A Quality Assurance (QA) Coordinator plays an essential role in maintaining the quality of products, services, and processes within a company. They ensure compliance with industry standards, regulations, and company policies. As demand for quality assurance professionals continues to grow, many people are curious about the salary of a QA Coordinator and what factors influence their earnings.
This topic provides a detailed breakdown of the average salary of a Quality Assurance Coordinator, including factors that affect pay, salary variations by industry and location, and career growth opportunities.
What Does a Quality Assurance Coordinator Do?
A QA Coordinator is responsible for implementing and monitoring quality control procedures. Their key responsibilities include:
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Developing and enforcing quality assurance policies.
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Ensuring compliance with regulatory and safety standards.
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Investigating quality issues and defects.
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Conducting internal audits and inspections.
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Training employees on quality standards and best practices.
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Collaborating with other departments to improve quality processes.
Average Salary of a Quality Assurance Coordinator
1. National Average Salary
The salary of a QA Coordinator depends on factors such as experience, industry, location, and company size. In the United States, the typical salary ranges are:
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Entry-Level (0-2 years of experience): $45,000 – $55,000 per year ($22 – $26 per hour).
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Mid-Level (3-5 years of experience): $55,000 – $70,000 per year ($26 – $34 per hour).
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Senior-Level (5+ years of experience): $70,000 – $90,000 per year ($34 – $43 per hour).
2. Salary by Industry
QA Coordinators work in various industries, and salaries can vary significantly.
Highest-Paying Industries for QA Coordinators
| Industry | Annual Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Pharmaceuticals | $60,000 – $90,000 |
| Biotechnology | $58,000 – $85,000 |
| Aerospace & Defense | $55,000 – $82,000 |
| Software Development | $52,000 – $78,000 |
| Manufacturing | $48,000 – $72,000 |
| Healthcare | $50,000 – $75,000 |
Industries like pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and aerospace tend to offer higher salaries due to the complexity of regulatory requirements and quality control processes.
3. Salary by Location
Salaries for QA Coordinators vary across different states and cities.
Highest-Paying States for QA Coordinators
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California: $65,000 – $90,000 per year.
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Massachusetts: $62,000 – $88,000 per year.
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Washington: $60,000 – $85,000 per year.
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New York: $63,000 – $87,000 per year.
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Illinois: $58,000 – $80,000 per year.
Lowest-Paying States for QA Coordinators
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Mississippi: $45,000 – $60,000 per year.
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West Virginia: $47,000 – $62,000 per year.
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Arkansas: $46,000 – $61,000 per year.
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Kentucky: $48,000 – $63,000 per year.
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South Dakota: $47,000 – $64,000 per year.
Metropolitan areas such as San Francisco, Boston, and Seattle generally offer higher salaries due to the high cost of living and demand for skilled professionals.
Factors Affecting a QA Coordinator’s Salary
1. Experience Level
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Entry-level QA Coordinators earn less due to limited experience.
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Mid-level professionals with specialized knowledge earn significantly more.
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Senior QA Coordinators with leadership roles and certifications command top salaries.
2. Industry and Employer
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Large companies and highly regulated industries (e.g., pharmaceuticals, aerospace) offer higher salaries.
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Smaller companies or industries with less strict quality regulations tend to pay lower wages.
3. Education and Certifications
Having the right education and certifications can increase earning potential. Some of the most valuable certifications include:
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Certified Quality Auditor (CQA)
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Certified Quality Engineer (CQE)
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Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt
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Certified Quality Improvement Associate (CQIA)
A bachelor’s degree in engineering, business, life sciences, or quality management can also lead to higher salaries and better job opportunities.
4. Geographic Location
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Salaries are higher in metropolitan areas due to the increased cost of living.
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States with strong manufacturing and technology sectors tend to offer higher wages.
5. Work Schedule and Overtime
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Most QA Coordinators work 40 hours per week in a full-time role.
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Overtime, night shifts, or weekend work can increase earnings, especially in manufacturing or healthcare settings.
Career Growth Opportunities for QA Coordinators
A Quality Assurance Coordinator role can be a stepping stone to higher-paying positions.
1. Moving into Senior QA Roles
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QA Specialist: $65,000 – $90,000 per year.
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QA Supervisor: $70,000 – $95,000 per year.
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QA Manager: $85,000 – $120,000 per year.
2. Advancing to Quality Management
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Regulatory Compliance Manager: $80,000 – $110,000 per year.
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Quality Systems Auditor: $85,000 – $115,000 per year.
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Director of Quality Assurance: $100,000 – $150,000 per year.
3. Transitioning to Related Fields
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Operations Manager
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Risk Management Specialist
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Process Improvement Consultant
These roles often offer higher salaries, leadership responsibilities, and greater career stability.
Is a Career as a QA Coordinator Worth It?
Pros
✔ Strong job stability and demand across industries.
✔ Competitive salary with room for growth.
✔ Opportunities for advancement into management roles.
✔ Transferable skills that can be applied in multiple industries.
Cons
✖ Repetitive tasks and documentation requirements.
✖ Can be stressful due to regulatory compliance and tight deadlines.
✖ Entry-level salaries may be lower compared to other technical fields.
The salary of a Quality Assurance Coordinator depends on experience, industry, location, and certifications. While entry-level salaries range from $45,000 – $55,000 per year, experienced professionals can earn $70,000 or more.
Industries like pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and aerospace offer higher salaries, while obtaining certifications and specialized expertise can significantly boost earning potential.
With strong demand, career advancement opportunities, and competitive pay, a career as a QA Coordinator is an excellent choice for those interested in quality control and process improvement.