1. Stanford University
Stanford, CA • Private
In-State Tuition
$51,354
Enrollment
7,083
A quality control scientist conducts tests to determine the quality of raw materials, bulk intermediate, and finished products. May conduct stability sample tests. Their main duty is testing and assessing products, usually in an industrial or warehouse setting. The quality control scientist may test parts or products using a variety of techniques, checking that specifications are met and that the product works as intended.
Essential skills required to qualify for the position include excellent technical skills, leadership skills, planning and organizational skills, communication, and interpersonal skills, among others. Furthermore, they perform analysis on raw materials, intermediates, standards, and finished products, and also carry out routine maintenance activities for QC systems and meet quality and safety standards.
Quality control scientists can find work with a high school diploma or G.E.D. However, many companies are now seeking candidates who have a certificate in quality control from a community college or technical school. This is typically a two-year program that covers quality control principles and best practices and may prepare students for certification through an organization like the American Society for Quality.
Quality control scientists make an average of $32.83 an hour during a traditional workweek. This amounts to over $68,000 a year.
