Do you see yourself a leader? When have you led a team?

"I do see myself as a leader. I currently oversee the 2nd shift production line. I monitor host team meetings, disseminate information, monitor performance, approve scheduling and time sheets, etc."

Perhaps you have led a club at work, been a coach for a youth sports team, or were on the advisory board for a non-profit organization. You should always be prepared to show the interviewer that you have a natural ability to lead others. Whether you have led a group of 500 or a team of 2, you must display to the interviewer that you are capable of handling the responsibility that comes with being a leader and mentor. Talk about your desire to be a leader. Share with the interviewer that you strive to be a role model for others. Explain that you jump at the opportunity to lead groups, encourage your counterparts, and be a face of the organization when challenges arise.

"In my current position, I am the president of the social committee. I love that I have the opportunity to encourage employee engagement while being a positive influence on the workplace culture. I am a natural leader because I start with leading by example. As a leader, I make myself available to others who need mentor-ship, a bit of assistance in adjusting to their role, or just a listening ear when they've had a tough day. I am confident in my leadership abilities and look forward to joining your team in a leadership role."

"I see myself as a leader. Not only have I managed a team in two prior roles, but also I believe that leadership does not always equate to management. I am sure to lead at all times by providing the best model of enthusiasm and work ethic. I am open to new ideas and love to tackle a new project which, to me, embodies leadership. "

Would you be willing to work over 40 hours a week?

"If overtime is required in this role, I am happy to accommodate whenever I can. My only restriction is that I cannot work Wednesday nights as I have an evening course those days."

Before answering scheduling questions, it's important to be clear on the interviewer's expectations. If you haven't had a chance to clarify their scheduling needs, now would be the perfect time to ask! Consider asking, 'What are the scheduling expectations for this position?' If they expect you to work 12 hour days, it would be important for you to know that before you respond with, 'Absolutely! No problem!' You want to be sure that you can meet their expectations. If it turns out their schedule expectations won't work for you, think about what you CAN offer and see if you can meet in the middle. It's much better to discuss these things in an interview than for you to commit to a schedule that won't work for you. Keep in mind that, in most states, an employer cannot demand that an employee work more than 44 hours per week.

"I am available for full-time work which is preferably 8-5 Monday to Friday. I am happy to be a team player and work some overtime, as required. Will these hours meet your expectations?"

"I am willing to work overtime, but how much and how often are the first questions that come to mind. I firmly believe that downtime, or personal time, is essential to recharging your batteries and staying focused. I am happy to be a team player and take on a variety of schedules."

What are your salary expectations?

"As I am new to my career and this industry, I am happy to negotiate my earnings based on your typical salary for this role."

The best thing that you can do when asked about your salary expectations is to be open and honest about what you are currently earning, and where you want to be in the future.

"I can share with you what I am currently earning, and where I would like to be in my next position. Currently, I am earning a base salary of $38K plus an annual bonus opportunity of an additional 10%. Last year my earnings were $41K, and I'd like to earn a bit above that in my next position."

"I am negotiable with my salary expectations. However, I am not inclined to lose compensation. Compensation to me, though, is not just net pay. I take into account work hours, drive time, benefits, etc. I currently earn a base pay of $58K."

List the Quality Control software and programs you are well versed in. What is your level of expertise in each?

"During my time in University, we were trained on Qualio, MasterControl, and the entire Microsoft Office suite. I would say that I'm between beginner and intermediate level in these programs. Which software/programs do you use here?"

Talk to the interviewer about your technical skills and level of proficiency in every applicable program you have used. Be sure to include internal and external programs that you know and understand. You can also talk about any programs/software that you would like to gain additional knowledge in. To make your skill level more apparent, you can rate yourself from 1-10 or use terms like beginner, intermediate, advanced, or expert.

"In my current position I work with IntellectQMS the most. I am an expert user with that system. I also bring intermediate level experience in 1factory and uniPoint."

"Since I have been in quality control for the past eight years, I have been exposed to a variety of programs/software. I understand that you use Qualio and IntellectQMS here. I am an advanced user in each."

Tell me about a time when you have had to make a big decision, such as shutting down a production line. How did you come to the conclusion and how did you proceed?

