Product Quality Assessor in New Hampshire Career Overview

As a Product Quality Assessor, you play a vital role in ensuring that products meet specific standards and requirements before they reach consumers. Your responsibilities often include the following:

  • Evaluation of Products: You assess products to identify any defects or deviations from established quality benchmarks, employing various testing methods and inspection techniques.

  • Quality Control: You implement quality control procedures to monitor production processes, ensuring that products consistently meet quality standards throughout their lifecycle.

  • Documentation and Reporting: You maintain meticulous records of quality assessments, test results, and compliance documentation. This information is essential for accountability and improvement processes.

  • Collaboration with Teams: You work closely with production teams, engineers, and management to communicate quality issues, suggest improvements, and facilitate solutions that enhance product integrity.

  • Consumer Safety and Satisfaction: Your efforts ensure not only that products are safe for consumers but also that they meet or exceed customer expectations, which is critical for maintaining brand reputation.

Your work as a Product Quality Assessor is integral to the manufacturing and service industries, ensuring reliability and fostering consumer trust in the products available in the market.

Product Quality Assessor Salary in New Hampshire

Annual Median: $48,980
Hourly Median: $23.55

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.

Required Education To Become a Product Quality Assessor in New Hampshire

To become a Product Quality Assessor, you will typically need the following educational qualifications and training:

  • Associate's or Bachelor's Degree:

    • A degree in Quality Control and Safety Technology provides a strong foundation in quality assurance principles, safety regulations, and industry standards.
    • A degree in Quality Control Technology emphasizes technical skills necessary for assessing and improving product quality, with practical applications in various industries.
    • Manufacturing Engineering or Manufacturing Engineering Technology degrees focus on the processes involved in manufacturing systems and the methods to enhance product quality through engineering principles.
    • An Associate’s or Bachelor's Degree in Health Information Technology can also be relevant, particularly in sectors like healthcare, where quality assessment is critical for compliance with regulations and standards.
  • Certification:

    • It may be beneficial to pursue industry-recognized certifications such as Certified Quality Auditor (CQA) or Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) to supplement your degree, though these are not strictly educational requirements.
  • Internships and Cooperative Education Programs:

    • Gaining practical experience through internships or cooperative education programs while pursuing your degree can enhance your understanding of product quality assessment in real-world settings.

These educational pathways will equip you with the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed in a career as a Product Quality Assessor.

Best Schools to become a Product Quality Assessor in New Hampshire 2024

DeVry University-Illinois

Naperville, IL

In-State Tuition:$14,392
Out-of-State Tuition:$14,392
Admission Rate:43%
Graduation Rate:43%
Total Enrollment:26,384

University of Phoenix-Arizona

Phoenix, AZ

In-State Tuition:$9,552
Out-of-State Tuition:$9,552
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:18%
Total Enrollment:88,891

John C Calhoun State Community College

Tanner, AL

In-State Tuition:$3,750
Out-of-State Tuition:$7,500
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:36%
Total Enrollment:8,163

Ivy Tech Community College

Indianapolis, IN

In-State Tuition:$4,487
Out-of-State Tuition:$8,777
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:31%
Total Enrollment:89,705

Texas A & M University-College Station

College Station, TX

In-State Tuition:$8,815
Out-of-State Tuition:$36,239
Admission Rate:63%
Graduation Rate:84%
Total Enrollment:74,014

Ultimate Medical Academy

Clearwater, FL

In-State Tuition:$N/A
Out-of-State Tuition:$N/A
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:50%
Total Enrollment:6,368
Product Quality Assessor Job Description:
  • Inspect, test, sort, sample, or weigh nonagricultural raw materials or processed, machined, fabricated, or assembled parts or products for defects, wear, and deviations from specifications.
  • May use precision measuring instruments and complex test equipment.

Product Quality Assessor Required Skills and Competencies in New Hampshire

  • Attention to Detail: You must possess a keen eye for detail to identify defects and ensure products meet specified standards.

  • Analytical Thinking: Strong analytical skills enable you to assess product performance and quality metrics thoroughly, helping you to make informed decisions regarding product evaluations.

  • Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with quality assessment tools and methodologies is essential. You should be comfortable using software and equipment related to product testing.

  • Problem-Solving Abilities: You must be capable of identifying issues and implementing effective solutions to enhance product quality and performance.

  • Communication Skills: Both verbal and written communication skills are important for reporting findings, collaborating with colleagues, and conveying quality standards to other departments.

  • Time Management: Efficiently prioritizing tasks and managing time is important to adhere to project deadlines and handle multiple assessments simultaneously.

  • Knowledge of Industry Standards: An understanding of relevant quality standards and regulations (such as ISO or Six Sigma) is vital for ensuring compliance and maintaining quality assurance protocols.

  • Team Collaboration: You should be able to work well in a team environment, contributing to group efforts to improve product quality and enhance overall processes.

  • Adaptability: The ability to adapt to changing quality standards, new technologies, and evolving industry practices is important for your success.

  • Customer Focus: Understanding customer needs and expectations allows you to align quality assessments with market demands, ensuring product relevance and satisfaction.

Job Duties for Product Quality Assessors

  • Discard or reject products, materials, or equipment not meeting specifications.

  • Mark items with details, such as grade or acceptance-rejection status.

  • Measure dimensions of products to verify conformance to specifications, using measuring instruments, such as rulers, calipers, gauges, or micrometers.

