Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers

Workers in this role evaluate nonagricultural materials, machined parts, and assembled products to detect defects, wear, or deviations from specifications. Day-to-day tasks involve monitoring production processes, inspecting equipment, and identifying specific objects or actions. They frequently use precision measuring instruments and complex testing equipment to judge the quality of items and ensure compliance with standards. Documenting information, making decisions to solve problems, and communicating findings to supervisors and peers are also core parts of the job.

This occupation strongly appeals to individuals with realistic interests who enjoy hands-on, practical work. Success in this field requires skills in quality control analysis, critical thinking, monitoring, and active listening. Workers must have a solid understanding of production and processing, mathematics, mechanical principles, and public safety. Key work styles include a high level of attention to detail, cautiousness, dependability, and integrity when evaluating materials.

To enter this career, individuals typically need a high school diploma. The occupation is classified under O*NET Job Zone 2, meaning it requires some preparation, which usually includes a combination of a high school education and some on-the-job training or previous work experience. Students interested in this field may pursue college majors in quality control and safety technologies or techniques.

Depending on the industry, workers can obtain professional certifications to demonstrate their expertise. Examples of these credentials include the Aggregate Testing Technician - Level 1, Aggregate Base Testing Technician, Certified Cement Physical Tester, and Certified Post-Installed Adhesive Anchor Installation Inspector, all offered by the American Concrete Institute International. Other options include the API QUTE Qualification of Ultrasonic Testing Examiners from the American Petroleum Institute and the Certified Composites Technician credential from the American Composites Manufacturers Association. Additionally, some states list licensing requirements for this line of work.

According to 2025 data, the median annual pay for these workers is $48,570. This means half of the workers in this field earn more than this amount, and half earn less. The lowest 10% of earners make less than $35,510, while the highest 10% earn more than $77,860.

There are 597,370 people employed in this occupation. Between 2025 and 2035, employment is projected to grow by 2.5%, which is as fast as the average for all occupations. Despite this modest growth rate, the field offers steady opportunities, with an estimated 66,700 job openings projected each year.