Precision Inspectors, Testers & Graders
Description OES Code: 83002
Perform precision inspecting, testing, and grading of parts, products, and equipment for defects, wear, and deviations from specifications. The majority of these workers use precision measuring instruments and complex test equipment and hand tools. May make minor repairs.

Wages, California
Entry-Level Hourly Wage $7.19
25th Percentile $8.22
50th Percentile $11.97
75th Percentile $16.81

Wages by California County
• OES Survey
• CCOIS Survey

Hours & Benefits
Some inspectors work evenings, nights, or weekends. Shift assignments generally are made on the basis of seniority. Overtime may be required to meet production goals.

Employment Trends, California
Employment 1998 20,200
Projected Employment 2008 20,800
Percent Change 1998-2008 3.0%
Separations 1998-2008 4,200

Employment Trends, San Joaquin County
Employment 1999 70
Projected Employment 2006 70
Percent Change 1999-2006 0%
Separations 1999-2006 10

Employment Trends by California County

Working Conditions
Working conditions vary by industry and establishment size. As a result, some inspectors examine similar products for an entire shift, whereas others examine a variety of items. In manufacturing, it is common for most inspectors to remain at one workstation; in transportation, some travel from place to place to do inspections. Inspectors in some industries may be on their feet all day and may have to lift heavy objects, whereas, in other industries, they sit during most of their shift and do little strenuous work. Workers in heavy manufacturing plants may be exposed to the noise and grime of machinery; in other plants, inspectors work in clean, air-conditioned environments suitable for carrying out controlled tests.

Getting the Job & Other Information
Inspectors, testers and graders may find employment in the following industries: Lumber and Wood Products, Except Furniture; Primary Metal Industries; Fabricated Metal Products; Computer and Office Equipment; Industrial Machinery; Communications Equipment; Electronic Components and Accessories; Motor Vehicles and Equipment; Aircraft and Parts; Instruments and Related Products; Food and Kindred Products; Rubber and Plastics Products; Telephone Communication ; Electric Services; New and Used Car Dealers; Personnel Supply Services; Computer and Data Processing Services; Auto Repair, Services, and Parking; Automotive Repair Shops; Engineering and Management Services; Engineering & Architectural Services; Research and Testing Services; Administration of Veterans' Affairs.

For a list of current job listing, browse CalJOBS or America's Job Bank.

Skills & Other Requirements
The following skills are among those used by inspectors, testers, and graders: Apply Hazardous Materials Information; Apply Intermediate Technical Math (Algebra, Geometry, Number Sequences); Apply Interpersonal Communication Techniques; Apply Mathematics To Statistical Modelling; Apply Plywood/Veneer Product Knowledge; Apply Quality Assurance Techniques; Apply Research Methodology To Manufacturing & Commerce; Apply Technical Information To Manufacturing & Industrial Activities; Communicate Verbally/Writing; Comprehend, Apply & Communicate Technical Information; Conduct Investigations/Research; Conduct Performance Testing; Design/Conduct Tests Of Engineered Systems; Evaluate Material Specifications; Follow/Give Instructions; Inspect Components During Manufacture; Interpret Engineering Data/Reports From Computer; Keep Records & Maintain Files; Maintain Consistent Quality; Maintain Safe Work Environment; Meet Deadlines; Operate Business Machines; Operate Electronic Test Equipment; Operate Industrial/Nondestructive Testing Equipment; Operate Package/Banding Equipment; Operate Precision Measuring Tools & Equipment In Industrial Production; Operate Precision Test Equipment; Operate/Maintain Inspection Tools and Equipment;Plan/Organize Work; Prepare Reports; Read Blueprints/Technical Drawings; Read Production Layouts; Read Technical Drawings & Specifications; Read/Speak/Understand English For Aviation Communications; Read/Understand Operating Manuals; Recognize Characteristics Of Metals; Recognize Characteristics Of Plastics; Recognize Characteristics Of Pulps.,Recognize Wood Species & Characteristics, Sort Raw Materials/Products Used In Manufacturing;Test Electrical/Electronic Equipment As Part Of Manufacturing Process; Understand Manufacturing Methods & Techniques.

References
Oregon Labor Market Information Center Occupational Information Center

Related Occupations: Production Inspectors, Transportation Inspectors

Training: California Training and Education Providers (CTEP)