"I have not been responsible for any large decisions like this, as I recently started my career in Quality Control. With that said, I would follow the company's protocols when it came to product standards. If those standards were not being me, I would follow the process of shutting down the production line."

The interviewer would like to know how you process big decisions. Making big decisions is a large part of being a QC Inspector. Tell the hiring manager about a time when you had to do just that. What did you consider before implementing your decision?

"Last year I did have to shut down the production line. The product was not turning out as planned and the quality was not up to our company standards. It was a difficult decision. A lot of money was at stake. I concluded by asking myself if I would be proud of the product? The answer was no, so I shut it down."

"Luckily in my career, I have not had to shut down an entire production line. I have had to re-work components of production; however. I keep a very close eye on quality at every step, and this has prevented many disasters over the years."

Why are you the best candidate for the job?

"My new education and interest in your product make me an excellent match for this position. I am good at what I do, motivated, and I an excellent team player. This is an exciting opportunity for me to hit the ground running. Happy employees are more productive and trust me; I would be thrilled to work here."

The interviewer would like to know why you think you are the strongest candidate for the role. This is a great time to match the qualities that you have with the qualities they have requested in their job posting or internal job description.

"I feel that I am the strongest candidate for the job because I bring everything that you are looking for in your next QC Inspector. In addition to possessing these qualities, I also speak three languages which allow me to work well with many of your temporary foreign workers."

"I feel that I am the right fit for this company because, from what you have described, my personality, skills, and drive are exactly what you are looking for. The challenges that come with this position are all challenges that I welcome. I am confident that this is the right fit for both of us."

As a Quality Control Inspector, what keeps you motivated to always give your best work?

"I am excited to get a start on my career as a QC Inspector, now that I have completed my post-secondary training. I will keep motivated by continually focusing on my goal of growing in my career, and learning new techniques every day."

The interviewer would like to know how you keep yourself motivated to perform well, at all times. What keeps you excited about your job? What drives you to be your best? Talk about your positive triggers and let the hiring manager know how they can best work with you, should you be the successful candidate.

"I am a natural leader and feel that I give my best work when I am responsible for others, or an important project. Feeling like a necessary part of the team is important to me. I want the company I work for to succeed so that I am successful as well."

"I am motivated by knowing that my extensive QC knowledge is helping my company, as well as my team of junior inspectors, alike. It feels good to know that my work is making a difference."

How would your previous manager describe you?

"My previous boss and I had a great working relationship. We were in sync when it came to accomplishing things we needed to do in our department. We scheduled weekly touch base meetings to stay current on our progress and address any issues that came up along the way. I learned a lot from them on leadership while adding great value to the team."

The interviewer would like to know what your previous supervisor would say about you. When you answer this question, you can draw from any feedback from previous performance reviews that you think would be helpful and appropriate. Keep your answer brief and positive.

"My previous manager would often compliment me on my ability to stay organized through the busiest times. I believe he would also say that I am a very cooperative employee, reliable and knowledgeable in quality control processes."

"My former boss would describe me as an employee who goes the extra mile. In my most recent position, I was always available on my email, and have a 24-hour cell phone number just in case of an after-hours emergency. When you call my reference he will be happy to expand on that for you, I am sure."

What do you feel is the most important part of your job as a Quality Control Inspector?

"In my opinion, the most important part of being a QC member is maintaining safe and healthy work environments. By following standards and procedures, and complying with legal regulations, I will deliver a high level of standard to your organization every day. "

The interviewer would like to know that you take your role seriously and feel that you are an essential part of what makes their business successful. The answer that you give the hiring manager will also highlight to them what you think is critical within Quality Control. Talk about what the most passionate part of QC is for you.

"I feel that the most important part of my role in quality control is to ensure that we are meeting the financial targets of the organization while manufacturing the best product out there. It's a delicate balance, but I am very capable of achieving both goals."

"The most important part of being a Quality Control Inspector is the thorough examination of products to ensure that they are not defective and that they meet manufacturer guidelines. I take my work, and my role, seriously."

List 3 key duties in your current role as a Quality Control Inspector.

"During my practicum, the three areas of focus were on approving incoming materials by confirming specifications, conducting visual and measurement tests, and rejecting unacceptable materials.I understand these to be the key responsibilities in this role as well. Is this correct?"

