Product Quality Evaluator in North Dakota Career Overview

As a Product Quality Evaluator, you play a vital role in ensuring that products meet established standards of quality, safety, and functionality. Your work directly impacts customer satisfaction, regulatory compliance, and the overall reputation of the company you represent.

Key aspects of your role include:

  • Quality Assessment: You are responsible for evaluating products at various stages of production, identifying defects, and ensuring that they meet both internal and external quality standards.

  • Documentation and Reporting: You maintain detailed records of tests and evaluations, providing essential feedback to product development teams to enhance quality assurance processes.

  • Collaboration: Your interactions with cross-functional teams—including production, engineering, and marketing—allow you to advocate for quality improvements and ensure alignment across departments.

  • Regulatory Compliance: You ensure that products adhere to governmental regulations and industry standards, which is critical for avoiding legal issues and maintaining market access.

  • Customer Trust: Your expertise helps build and maintain customer trust, as you ensure that products perform as advertised and meet the needs of consumers.

Your contributions as a Product Quality Evaluator not only uphold standards of excellence but also help in avoiding costly recalls or negative public perceptions, making your role integral to the success of any manufacturing or production-focused organization.

Product Quality Evaluator Salary in North Dakota

Annual Median: $60,320
Hourly Median: $29

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

Required Education To Become a Product Quality Evaluator in North Dakota

To become a Product Quality Evaluator, you will need to pursue specific educational qualifications and training that are pertinent to the field. Here are the recommended college degree programs you should consider:

  • Quality Control and Safety Technology: This program focuses on teaching you the principles of quality assurance and safety in production processes. You will learn about quality standards, testing methods, and the importance of safety regulations in various industries.

  • Quality Control Technology: A degree in this field equips you with the skills necessary to assess product quality effectively. Your studies will cover statistical quality control, inspection techniques, and the implementation of quality improvement strategies.

  • Agricultural Business and Management: This program blends business acumen with agricultural principles, preparing you to evaluate product quality within the agricultural sector. You will gain insights into agricultural practices, supply chain management, and quality standards specific to food products.

  • Chemical Process Technology: This educational path focuses on the chemical manufacturing process and the technologies involved in quality evaluation. You will learn about chemical safety, process optimization, and methods to ensure that chemical products meet quality specifications.

You may also consider obtaining certifications relevant to quality evaluation to enhance your qualifications further.

Best Schools to become a Product Quality Evaluator in North Dakota 2024

Oklahoma State University-Main Campus

Stillwater, OK

In-State Tuition:$5,417
Out-of-State Tuition:$20,937
Admission Rate:71%
Graduation Rate:65%
Total Enrollment:25,372

Central Community College

Grand Island, NE

In-State Tuition:$2,820
Out-of-State Tuition:$4,230
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:43%
Total Enrollment:6,519

Lake Area Technical College

Watertown, SD

In-State Tuition:$3,720
Out-of-State Tuition:$3,720
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:70%
Total Enrollment:2,238

Purdue University-Main Campus

West Lafayette, IN

In-State Tuition:$9,718
Out-of-State Tuition:$28,520
Admission Rate:53%
Graduation Rate:83%
Total Enrollment:51,528

Kansas State University

Manhattan, KS

In-State Tuition:$9,489
Out-of-State Tuition:$25,560
Admission Rate:95%
Graduation Rate:69%
Total Enrollment:19,722

Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology

Tulsa, OK

In-State Tuition:$19,591
Out-of-State Tuition:$19,591
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:65%
Total Enrollment:639
Product Quality Evaluator Job Description:
  • Conduct tests to determine quality of raw materials, bulk intermediate and finished products.
  • May conduct stability sample tests.

Product Quality Evaluator Required Skills and Competencies in North Dakota

  • Attention to Detail: You must be able to notice subtle variations and discrepancies in product quality. Precision in observation ensures that you can identify defects or areas for improvement.

  • Analytical Skills: Your ability to interpret data and assess quality measures is vital. This includes evaluating test results, understanding statistical methods, and making informed decisions based on your findings.

  • Problem-Solving Skills: You should be adept at identifying quality issues and formulating effective solutions. This involves a proactive approach to troubleshooting and continuous improvement.

  • Communication Skills: You need to convey quality-related information clearly to team members and stakeholders. Proficiency in both verbal and written communication is necessary for drafting reports and facilitating discussions.

  • Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with quality control software and tools is essential. You should be comfortable using measurement and testing equipment relevant to your industry.

  • Knowledge of Quality Standards: An understanding of industry standards such as ISO, Six Sigma, or any relevant regulatory compliance expectations is important. You should be able to assess how these norms apply to your specific work environment.

  • Organizational Skills: Your ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize responsibilities, and maintain meticulous records ensures efficient workflow and accurate reporting of quality control processes.

  • Team Collaboration: Working closely with engineering, production, and supply chain teams is often part of your role. You'll need to foster cooperative relationships to ensure seamless integration of quality standards.

  • Adaptability: The ability to adjust to new technologies, processes, and products is important. Continual learning and flexibility can help you keep up with changes in product development and quality assurance practices.

  • Customer Focus: Understanding customer requirements and expectations will guide your evaluation processes. You should be attuned to how product quality impacts user satisfaction and brand reputation.

Job Duties for Product Quality Evaluators

  • Calibrate, validate, or maintain laboratory equipment.

  • 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.

Technologies and Skills Used by Product Quality Evaluators

Data base user interface and query software

  • Microsoft SQL Server
  • Structured query language SQL

Desktop communications software

  • Eko

Program testing software

  • Hewlett Packard LoadRunner
  • Selenium

Basic Skills

  • Keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements
  • Reading work related information

People and Technology Systems

  • Figuring out how a system should work and how changes in the future will affect it
  • Measuring how well a system is working and how to improve it

Problem Solving

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

Job Market and Opportunities for Product Quality Evaluator in North Dakota

  • The demand for Product Quality Evaluators in North Dakota is currently on the rise, driven by a growing emphasis on quality assurance across various industries, including manufacturing, food production, and technology sectors.

