What are the responsibilities and job description for the Quality Control Inspector position at STA, Inc?
We are seeking a detail-oriented Quality Control Inspector to support the Quality Control Manager in maintaining site quality across commercial landscape, snow removal, and government contract services throughout the DC Metro region. This is a hands-on, field-based role for someone who takes pride in spotting what others miss — from plant health to workmanship on every site.
What You'll Do
- Conduct routine and scheduled inspections of grounds maintenance activities, including recurring maintenance, enhancement projects, snow removal, and pest control/herbicide application
- Inspect installed plant material against planting plans, flagging incorrect species, poor placement, or plant health issues
- Document inspection findings with photos and written notes, following QC program protocols
- Report deficiencies to the Quality Control Manager and follow up to confirm corrective action was completed
- Assist the Quality Control Manager in maintaining QC records in support of ISO9001 and contract-specific requirements
- Travel to regional sites on a scheduled and as-needed basis to perform inspections
- Support training of in-house and contract personnel on proper landscape and snow removal techniques as directed by the QCM
- Communicate inspection results clearly to site crews and subcontractors
- Assist with subcontractor site visits as assigned
- Ensure compliance with corporate, site, and safety policies and procedures during all site visits
What You Bring
Experience & Education
- 3 years of landscape maintenance, horticulture, or quality control experience
- Experience with commercial snow removal a plus
- High school diploma required; horticulture or landscape-related coursework a plus
- Experience with government contract sites a plus
Technical Knowledge
- Demonstratable knowledge of plant identification — annuals, perennials, and woody ornamentals
- Basic understanding of turf care and common plant health issues (disease, pests, irrigation stress) for transition zone climates
- Familiarity with landscape design plans and planting schemes sufficient to compare installed work against them
- Comfortable using a smartphone/tablet for photo documentation and inspection reporting
- Ability to lift in excess of 80 lbs
Professional Skills
- Basic proficiency in Microsoft 365 suite (Word, Excel, Outlook)
- Must speak, read, and write English fluently
- Basic industry Spanish a plus
- Strong attention to detail and objective, consistent reporting
- Comfortable working independently in the field with minimal supervision
- Valid driver's license required
- Ability to pass a background screening and gain access to federal installations
Preferred / A Plus
- Certified fertilizer/pesticide applicator (or willingness to obtain)
- Prior experience in a QC or inspection-focused role
Why Join Us
This is a great opportunity for someone early-to-mid career in the grounds industry to build QC and horticultural expertise on a large, well-established book of business, with a clear growth path toward Quality Control Manager.
We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or veteran status.
Pay: $70,000.00 - $75,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person
Salary : $70,000 - $75,000