The interviewer would like to understand the fundamental responsibilities in your current role better. Describe briefly the three things that are most important in your current position. Be sure to tie them in with the duties listed in this particular job description.

"My three key duties include ensuring a minimum 8% cost savings year over year, minimizing product waste and streamlining the manufacturing process while still creating an excellent product. Are these the areas of focus for this role?"

"In my current role, my primary focus is on approving finished products, conducting visual and measurement tests, and returning products for re-work. I also have a large focus on inputting data into our quality database."

Give me an example of a time when you performed well in a high pressure situation.

"My entire time in University was a pressure cooker! I worked a part-time job while completing my studies, which added to the pressure. I am well-accustomed to stress and resilient to it."

The interviewer would like to know more about your ability to work well under stress and pressure. Stress can affect anyone, and high-pressure situations are not uncommon as a QC Inspector. Talk to the hiring manager about your ability to successfully perform under high-pressure conditions while still maintaining a positive attitude.

"Last month we had an unexpected safety audit from head office. I was not panicked because safety is something that we regularly practice, but our production staff were nervous. I was able to keep our team calm by showing them that we were doing a great job. My supervisor commented later on how well I managed to keep calm through the situation. We passed the audit with flying colors."

"I handle stress very well, and when you call my references, they will attest to this fact. When I am under pressure on the job, I focus on the task at hand and make sure not to get distracted. We recently had a new program implementation that caused some hiccups in our production. I worked through each step carefully, ensuring that our team understood the changes along the way."

As a Quality Control Inspector, how do you ensure that your time is managed well each day?

"I will ensure that my time is managed well by having a full understanding of my next day's activities. I also use a couple of great organization apps such as Google Calendar and Evernote."

Staying on target with your goals and deadlines is incredibly important as a QC Inspector. Tell the hiring manager how you stay focused in a role where multitasking is required.

"When I arrive to work every morning the first thing I do is review any incident reports from the overnight shift. Once I have completed that, I do a walk through on the floor. I do multitask but not to the point where it is a distraction. I also do not leave until my tasks are done for the day. You will never see me pushing something back for the following day."

"Time management is one of my strongest suits. I stay organized by ensuring that my team understands the requirements of the day and that everyone is well trained. I spend a great deal of my time on the floor and have noticed that if I'm in my office too often, the team can get off track. Tools such as Google Calendar help me a great deal as well."

Why did you choose to become a Quality Control Inspector?

"My father was a Quality Control Inspector, and I have always admired him. For that reason, I chose to pursue the same career path. In addition to this inspiration, I appreciate how this career path utilizes my detail-oriented mindset and strong analytical skills."

The interviewer would like to know what brought you to being a QC Inspector, in the first place Tell the hiring manager about what initially inspired you to pursue this type of career. You can make your answer a bit personal but do be somewhat brief.

"My initial interest in QC started at University. I entered into a calibration technician class and absolutely loved the analytical side of the lessons. Then, I took an auditor course and realized this was the career path for me. I've always been a strong problem solver with great analytical skills so QC is a perfect match for me."

"My University career was spent earning my Bachelor's Degree in Manufacturing Management. Initially, I had a hyper-focus on third party supply chain. It was during my coursework that I discovered a genuine interest in quality assurance. I loved learning more about inspection methods and techniques, non-destructive testing, and quality planning. That interest led me to a career as a Quality Control Inspector."

Give an example of a goal you reached and tell me how you achieved it.

"The greatest goal I set was to graduate University as an honors student while still working full time in a related field. I was top of my class, and working full time. Reaching this goal showed me that I could dedicate myself to my career, and reach the goals that I set for myself. It felt great to accomplish so much and be recognized for my dedication."

The interviewer would like to know if you are the type to set achievable goals for yourself. It's important for the hiring manager to see that you can set personal and career goals and then dedicate yourself to achieving those goals. A career-related goal/achievement is always best.

"This year I set a goal for myself to successfully hire and train three new production workers and ensure an 87% retention rate in our production department. I dedicated myself to training these employees and kept a closer beat in that department. We closed the year at a 94% retention rate, and I was very pleased with this success."

"The greatest goal I set was to earn a quality record in my current company. I hit the goal in my first year and received accolades from the VP, which was an exceptional moment. I took a pay cut to move into the role, so to exceed expectations, be promoted, and in turn be financially ahead of where I was previously, was exhilarating."