  • As businesses increasingly prioritize product quality to meet both regulatory standards and consumer expectations, the need for professionals who can assess, test, and refine products is becoming more pronounced. This trend is expected to continue, leading to an upward trajectory in job opportunities within this field.

  • North Dakota's manufacturing sector, which includes machinery, agriculture products, and food processing, is a key market for Product Quality Evaluators. Companies are continually seeking to enhance their quality control processes to ensure compliance and increase consumer satisfaction.

  • Growth potential for Product Quality Evaluators exists not only within established industries but also in emerging sectors such as renewable energy. Initiatives surrounding wind and solar energy production are creating new roles focused on evaluating the quality of components and systems utilized in these fields.

  • Geographical hotspots for opportunities in this career include major urban centers such as Fargo, Bismarck, and Grand Forks. These cities host a concentration of industries that rely on stringent product quality evaluations, thereby creating a robust job market for evaluators.

  • Networking within local industry associations and attending job fairs can enhance your visibility and connections, making it easier to discover potential opportunities in this field.

  • The increasing trend towards automation and advanced manufacturing processes means that evaluators with knowledge of technology and systems will find themselves in high demand. As industries adopt more sophisticated methods of production, the role of the Product Quality Evaluator will become even more integral.

  • Finally, as consumer awareness and demand for quality products continue to grow, businesses across North Dakota will likely invest more in quality assurance roles, further solidifying the job market for Product Quality Evaluators in the region.

Additional Resources To Help You Become a Product Quality Evaluator in North Dakota

  • American Society for Quality (ASQ)
    Website: www.asq.org
    ASQ is a leading authority on quality management and improvement. Explore resources such as articles, certifications, and training related to product quality evaluation.

  • National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)
    Website: www.nist.gov
    NIST provides a wealth of knowledge on quality standards and measurement practices. Their publications and guidelines can be valuable for understanding industry standards.

  • Product Quality Institute
    Website: www.productqualityinstitute.com
    This organization offers training and certification programs specifically for those involved in product quality evaluation. Their resources help enhance professional skills.

  • International Organization for Standardization (ISO)
    Website: www.iso.org
    Find global standards for quality control and assurance. Understanding ISO standards can enhance your ability to assess product quality effectively.

  • Quality Assurance Resource Center
    Website: www.qualityassuranceresourcecenter.com
    This platform provides articles, manuals, and tools focused on quality assurance processes, valuable for practical knowledge in product evaluation.

  • Institute for Quality Assurance
    Website: www.iqa.org
    IQA offers various resources related to quality assurance practices and methodologies. Their webinars and training sessions can be beneficial for continuous learning.

  • Lean Enterprise Institute
    Website: www.lean.org
    While focused on lean practices, this institute offers insights into quality improvement techniques that can be applied to product evaluation processes.

  • Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)
    Website: www.cpsc.gov
    Stay informed about safety standards and regulations affecting consumer products. Understanding these guidelines is key for a Product Quality Evaluator.

  • Quality Progress Magazine
    Website: asq.org/quality-progress
    This magazine, published by ASQ, features articles on trends, tools, and techniques in quality management. Reading it can help you stay updated on the field.

  • LinkedIn Learning
    Website: www.linkedin.com/learning
    Explore courses related to product quality evaluation and quality management. These courses can help you enhance your skills and professional knowledge.

Utilizing these resources will support your development and knowledge as a Product Quality Evaluator and enable you to engage effectively with industry standards and practices.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Product Quality Evaluator in North Dakota

  • What is the primary role of a Product Quality Evaluator?
    As a Product Quality Evaluator, you assess products for quality, safety, and performance. Your primary responsibilities include conducting tests, analyzing results, and providing feedback to improve product standards.

  • What educational background is necessary for this career?
    Typically, a bachelor’s degree in engineering, quality assurance, manufacturing, or a related field is preferred. Relevant certifications in quality control or product evaluation can also enhance your qualifications.

  • What skills are important for a Product Quality Evaluator?
    Key skills include attention to detail, analytical thinking, problem-solving, effective communication, and familiarity with quality control methodologies and standards.

  • What types of products do Product Quality Evaluators work with?
    You may evaluate a wide range of products, including consumer goods, electronics, pharmaceuticals, and industrial equipment, depending on the industry you choose to work in.

  • Is experience required to become a Product Quality Evaluator?
    While entry-level positions may be available, experience in quality assurance or product testing can be beneficial. Internships or related work experience can provide valuable insights and skills.

  • What are common work environments for Product Quality Evaluators?
    You can find job opportunities in various settings, including manufacturing plants, laboratories, and corporate quality assurance departments. Some evaluators may also work remotely, depending on company policies.

  • What are the career advancement opportunities in this field?
    With experience, you may advance to senior evaluator roles, quality assurance manager positions, or specialized fields such as regulatory compliance or quality system auditing.

  • How does the evaluation process typically work?
    The process usually involves defining criteria for quality, selecting samples, conducting various tests and inspections, documenting results, and communicating findings to relevant stakeholders for possible improvements.

  • What tools or technologies are commonly used by Product Quality Evaluators?
    You may work with various tools such as statistical analysis software, inspection equipment, quality management systems, and testing devices tailored to the specific product being evaluated.

  • Are there professional organizations relevant to Product Quality Evaluators?
    Yes, organizations like the American Society for Quality (ASQ) and the International Quality Federation (IQF) provide resources, certification programs, and networking opportunities for professionals in quality evaluation.