost quality
– Ensuring their inspection tools and equipment are properly calibrated and maintained
To be successful as a quality control inspector, an individual needs a keen eye for detail, math and mechanical aptitude, computer proficiency, physical stamina, and strong communication skills. Many inspector roles require a high school diploma, though some more technical positions may call for a certificate or associate’s degree in quality assurance or a related field. On-the-job training is common to teach the specific inspection techniques and standards used by a given company.
The Outlook for Quality Control Inspector Jobs in Portsmouth
Portsmouth, located on the south coast of England, has a diverse economy with a significant manufacturing and shipping presence due to its active port. Major employers in the area include BAE Systems, Airbus, and Rolls-Royce. The city is also home to Her Majesty’s Naval Base, which supports the Royal Navy.
With the prominence of manufacturing and related industries in Portsmouth, quality control inspectors can find opportunities in several sectors. According to labor market data, common employers seeking quality inspectors in the region include:
– Aerospace and defense firms inspecting parts and assemblies for military and civilian aircraft and ships
– Electronics manufacturers assessing components like circuit boards and wiring harnesses
– Medical device companies evaluating products like surgical instruments and diagnostic equipment
– Plastics and rubber fabricators testing materials and finished goods for automotive, consumer, and industrial applications
– Metal foundries and machine shops examining castings, forgings, and machined parts for adherence to customer requirements
The UK government projects steady demand for quality control inspectors in coming years, driven by ongoing needs for quality assurance across the manufacturing sector. While some routine inspection tasks may become automated, inspectors will still be needed to oversee systems, interpret data, and make judgments on complex products.
As of April 2023, leading job websites show dozens of openings for quality control inspectors in the Portsmouth area. Salaries generally range from £22,000 to £35,000 per year, depending on the industry and level of responsibility. Those with special certifications like ASQ’s Certified Quality Inspector credential may be able to command higher pay.
Skills and Qualifications Needed for Quality Control Jobs
While exact requirements vary by employer, most quality control inspector positions call for the following types of skills and qualifications:
Education and Training
– High school diploma or equivalent is typically the minimum; some roles may require a certificate or associate’s degree in quality assurance or a related technical field
– On-the-job training is often provided to learn specific inspection methods, tools, and standards
Technical Skills
– Proficiency with precision measuring tools like micrometers, calipers, height gauges, ring and plug gauges, and surface plates
– Knowledge of blueprint reading and interpretation of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T)
– Familiarity with statistical process control (SPC) methods
– Understanding of failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA)
– Comfort using computer systems to record and analyze data
Mechanical and Math Aptitude
– Ability to visualize how parts fit together into assemblies
– Skill in performing mathematical calculations and taking accurate measurements
– Analytical mindset to identify root causes of quality issues
Physical Capabilities
– Sufficient vision to detect small defects and color variations
– Finger dexterity to handle small parts and tools
– Ability to stand for long periods and lift items weighing up to 25kg
Soft Skills
– Strong attention to detail
– Good verbal and written communication abilities
– Talent for working both independently and collaboratively with production staff
– Sound judgment and decision-making skills
Pursuing a Career as a Quality Control Inspector in Portsmouth
For individuals interested in quality control inspector jobs in the Portsmouth area, there are several ways to find opportunities and advance in the field:
Seeking Openings
– Search online job boards like Indeed, Monster, CV-Library, and specialist manufacturing job sites using keywords like “quality inspector” and “quality control”
– Visit the websites of major manufacturing employers in the Portsmouth region and check their careers pages for openings
– Attend local job fairs, particularly those focused on manufacturing, aerospace, or defense
– Network with contacts at manufacturing firms in the area and let them know you are seeking quality assurance roles
– Consider working with a recruiter who specializes in placing manufacturing professionals
Getting Qualified
– If you don’t have prior experience, look for apprenticeship programs that can provide on-the-job training
– Consider earning a certificate in quality assurance from a community college or vocational school; some programs may be available online
– If you already have a technical associate’s or bachelor’s degree, you may be able to find quality inspector roles that align with your background (e.g. a mechanical engineering technology degree may suit you for inspecting machined parts)
– Look into portable credentials like ASQ’s Certified Quality Inspector; while not always required, these can make you a more competitive candidate
Progressing Your Career
– Take advantage of on-the-job training to learn new inspection methods and tools, and to gain exposure to different products
– Express interest in taking on more responsibility, like training junior inspectors or suggesting process improvements
– Stay on top of emerging quality assurance technologies and statistical methods
– Consider earning additional credentials like ASQ’s Certified Quality Technician or Certified Quality Engineer
– With sufficient experience and knowledge, you may be able to advance into roles like lead inspector, quality supervisor, or quality engineer
Conclusion
Quality control inspector jobs play a vital role in the manufacturing economy of Portsmouth, helping ensure that products across sectors like aerospace, electronics, medical devices, and metal fabrication meet rigid standards. Individuals with strong attention to detail, mechanical and math aptitude, and related technical skills can find rewarding opportunities in the field.
With the right combination of education, on-the-job training, and portable certifications, quality inspectors in Portsmouth can enjoy a stable career path with room for advancement. And by keeping defective products from reaching end users, these professionals perform an invaluable service to their employers, their community, and the global customers who rely on goods made in the region.
FAQs – Quality Control Inspector Jobs in Portsmouth
1. What does a Quality Control Inspector do in Portsmouth?
A Quality Control Inspector in Portsmouth is responsible for ensuring that products and services meet the required quality standards. They inspect, test, and evaluate materials, components, and finished products to identify defects and ensure compliance with specifications.
2. What qualifications are needed to become a Quality Control Inspector in Portsmouth?
Typically, a high school diploma or equivalent is required. However, some positions may require a bachelor’s degree in a related field such as engineering or quality management. Relevant experience and certifications, such as ASQ Certified Quality Inspector (CQI), can be beneficial.
3. What industries employ Quality Control Inspectors in Portsmouth?
Quality Control Inspectors are employed in various industries in Portsmouth, including manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, food processing, and pharmaceutical industries. They work in factories, workshops, and laboratories to maintain quality standards.
4. What skills are important for a Quality Control Inspector in Portsmouth?
Important skills include attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, knowledge of quality control methods and tools, proficiency in using measuring instruments, and strong communication and documentation skills. Familiarity with relevant industry standards and regulations is also crucial.
5. What is the job outlook for Quality Control Inspectors in Portsmouth?
The job outlook for Quality Control Inspectors in Portsmouth is generally stable, as quality control remains a critical aspect of various industries. However, the demand may vary depending on the specific industry and economic conditions in the region.