Quality controller job description

While formal qualifications are not always mandatory, many employers prefer quality controllers with a Certificate III in Manufacturing or Certificate IV in Quality Auditing. Previous QC/QA experience in manufacturing is highly valued, along with understanding of quality management systems (ISO 9001), measurement techniques and testing procedures. Basic computer skills for data entry and quality reporting are essential.

A Certificate IV in Quality Auditing typically takes 12-18 months to complete. It can be studied full-time, part-time, or through a traineeship while working in a manufacturing environment. The qualification covers quality systems, auditing techniques, inspection methods and compliance requirements.

Understanding of ISO 9001 quality management system standards is highly beneficial for quality controllers. While not always mandatory, knowledge of ISO 9001 principles, quality documentation, corrective actions and continuous improvement processes significantly enhances a quality controller’s effectiveness and career opportunities in manufacturing.

Quality controllers need proficiency with measurement and testing equipment including micrometers, calipers, gauges, and coordinate measuring machines (CMM). They must understand technical drawings, specifications and tolerances. Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking and the ability to identify trends in quality data are essential skills.

This depends on your production needs and volume. Permanent staff provide consistency in quality standards and build expertise with your products and processes. Casuals offer flexibility during peak production periods or for specific projects. Many manufacturers use a mix of both. See our guide on casual vs permanent employment trends.

Penalty rates under the Manufacturing Award 2020 apply for shift work, Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays. Manufacturing operations often require quality controllers on afternoon, night or rotating shifts. Use award interpretation software to calculate rates accurately.

Under the Manufacturing Award 2020, minimum engagement periods apply - typically 2 hours for casual employees and 4 hours for part-time employees. However, quality controller shifts often align with production shifts (commonly 8 or 12 hours). Check the award for specific requirements.

Key elements include: position title and classification level, employment type (casual/part-time/full-time), hourly rate, applicable award, reporting structure, main duties, work location, shift patterns and hours, PPE requirements, qualifications verification, and safety compliance responsibilities. Use our digital employment contracts to simplify this process.

Under the Manufacturing Award 2020, rosters must be provided at least 7 days in advance for part-time employees. Changes within this period require employee agreement. For casual employees, reasonable notice should be provided. Using rostering software helps support compliance and gives staff visibility of their upcoming shifts.

Quality inspection coverage should align with production operations. For continuous manufacturing, quality controllers may need to be rostered on rotating shifts to maintain quality oversight during all production hours. Consider production volume, critical inspection points, and regulatory requirements when planning quality controller rosters. Use rostering software to manage shift coverage.

Under the Manufacturing Award 2020, employees are entitled to meal breaks and rest breaks based on their shift length. Typically, a 30-minute unpaid meal break applies for shifts over 5 hours, and paid rest breaks of 10 minutes apply during shifts. Quality inspection duties must be covered during breaks to maintain production flow.

Yes, quality controllers can work overtime when required by production needs, urgent quality issues or end-of-batch testing. Overtime rates apply under the Manufacturing Award 2020 - typically time-and-a-half for the first 2-3 hours and double time thereafter. All overtime must comply with maximum hours and rest break requirements.