How much does a Quality Manager make?
A Quality Manager plays a key role in ensuring that products meet certain standards. This role involves overseeing all aspects of a company's quality assurance process. On average, a Quality Manager earns about $106,200 per year. This number can vary based on experience, location, and industry.
The salary of a Quality Manager can change quite a bit. Some managers earn around $50,000 at the lower end. Others can make more than $182,500 at the higher end. Companies in certain industries, like pharmaceuticals or aerospace, often pay more. Location also matters. Urban areas and regions with a high cost of living tend to offer higher salaries. Factors like company size and years of experience also impact how much a Quality Manager can earn.
What are the highest paying cities for a Quality Manager?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $135,758
In San Francisco, a hub for tech innovation, one leads quality assurance for top tech firms. Companies like Google and Salesforce depend on professionals who ensure their products meet high standards. The fast-paced environment fosters continuous learning and growth.
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Fargo, ND
Average Salary: $135,372
In Fargo, a central location for agribusiness, a quality expert ensures the safety and quality of food products. Working with companies like General Mills, one plays a crucial role in maintaining standards. The community-focused atmosphere offers a supportive environment for career development.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $133,660
In San Diego, where the defense and biotech sectors thrive, a quality manager supports major firms like Northrop Grumman. One ensures that all products meet strict military and medical standards. The city's pleasant climate and beach lifestyle offer a perfect work-life balance.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $130,817
San Jose, the heart of Silicon Valley, sees quality experts working in tech companies like Apple and Intel. These roles focus on maintaining the high standards of consumer electronics. The vibrant tech culture offers many opportunities for professional growth and networking.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $127,138
In Los Angeles, a center for entertainment and media, quality managers work for studios like Disney and Warner Bros. They ensure that film and TV productions meet quality standards. The city's diverse culture and opportunities make it an exciting place to work.
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Stamford, CT
Average Salary: $127,075
In Stamford, a hub for finance and insurance, quality managers work for companies like insurance giants like The Hartford. They ensure that financial products meet regulatory standards. The professional environment offers stability and opportunities for advancement.
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Pueblo, CO
Average Salary: $123,125
Pueblo, known for its manufacturing and aerospace industries, employs quality managers for companies like Raytheon. These professionals ensure that aerospace components meet strict standards. The city's lower cost of living provides a comfortable lifestyle.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $122,186
In Boston, a city rich in history and education, quality managers work for companies like Boston Scientific. They ensure medical devices meet safety and quality standards. The vibrant academic environment offers many professional development opportunities.
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Spokane, WA
Average Salary: $121,927
In Spokane, a center for healthcare and technology, quality managers work for firms like Spokane's Inland Northwest Health Services. They ensure that healthcare services meet high standards. The scenic beauty and outdoor activities make Spokane a desirable place to live and work.
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Indianapolis, IN
Average Salary: $119,310
In Indianapolis, a hub for automotive and healthcare, quality managers work for companies like Eli Lilly. They ensure that pharmaceuticals meet strict quality standards. The city offers a balanced lifestyle with access to both urban amenities and outdoor attractions.
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What are the best companies a Quality Manager can work for?

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HNTB Corporation
Average Salary: $206,086
HNTB Corporation offers Quality Manager positions with a strong emphasis on civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering. They operate in locations like San Francisco, Los Angeles, and New York City. Their work focuses on infrastructure, ensuring high-quality project delivery.
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Apple
Average Salary: $205,676
Apple provides Quality Manager roles with opportunities to enhance product quality across various tech devices. They have major offices in Cupertino, California, and other key locations like Austin, Texas. Here, Quality Managers work to maintain Apple's high standards of innovation and quality.
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Parsons
Average Salary: $174,441
Parsons hires Quality Managers who focus on improving quality and efficiency in engineering and infrastructure projects. With offices in Washington, D.C., and other parts of the U.S., Parsons offers diverse roles that emphasize quality assurance.
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Collins Aerospace
Average Salary: $171,727
Collins Aerospace looks for Quality Managers to oversee quality control in aerospace manufacturing. They have offices in Charlotte, North Carolina, and other key locations. Here, Quality Managers ensure products meet rigorous aerospace standards.
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Pratt & Whitney
Average Salary: $168,778
Pratt & Whitney offers Quality Manager positions focused on aerospace engine manufacturing. With locations in East Hartford, Connecticut, and Indianapolis, Indiana, they emphasize quality in high-performance aviation products.
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BAE Systems USA
Average Salary: $168,678
BAE Systems USA hires Quality Managers to enhance the quality of defense and security systems. Operating in cities like Arlington, Virginia, and other strategic locations, they work on ensuring top-notch quality in critical systems.
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Abbott
Average Salary: $168,490
Abbott provides Quality Manager roles dedicated to medical device manufacturing. With locations in Abbott Park, Illinois, and other key sites, Quality Managers ensure all medical products meet safety and quality standards.
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Northrop Grumman
Average Salary: $157,964
Northrop Grumman offers Quality Manager positions focusing on defense and aerospace. They have offices in Falls Church, Virginia, and other key areas. Here, Quality Managers ensure high-quality standards in defense technologies.
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Boston Scientific
Average Salary: $155,721
Boston Scientific hires Quality Managers to oversee the quality of medical devices. With headquarters in Marlborough, Massachusetts, and other important locations, they ensure all medical products meet strict quality guidelines.
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Parametrix, Inc.
Average Salary: $150,000
Parametrix, Inc. offers Quality Manager positions in the aerospace sector. They operate in locations like San Diego, California. Here, Quality Managers work to maintain high quality in aerospace products and systems.
How to earn more as a Quality Manager?
If someone wants to earn more as a Quality Manager, they need to focus on certain key areas. Gaining more experience and skills can help increase their salary. They should look for training and certifications that add value to their role. Networking with other professionals can also open doors to higher-paying opportunities. Working in a company that pays well for quality management roles is another factor. Lastly, taking on leadership roles or projects that show they can drive quality improvements can lead to a raise.
Here are some ways a Quality Manager can increase their earnings:
- Certifications: Gain certifications like ASQ's CQM or CQA. These show expertise.
- Networking: Join industry groups and attend events. This can lead to new job opportunities.
- Experience: Work in the field for several years. Experience often leads to higher pay.
- Leadership: Take charge of quality improvement projects. Show your ability to lead.
- Company: Seek jobs at companies known for paying well for quality roles.



