Basics of the Job
First, you should understand the basic requirements when you are doing quality control work. There are many areas, in which you can assist in quality control. Two of the best examples are described below:
The first is of an agricultural or food science technician. As the name suggests, your job would be to work with the food supply to make important improvements that will boost the crop yield, as well as maintain the safety and quality of the food. They often help food scientists who develop new methods for growing and raising food, and new ways to protect crops. They also ensure that the food provided meets the standards established by the FDA and that all the processes used with the food is in a sterile environment.
A second option is to work as a chemist in a manufacturing plant. The chemist ensures that the desirable quality is maintained. Part of their job is also to monitor the automated processes to make sure they are producing the correct results. Additionally, they collect samples from the ongoing process for testing to ensure that all the regulations are followed including those set by the industry and by the government.
Requirements for Quality Control Jobs
If you are interested in a job as a food technician, you may not need as much training as you might think. Majority of the two-year programs will provide you with the background that you would need to be successful in this field. What you want to look for in an education program to prepare yourself for an agricultural or food technician job is that, the basic scientific principles are properly taught.
Now if you are interested in increasing your chances of being hired in this field, you should consider completing a bachelor’s degree program and possibly doing an internship in a related field. The more hands-on experience you have the better are your chances of being successful. Some employers will also provide a wide-range of hands-on training.
Now, if you are going to pursue a position as a chemist working in quality control in a manufacturing facility then you will want a bachelor’s degree in chemistry with a background in analytical chemistry. If you have a master’s or doctorate degree, you could end up with an even better chance of landing a position.
Getting the Job
The good news about both types of jobs that use science discussed above is that they are expected to grow by decent amounts through 2016. Technician positions are actually expected to grow at a faster rate – 12% compared to 9% for chemists. Both are expected to be very competitive.
Use your local classified job listings if you are determined to stay in your area. However, if you are going to be open to the idea of moving to a new location you should consider a better alternative, such as using an online site dedicated to science jobs or quality assurance jobs or even jobs in manufacturing facilities.
The best way to use a website for your job search activities is to enter in your criteria for a good matching job. Even if nothing is currently available that interests you, this is a good idea because you will be notified automatically when desirable positions do appear on the site. That means you will be able to apply for them quickly.
In terms of applying, make sure you have a strong resume formatted appropriately for the email submission. Saving the document as a PDF is a good idea because all of your formatting will be preserved. On that resume, be sure to emphasize any hands-on experience you have had either as part of your education or as part of an internship or past job.
Once you begin submitting your resume you will be one step closer to finding the position you desire.