How much does a Quality Manager make?
A Quality Manager plays a key role in ensuring that products meet high standards. This job is important in many industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, and food services. The average yearly salary for a Quality Manager is around $103,725. This salary can change based on experience, location, and the specific industry.
Quality Managers with more experience often earn higher salaries. For example, those in the top 10% of earners can make over $177,500 a year. The salary also varies by location. Major cities and areas with a high cost of living usually offer higher pay. Industries like aerospace and pharmaceuticals tend to pay more than others. This makes the role of a Quality Manager both rewarding and competitive.
What are the highest paying cities for a Quality Manager?

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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $132,522
In San Diego, professionals in quality assurance play a key role in the tech and biotech sectors. Companies like Qualcomm and Illumina rely on quality managers to ensure top-notch product standards. The city's vibrant economy offers many opportunities for growth.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $132,244
San Francisco's tech industry thrives on innovation, and quality managers are essential. Giants like Salesforce and Slack depend on these experts to maintain high standards. The city's dynamic environment provides a wealth of professional development.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $131,325
San Jose, the heart of Silicon Valley, is home to many tech companies. Quality managers here work closely with firms like Intel and Cisco. The city's focus on technology creates a competitive yet rewarding job market.
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Stamford, CT
Average Salary: $125,700
In Stamford, quality managers support a diverse range of industries. Companies like United Technologies and Charter Communications need these professionals to ensure product excellence. The city offers a balanced lifestyle with plenty of career opportunities.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $124,047
Los Angeles offers a bustling job market for quality managers. Entertainment and aerospace companies like Boeing and Disney depend on these experts. The city's diverse economy provides many paths for career advancement.
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Pueblo, CO
Average Salary: $123,125
Pueblo is known for its manufacturing sector, making it a prime location for quality managers. Companies such as Raytheon and CenturyLink rely on these professionals. The city offers a stable job market with a strong community focus.
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Spokane, WA
Average Salary: $122,898
Spokane's growing tech scene offers opportunities for quality managers. Companies like Itron and SPS Technologies need these experts. The city's friendly atmosphere and outdoor activities make it a great place to work and live.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $120,586
Boston's rich history in education and healthcare creates a strong demand for quality managers. Companies like Biogen and General Electric depend on these professionals. The city's vibrant culture and job opportunities make it an attractive place to work.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $120,174
Seattle's tech industry, led by companies like Amazon and Microsoft, needs quality managers. These professionals ensure high standards in product development. The city offers a dynamic job market and a high quality of life.
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Indianapolis, IN
Average Salary: $119,265
In Indianapolis, quality managers support a mix of manufacturing and healthcare companies. Firms like Eli Lilly and Allison Transmission rely on these experts. The city's growing economy offers many opportunities for career growth.
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What are the best companies a Quality Manager can work for?

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HNTB Corporation
Average Salary: $201,041
HNTB Corporation offers exciting Quality Manager roles with a focus on infrastructure projects. They operate across the United States, with major offices in Los Angeles, New York, and Chicago.
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Apple
Average Salary: $194,644
Apple provides a dynamic environment for Quality Managers. They work on cutting-edge technology products. Apple has offices in Cupertino, California, and other locations worldwide.
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Parsons
Average Salary: $172,916
Parsons offers rewarding Quality Manager positions in the defense and infrastructure sectors. They have offices in Washington, D.C., and other key locations.
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Raytheon
Average Salary: $171,000
Raytheon provides opportunities for Quality Managers in aerospace and defense. They operate in multiple locations, including Waltham, Massachusetts, and Tucson, Arizona.
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Abbott
Average Salary: $167,892
Abbott offers Quality Manager roles focused on healthcare products. They have a global presence, with significant operations in Abbott Park, Illinois, and other international sites.
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Pratt & Whitney
Average Salary: $166,154
Pratt & Whitney provides Quality Manager positions in the aerospace industry. They operate in East Hartford, Connecticut, and other locations.
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BAE Systems USA
Average Salary: $162,508
BAE Systems USA offers Quality Manager roles with a focus on defense and security. They have offices in Arlington, Virginia, and other key locations.
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Boston Scientific
Average Salary: $158,114
Boston Scientific provides Quality Manager positions in the medical device industry. They operate in Marlborough, Massachusetts, and other locations.
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Northrop Grumman
Average Salary: $150,926
Northrop Grumman offers Quality Manager roles in the aerospace and defense sectors. They have offices in Falls Church, Virginia, and other key locations.
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Parametrix, Inc.
Average Salary: $150,000
Parametrix, Inc. provides Quality Manager positions with a focus on engineering and consulting services. They operate in multiple locations, including Houston, Texas.
How to earn more as a Quality Manager?
A Quality Manager plays a crucial role in ensuring that products meet the highest standards. This role is vital, and with the right strategies, it can also lead to higher earnings. One key way to increase earnings is by gaining more experience and expertise in the field. This can involve taking on more challenging projects or seeking out advanced certifications.
Another factor is specializing in high-demand industries. Industries such as pharmaceuticals, aerospace, and automotive often require stringent quality controls, which can command higher salaries. Networking with other professionals in these industries can also open up more job opportunities. Additionally, moving to regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for quality managers can also lead to higher pay. Continuous learning and staying updated with the latest quality management practices can further enhance earning potential. Finally, taking on leadership roles or moving into executive positions can significantly increase earnings.
Here are some key factors to consider for increasing earnings as a Quality Manager:
- Gain more experience and expertise.
- Specialize in high-demand industries.
- Network with industry professionals.
- Move to regions with higher demand.
- Take on leadership roles.



