Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers Salary 2025: $48,570 Median
The median annual salary for inspectors, testers, sorters, samplers, and weighers hit $48,570 in 2024, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That works out to roughly $23 per hour. The middle 50% earn between $35,510 and $77,860, with the top 10% pulling in over $77,860. About 597,370 people work in this occupation nationwide, touching virtually every manufacturing sector.
How much Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers earn
The median annual wage is $48,570, with a mean wage of $53,450. The bottom 10% earn under $35,510, while the top 10% make above $77,860. Pay varies by industry: workers in aerospace product and parts manufacturing average over $70,000, while those in food manufacturing tend to earn less. Overtime is common in production settings.
- Median: $48,570
- 10th percentile: $35,510
- 90th percentile: $77,860
- Mean hourly wage: $23
Pay by state
Location matters more than most other factors. The highest-paying state is Alaska, with a mean annual wage of $78,150. Washington ($64,420), Maryland ($61,790), Hawaii ($59,740), and the District of Columbia ($59,730) round out the top five. At the low end, Alabama ($40,010), Mississippi ($40,670), and Michigan ($44,490) offer the lowest average pay. Relocating to a high-paying state can boost income by $30,000 or more.
How to become Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weigher
Most workers enter the occupation with a high school diploma. On-the-job training lasting a few months to a year is standard. Some employers prefer candidates with an associate degree in quality assurance or a related field, especially for complex testing roles. Certifications such as the ASQ Certified Quality Inspector can improve job prospects. Strong attention to detail, manual dexterity, and basic math skills are essential.
- High school diploma typically required
- On-the-job training (months to a year)
- Associate degree helpful for complex roles
- Voluntary certifications (e.g., ASQ CQI) boost chances
Job outlook
Employment is projected to show little or no change from 2024 to 2034 (0% growth), which is slower than the average for all occupations. Despite flat growth, about 69,900 openings are expected each year, primarily to replace workers who retire or leave the field. Automation may reduce demand in some sectors, but human judgment remains critical in many inspection tasks.
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary of a Inspector, Tester, Sorter, Sampler, and Weigher?
The national median salary is $48,570 per year, with typical earnings ranging from $35,510 at the 10th percentile to $77,860 at the 90th percentile.
How do I become an Inspector, Tester, Sorter, Sampler, and Weigher?
You typically need a high school diploma and receive on-the-job training. An associate degree or certification in quality control can improve your chances.
Is there demand for Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers?
Employment is projected to have no change from 2024 to 2034, but around 69,900 job openings per year are expected due to the need to replace workers who exit the field.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers data.