The word quality control might have been used in the advertisement of many laboratory-based roles in different industries with a focus on different types of manufacturing products.
If you have been confused about the term quality control, this article would enlighten you on the career prospects, requirements and skills required for the designated role.
Who is a Quality Control Analyst?
Quality control analysts are professionals employed by manufacturing industries either on a small scale or large scale to monitor the safety and compliance level used in manufacturing company products.
There are many critical control points that need to be evaluated through different experimentations and procedures outlined for quality control analysts to use in their routine analysis. Therefore most companies hire more than one quality analyst to oversee and monitor different parts of the production process.
The nature of one’s job as a quality control analyst might require you to work shifts during weekends and on public holidays because production is usually round the clock. Although your work might be in a routine fashion depending on where you work, there might be rotations of staff across different sections in the quality control unit to prevent staffs not being motivated at work.
Read Also; Career Opportunities For Food Technology Graduates In South Africa
What Skill Do I Need To Have As a Quality Analyst?
If you have decided to pursue a career as a quality control analyst, I would suggest you pay attention to the following skillset which is useful in your career advancement. They include;
- Interpersonal skills
- Good oral and written communication skills
- Numeracy and analytical ability
- Teamwork
- Organisational ability
- IT skills
- Time management
- Data analysis
- Knowledge of relevant principles and applications
- Decision making and problem-solving skills
How Do I Become A Quality Control Analyst
First of all, you should have a science background with a good knowledge of chemistry, biology, physics, agriculture e.t.c. You would also be required to have a good national senior certificate (NSC) result and pass university entrance examinations.
If you are looking to start your career as a quality control analyst, then you can apply to study the following relevant courses in the university. They include:
- Biochemistry
- Chemistry
- Biology
- Food Science and technology
- Microbiology
- Chemical engineering
- Food engineering
With a degree in related courses, you are eligible to obtain a masters degree or relevant certifications related to quality control or manufacturing process.
Where Can I Work As A Quality Control Analyst?
Some of the areas you can work in as a quality control analyst include but are not limited to the places specified below :
- Agricultural Institutions
- Hospitals
- Manufacturing industries
- Fitness Industries
- Hospitality Industries
- Food-based Research Laboratories
- Research Institutions
- Pharmaceutical Industries
- Chemical manufacturing companies
- Water/utility company.
Starting out as a quality control analyst, It is better you study the recommended courses at any of the approved institutions of learning within South Africa.
Another way to remain self-relevant is by applying for internship positions in companies where you would like to work in for a practical and relevant professional experience. Having the necessary skills, performing well at the interview and a great attitude to work can be an added advantage for you as a candidate during the selection process.
