Why this matters:
Quality control inspectors rely on a variety of programs for analytics, compliance control, customer satisfaction management, and more. While some tools are considered industry standards, new technology rolls out every year. What’s most important is their willingness to learn and adapt to new technology.
What to listen for:
- Eagerness to discuss the meticulous details of various software solutions
- Willingness to learn new software and tools as necessary
Why this matters:
Testing is a critical part of the product development process and often a legal requirement to work with another company. Answers will vary based on the product at hand, but most processes progress through testing phases in a similar way. Experienced quality control inspectors should be able to discuss how they evaluated various aspects of products over the course of their career.
What to listen for:
- References to concepts such as control audits, safety, sanitation, and product specification assurance
- Thorough understanding of important quality control use cases
Why this matters:
Scheduling new manufacturing efforts cannot be done independently of other facility commitments. Priorities must be established, milestones determined, and a start and completion date negotiated. Changing priorities, manufacturing mistakes, and design changes all contribute to delays. A good quality control inspector can control these factors with a systems approach that cuts across functions and disciplines.
What to listen for:
- Practices followed, such as review of production control documents, manufacturing plans, inspection requirements, and vendor and supplier requirements
- Details that justify why particular practices are favored
Why this matters:
Quality control is part solo work, part team effort. It’s important for a quality control inspector to collaborate with others on a regular basis to solve problems, make recommendations, and put effective protocols in place. Any impactful quality control inspector will have a collaborative spirit with an independent focus.
What to listen for:
- Respect for coworkers’ expertise, and an understanding of why collaboration is essential
- Confidence in the value of collaboration for fostering strong team relationships
Why this matters:
With this question, you’ll gain insight into the candidate’s eye for detail and their problem-solving skills. The best quality control inspectors are proactive about identifying potential vulnerabilities, implementing fixes, and strategizing ways to prevent further issues.
What to listen for:
- Forward-thinking approach for solving problems and preventing them from recurring
- Quick thinking and leadership ability to efficiently de-escalate problems
Why this matters:
Quality control sometimes involves tedious yet vital tasks, so you want to find an inspector who can deal with the repetition — without losing focus. Strong candidates will be familiar with the nature of the work and understand that repetition is part of what makes their job so important. They’ll also feel comfortable maintaining engagement in their work, whatever the task.
What to listen for:
- An understanding that repetition yields a stronger quality control process
- Eagerness to uncover opportunities to improve processes through automation
Why this matters:
This question can help you assess which soft skills your candidate values most in others — and how they see themselves. Quality control inspectors need strong interpersonal skills as well as technical prowess. Their answer will also give you a good sense of how they’ll fit in with the rest of your team — and whether they’ll bring something new to the table.
What to listen for:
- An emphasis on teamwork and keen eye for detail
- Skills that can complement the existing quality control team’s competencies
Why this matters:
Asking a candidate to talk you through a large-scale assignment will give you insight into their overall experience as a quality control inspector. Top candidates will have a proven track record of taking projects from conception to actionable results — and working through the complex quality assurance challenges involved.
What to listen for:
- Solid iterative process for tackling challenging projects
- Ability to account for stakeholder feedback when crafting a successful process
Why this matters:
This question can help you spot individuals with passion and ambition. Technology that’s hot one year can become obsolete the next. Quality control inspectors must have a commitment to continuous learning to ensure their skills don’t become outdated. If they’re deeply passionate about technology and its use in improving quality, they’re likely to thrive in the position.
What to listen for:
- Ability to easily discuss preferred tools, thought leaders, publications, and more
- Mention of current participation in networking groups or classes to update skills
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