Describe a decision you made that wasn't popular and how you handled the negative feedback.

"While completing a group project in school, I was the leader and was given the opportunity to choose the focus of our project. Everyone in the group wanted a simpler topic, but I chose to focus on non-destructive testing. By choosing a path less traveled, I was hoping that the professor would give us a better grade. This is exactly what happened, and he even commented on our choice to focus on a more challenging topic. Everyone was happy in the end."

The interviewer would like to know that you are not always a people pleaser and that you will keep the company's targets first. Uncomfortable situations can arise in the workplace. Show the hiring manager that you are capable of being in potentially awkward situations. Give an example of a time when you forged ahead despite receiving resistance in the workplace.

"This past month I implemented a more in-depth safety program in the facility. This new implementation meant that every employee needed to re-certify in WHMIS. Many were not pleased, but I insisted that it would benefit the company and their personal safety. Since implementing the program, we have seen a decrease in accidents by 6%. I will not bend on a decision if it means helping the people I work with."

"Because I have been a QC lead for many years, I am accustomed to making unpopular decisions from time to time. Recently I cut back on my team and reduced overtime hours. Sometimes we have to make decisions that are for the best of the company. Cutbacks happen and, as much as I try to avoid them, they can make my decisions unpopular at times."

List the steps that you would take before implementing an important change on the job.

"Implementing change is a big deal, and you first need to ensure that your team is buying into the changes. Next, I would ensure that the entire team is on board with the change and that our internal software programs supported the change."

The interviewer would like to know that you can make calculated and analytical decisions. Being able to make an educated analysis before taking action is an essential skill to have. Tell the hiring manager about the methods you choose before implementing change.

"Before I implement change on the job, I will do a full risk vs. reward analysis. I would then consult my superiors and look for similar case studies from other facilities. Then, I would put out a facility-wide memo, outlining the pending changes just to prepare my staff. Finally, I will then bring in the necessary experts to train my staff on the changes, if required."

"Before implementing any change in the workplace, I first need to ensure that my superiors are on board with supporting the change. I check the software systems to ensure they can support the changes and then call the staff for a team-wide meeting to ensure everyone is on the same page."

Have you ever implemented a new Quality Control Policy to a team or group? How did it go?

"I have not yet implemented any QC policies; however, I hope that I can have the opportunity to do this as I grow and develop in my career. Could you tell me about the most recent QC policy you have implemented here?"

The interviewer would like to know if you have experience in change management. Implementing workplace change can be a delicate balance. Tell the hiring manager about your ability to assist your staff in accepting changes in the workplace.

"I have implemented many changes in policy since joining my current company. One recent change was a major update to our ISO program. It took some getting used to for the staff, but I feel that if you provide the proper amount of training and great resources for them to draw on, it will be a smooth transition."

"In my twelve-year career as a Quality Control Inspector, I have implemented many changes in the workplace. Primarily, these are changes associated with ISO programs, health and safety, and specification policies. Are there any immediate policy changes you are looking to implement once you make this hiring decision?"

Briefly tell me about your career as a Quality Control Inspector. Highlight some of your career wins and prouder accomplishments.

"I am a recent graduate from XYZ University and completed my practicum with Company ABC just last month. I mentored under the QC Manager there for three months and learned a great deal on CAD/CAM. I look forward to gaining more career wins with your organization."

This is your opportunity to bring your resume to life for the hiring manager. It is usually easiest to start from the beginning of your career, working to your most recent experience. Be sure to include your reasons for leaving previous jobs, if applicable. Give a solid overview but avoid lingering on this question for more than a couple of minutes. You don't want to ramble!

"I began my career with Company X right after graduating from University. In that role, my biggest accomplishment was being promoted after just two months time. I left there after five years when Company Z offered me a bigger opportunity. I've been there ever since. My proudest accomplishments in this role include increasing our employee retention rate by 24% and decreasing accidents by 12% overall."

"I have been a Quality Control Inspector for the past nine years. I started with Company ABC where I worked my way into a team lead position. In my current position, where I have been for ten years, I manage a team of eight junior technicians. I look forward to gaining further leadership experience in this role."

Do you see yourself growing your career with our organization for the long term? Why or why not?

