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Quality Inspector

Harsco Rail
Columbia, SC Full Time
POSTED ON 10/15/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 11/13/2026
Company Description

Harsco is recognized for technical leadership and worldwide experience in virtually all major aspects of railway track maintenance. We enable railroads to operate at peak efficiency over smooth, precisely aligned track that increases railway safety while reducing fuel consumption and other key operating costs. Our broad array of equipment and services support every type of railway operator, from major national and international railway systems, to short lines and high-speed urban transit networks.

Job Description

Key Duties and Responsibilities

  • Read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, and specifications. 
  • Inspect, test, and measure materials and products using calipers, micrometers, gauges, templates, and electronic inspection equipment. 
  • Conduct visual inspections for defects, cosmetic issues, and workmanship problems. 
  • Monitor production operations to ensure they meet quality standards. 
  • Recommend adjustments to production processes when deviations are found. 
  • Document inspection results, complete reports, and issue certificates of conformance. 
  • Segregate and tag nonconforming materials and assist with nonconformance investigations. 
  • Process nonconforming material and assist in the disposition process
  • Perform receiving, in‑process, and final inspections. 
  • Inspect customer returns and complete RMA documentation. 

Qualifications

Required Skills and Qualifications

  • High attention to detail and strong problem‑solving skills. 
  • Ability to read blueprints and understand GD&T. 
  • Knowledge of precision measuring tools and inspection methods. 
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills. 
  • Basic math skills, including working with fractions. 
  • Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks. 

Education and Training

  • High school diploma or equivalent (typical requirement). 
  • Blueprint reading coursework preferred. 
  • Associate or bachelor’s degree beneficial but not required. 
  • Certifications such as ASQ Certified Quality Inspector (CQI) or Certified Quality Technician (CQT) preferred. 

Additional Information

Note: Responsibilities listed represent the overall scope of the position. Complexity, autonomy, and leadership expectations increase as employees progress.

We provide equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status or genetics. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

If you have difficulty applying for any job posted on Harsco Rail’s website because a disability prevents you from using the online system, Harsco Rail offers the following alternate application procedure: Contact Matthew Fink, Director NOAM, at 1.803.822.7589, and Harsco Rail will arrange for an alternate method of applying and will consider your application together with all other applications received for the job. Please call only for disability applications. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Salary.com Estimation for Quality Inspector in Columbia, SC
$43,909 to $55,422
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