Quality Control Analysts

SOC code 19-4099 · O*NET-SOC 19-4099.01 · Medium preparation needed · Science and engineering

Quality Control Analysts pay

U.S. national figures, May 2025 BLS survey · How we got this number

Median pay

$62,280

a year

Hourly

$29.94

per hour

10th$39,000Median$62,28090th$102,690

The solid band is the middle 50% of workers; the bar spans the 10th to 90th percentile.

Average pay

$66,280

$31.86 per hour

Middle 50%

$48,030 – $79,780

25th to 75th percentile

Full spread

$39,000 – $102,690

10th to 90th percentile

People employed

73,910

nationwide

National U.S. figure, May 2025. Local pay can be higher or lower.

These pay and employment figures are for the broader BLS group “Life, Physical, and Social Science Technicians, All Other”, not this job alone.

10th percentile: $39,000; $18.75/hr
25th percentile: $48,030; $23.09/hr
Median percentile: $62,280; $29.94/hr
75th percentile: $79,780; $38.36/hr
90th percentile: $102,690; $49.37/hr

What does a quality control analyst do?

Conduct tests to determine quality of raw materials, bulk intermediate and finished products. May conduct stability sample tests.

The tasks that matter most day to day

Conduct routine and non-routine analyses of in-process materials, raw materials, environmental samples, finished goods, or stability samples.
Interpret test results, compare them to established specifications and control limits, and make recommendations on appropriateness of data for release.
Calibrate, validate, or maintain laboratory equipment.
Ensure that lab cleanliness and safety standards are maintained.
Perform visual inspections of finished products.
Complete documentation needed to support testing procedures, including data capture forms, equipment logbooks, or inventory forms.
Compile laboratory test data and perform appropriate analyses.
Identify and troubleshoot equipment problems.

How to become a quality control analyst

Most people in this role hold high school diploma or the equivalent (such as a ged) — 38% of workers surveyed reported it as their level of education.

Preparation level: zone 3 — Medium preparation needed

Education: Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.
Experience: Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.
Training: Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.

See all zone 3 occupations →

Education reported by people doing this job

High School Diploma or the equivalent (such as a GED)38%
Bachelor's Degree28%
Associate's Degree or other 2-year degree10%
Post-Secondary Certificate10%

Common questions

How much does a quality control analyst earn?

The national median is $62,280 a year. The full range runs from $39,000 at the 10th percentile to $102,690 at the 90th — entry pay sits closer to the lower figure, and experience, licensing and specialisation move you up the range.

Can you become a quality control analyst without a degree?

Yes — this occupation sits in preparation zone 3, meaning the typical entry route is most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree. A four-year degree is not the standard requirement, though licensing or certification may still apply.

Skills and knowledge you need

Core skills

Reading Comprehension3.8/5
Monitoring3.8/5
Active Listening3.4/5
Writing3.3/5
Critical Thinking3.3/5
Speaking3.1/5
Active Learning3.1/5

Knowledge areas

Mathematics4.2/5
Production and Processing4.0/5
Chemistry3.7/5
English Language3.7/5
Administrative3.3/5
Computers and Electronics3.3/5
Food Production2.9/5
Mechanical2.9/5

Transferable strengths: Quality Control Analysis, Complex Problem Solving, Operations Monitoring.