"I do see myself growing my career here. I would like to be supervising or managing a team of my own in the next few years. I feel like I could progress here at a rate that will make this a possibility."

The interviewer would like to know if you plan on staying with their company long term. If you have a history of jumping from job to job, this is a fundamental question to master. Show the hiring manager that you are capable of committing long-term and tell them why you feel their company will be 'the one' for years to come.

"I can see myself growing with your organization for the long term. After learning more about your business, I see a solid fit. I am looking for the opportunity to grow with a company where I can promote my skills and offers me further training as well. Knowing your organization offers this, makes it an incredibly attractive opportunity."

"I would love to see myself growing into a more prominent leadership role within your organization. My career interests align very nicely with your company's goals which helps me to see a great long-term fit here."

What are your career goals as a Quality Control Inspector?

"As a recent graduate of my QC program, I first would like to earn a role with a growing organization who welcomes the opportunity to mentor new Quality Control Inspectors. My long-term focus is on growing my career with this organization, and earning my way into a leadership position over the next five years."

The interviewer would like to know what your long-term goals are. This is where it is essential to have completed some research on the interviewing company. Be sure to envision where you can see yourself fitting, and growing, with the organization before your interview. Do some research on what a career path could look like with this particular company. You tie in your short-term goals as well, which will show added insight.

"My short-term career goal is to complete additional training in project management. I'd also love to obtain my PMP in the future. As a QC Inspector, I would like to see my leadership responsibilities increase as well."

"My primary goal in my Quality Control career is to become an expert in CAD and CAM. I take additional coursework on these topics regularly and do spend some time teaching newer inspectors on the programs."

What is the most challenging task you have faced as a Quality Control Inspector?

"I feel the most challenging tasks I will face, at first, will be gaining the trust of my team because I am new to my career. I want to quickly establish that I am knowledgeable in the area of QC and have something to teach, despite being green in the industry."

The interviewer would like to know about your ability to keep working even when the challenges seem insurmountable. Being able to trudge through the tough and challenging times is an essential skill to highlight. Tell the hiring manager that you are able to succeed and push through.

"The most challenging task that I have faced as a QC Inspector was the recent implementation of our new facility-wide safety program. It was very detailed and required a lot of training hours and re-certifications. Also, there was a great deal of resistance from many of the employees. In the end, it was a very successful endeavor and I'm pleased with how it turned out."

"The most challenging factor I face as a QC Inspector is hiring the right people, and keeping them, while working in such a diverse and high-stress environment. One way that I manage this is by getting to know my team on a more personal level, offering continued training, and giving kudos where they are deserved, on a regular basis."

What is the most rewarding part of being a Quality Control Inspector?

"I believe the most rewarding part of being a Quality Control Inspector will be playing my part in helping my company to be profitable through accomplishing high standards of quality."

The interviewer would like to know what you enjoy most about your role as a QC Inspector. Often, the part of the job that you love most is what you are also best at. The hiring manager is looking for further insight into what you like most and are best at. Tell the interviewer what you love most about your career.

"For me, the most rewarding part of being a QC Inspector is that I can help a company create an unbeatable product. It's always an exciting challenge to be the best in your industry, and that is what drives me."

"To me, as a Quality Control Inspector, the most rewarding days are the days when everyone has worked safely as a team to deliver the common goal."

What do you like least about being a Quality Control Inspector?

"I am new to my career as a QC Inspector, so I have not yet discovered my favorite or least favorite tasks. While attending University, I did find the most challenging part of my coursework to be CAD (computer-aided design). We touched on our CAD skills to some degree; however, I did not feel strong enough in this area post-grad. For this reason, I have enrolled in a two week CAD course which starts next week. "

The interviewer would like to know what aspects of your job you do not enjoy doing. Tell the hiring manager what part of your job you don't enjoy but be sure to avoid turning it into a negative conversation. You should always end this on a positive note. Your answer can reveal your weaknesses to the interviewer.

"The part of being a QC Inspector that I enjoy the least is probably the mass amounts of paperwork that I need to complete on a daily basis. I do understand that it needs to be done, however; I very much enjoy being face to face with my team. It feels like I make a bigger impact that way."

"Documentation has never been my favorite focus, primarily because I am not the fastest typer and I prefer verbal communication. This includes logs, the summary of my day's work, and sending emails. For that reason, I am taking an online typing course which will help me to feel less overwhelmed when it comes to these written related tasks."