Technologies and Skills Used by Product Quality Assessors

Analytical or scientific software

  • Minitab
  • The MathWorks MATLAB

Computer aided design CAD software

  • Autodesk AutoCAD
  • Dassault Systemes SolidWorks

Desktop communications software

  • Skype

Basic Skills

  • Thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem
  • Writing things for co-workers or customers

Problem Solving

  • Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Job Market and Opportunities for Product Quality Assessor in New Hampshire

The job market for Product Quality Assessors in New Hampshire is characterized by steady demand and growth potential, especially as industries increasingly prioritize quality control in their manufacturing and production processes.

  • Demand: There is a consistent need for Product Quality Assessors across various sectors, including manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and consumer goods. Companies are recognizing the importance of maintaining high product standards, which drives the demand for professionals who can ensure compliance with regulatory and quality standards.

  • Growth Potential: The field is expected to experience growth as more businesses adopt quality management systems and seek to enhance their operational efficiencies. Emerging technologies, such as automation and data analytics, are influencing quality assessment practices, creating opportunities for assessors who can adapt to these changes.

  • Geographical Hotspots: Certain areas in New Hampshire are becoming notable hubs for Product Quality Assessors:

    • Manchester and Nashua: These cities have a robust manufacturing base and are home to various industries that emphasize quality assurance, including electronics and aerospace.
    • Concord: As the state capital, Concord has a growing number of government contracts and regulations that require skilled assessors, particularly in compliance and standard-setting roles.
    • Portsmouth: With its strategic position near the coast and various shipping and logistics companies, Portsmouth offers unique opportunities in quality assessment related to supply chain management.
  • Industry Trends: The focus on sustainability and environmentally friendly practices is altering the landscape for Product Quality Assessors. Companies are increasingly seeking assessors who can evaluate both product performance and environmental impact, creating a niche opportunity for those with expertise in this area.

By actively engaging with local industries and staying informed about evolving quality standards, you can position yourself favorably within the New Hampshire job market for Product Quality Assessors.

Additional Resources To Help You Become a Product Quality Assessor in New Hampshire

  • American Society for Quality (ASQ)
    Explore various resources including articles, certifications, and training opportunities for quality professionals.
    ASQ Website

  • Occupational Outlook Handbook - U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
    Access detailed information about job responsibilities, salary expectations, job outlook, and educational requirements for roles related to quality assessment.
    Occupational Outlook Handbook

  • National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)
    Review guidelines and standards for quality assurance in various industries, including links to research papers and articles.
    NIST Website

  • International Organization for Standardization (ISO)
    Learn about ISO standards that relate to product quality and how they can be applied in practice.
    ISO Website

  • Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA)
    Explore resources on quality assurance practices in education, which can be beneficial for product quality assessors in educational products.
    QAA Website

  • Institute of Quality Assurance (IQA)
    Access professional development resources and networking opportunities with other quality assurance professionals.
    IQA Website

  • American National Standards Institute (ANSI)
    Find information on standards development and best practices in quality assessment across various sectors.
    ANSI Website

  • Certified Quality Improvement Associate (CQIA) - ASQ Certification
    Consider obtaining certification to advance your career and demonstrate your expertise in quality assessment.
    CQIA Certification

  • LinkedIn Learning - Quality Management Courses
    Enroll in online courses related to quality management and assessment to enhance your skills and knowledge.
    LinkedIn Learning

  • Quality Digest
    Stay updated with trends, news, and insights in the quality industry through articles and blogs.
    Quality Digest Website

These resources will aid you in building a strong foundation and advancing your career as a Product Quality Assessor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Product Quality Assessor in New Hampshire

  • What does a Product Quality Assessor do?
    A Product Quality Assessor evaluates products to ensure they meet required standards and specifications. This includes conducting inspections, testing, and analyzing product quality during various stages of production.

  • What qualifications are needed to become a Product Quality Assessor?
    Typically, a bachelor's degree in quality assurance, engineering, manufacturing, or a related field is required. Additionally, certifications such as the Certified Quality Auditor (CQA) can enhance your qualifications.

  • What skills are important for a Product Quality Assessor?
    Key skills include attention to detail, analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication skills. Familiarity with quality control processes and standards is also essential.

  • What industries employ Product Quality Assessors?
    Product Quality Assessors are employed in various industries such as manufacturing, food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, consumer electronics, and automotive, among others.

  • What is the typical work environment for a Product Quality Assessor?
    You will often work in manufacturing facilities, laboratories, or office settings. The role may require you to spend time on the production floor interacting with machinery and processes.

  • Are there growth opportunities in this career?
    Yes, there are ample growth opportunities within this field. With experience, you may advance to managerial roles, become a quality assurance manager, or specialize in certain quality assessments or industries.

  • What are the common challenges faced in this role?
    Common challenges include managing time effectively to meet inspection deadlines, staying updated with changing regulations or standards, and addressing quality issues in a timely manner.

  • How does technology impact the role of a Product Quality Assessor?
    Technology plays a significant role through the use of automated testing and data analysis software. Familiarity with quality management systems and tools can enhance your efficiency.

  • What is the salary range for a Product Quality Assessor in New Hampshire?
    Salaries can vary based on experience, education, and industry. On average, a Product Quality Assessor in New Hampshire can expect to earn between $55,000 and $85,000 annually.

  • What professional organizations are beneficial for Product Quality Assessors?
    Joining organizations such as the American Society for Quality (ASQ) or the International Quality Federation (IQF) can be beneficial for networking, professional development, and staying informed about industry trends.