What do you think are the most important qualities for a Quality Control Inspector to possess?

"In my opinion, I believe that a successful Quality Control Inspector will be very analytically minded, be able to work with a diverse range of personalities and is resistant to stress. I look forward to showing you how I possess these specific qualities."

The interviewer would like to know that you fully understand the value that a QC professional should bring to the workplace. Chances are, your answer will also reflect what you feel are your greatest strengths. This question allows the hiring manager to get to know you a bit better while learning about the qualities you value.

"I feel that the most important qualities for a QC Inspector to possess are strong analytical skills, great verbal and written communication abilities, and the ability to remain diplomatic in the face of change. These are all skills that I have practiced and mastered over the years."

"Over my eight years as a QC Inspector, I have found that the most helpful, and important, qualities to possess are technical capabilities, a strong analytical approach, and physical stamina. These top qualities have helped me to become a very successful Quality Control professional."

Quality Control Inspector Interview Questions

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1. Do you see yourself a leader? When have you led a team?
2. Would you be willing to work over 40 hours a week?
3. What are your salary expectations?
4. List the Quality Control software and programs you are well versed in. What is your level of expertise in each?
5. Tell me about a time when you have had to make a big decision, such as shutting down a production line. How did you come to the conclusion and how did you proceed?
6. Why are you the best candidate for the job?
7. As a Quality Control Inspector, what keeps you motivated to always give your best work?
8. How would your previous manager describe you?
9. What do you feel is the most important part of your job as a Quality Control Inspector?
10. List 3 key duties in your current role as a Quality Control Inspector.
11. Give me an example of a time when you performed well in a high pressure situation.
12. As a Quality Control Inspector, how do you ensure that your time is managed well each day?
13. Why did you choose to become a Quality Control Inspector?
14. Give an example of a goal you reached and tell me how you achieved it.
15. Describe a decision you made that wasn't popular and how you handled the negative feedback.
16. List the steps that you would take before implementing an important change on the job.
17. Have you ever implemented a new Quality Control Policy to a team or group? How did it go?
18. Briefly tell me about your career as a Quality Control Inspector. Highlight some of your career wins and prouder accomplishments.
19. Do you see yourself growing your career with our organization for the long term? Why or why not?
20. What are your career goals as a Quality Control Inspector?
21. What is the most challenging task you have faced as a Quality Control Inspector?
22. What is the most rewarding part of being a Quality Control Inspector?
23. What do you like least about being a Quality Control Inspector?
24. What do you think are the most important qualities for a Quality Control Inspector to possess?

Quality Control Inspector Interview Questions

1. Do you see yourself a leader? When have you led a team?

2. Would you be willing to work over 40 hours a week?

3. What are your salary expectations?

4. List the Quality Control software and programs you are well versed in. What is your level of expertise in each?

5. Tell me about a time when you have had to make a big decision, such as shutting down a production line. How did you come to the conclusion and how did you proceed?

6. Why are you the best candidate for the job?

7. As a Quality Control Inspector, what keeps you motivated to always give your best work?

8. How would your previous manager describe you?

9. What do you feel is the most important part of your job as a Quality Control Inspector?

10. List 3 key duties in your current role as a Quality Control Inspector.

11. Give me an example of a time when you performed well in a high pressure situation.

12. As a Quality Control Inspector, how do you ensure that your time is managed well each day?

13. Why did you choose to become a Quality Control Inspector?

14. Give an example of a goal you reached and tell me how you achieved it.

15. Describe a decision you made that wasn't popular and how you handled the negative feedback.

16. List the steps that you would take before implementing an important change on the job.

17. Have you ever implemented a new Quality Control Policy to a team or group? How did it go?

18. Briefly tell me about your career as a Quality Control Inspector. Highlight some of your career wins and prouder accomplishments.

19. Do you see yourself growing your career with our organization for the long term? Why or why not?

20. What are your career goals as a Quality Control Inspector?

21. What is the most challenging task you have faced as a Quality Control Inspector?

22. What is the most rewarding part of being a Quality Control Inspector?

23. What do you like least about being a Quality Control Inspector?

24. What do you think are the most important qualities for a Quality Control Inspector to possess?