Metal Materials Inspector
きんぞくざいりょうけんさこう
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Specialist in the manufacturing process who inspects and tests the physical and chemical properties of metal materials, as well as surface and internal defects, to ensure product quality.
Description
Metal materials inspectors visualize and numerically evaluate material properties and defects by conducting hardness tests, tensile tests, spectroscopic analysis, microstructure observation using microscopes, and non-destructive testing. They operate inspection equipment, measure and analyze data, record and report test results, and confirm compliance with JIS standards and internal criteria. Compliance with inspection procedures and calibration management of measuring instruments are required. They collaborate with manufacturing processes and quality control departments based on inspection results to investigate defect causes and consider measures to prevent recurrence. In recent years, the introduction of automated inspection equipment and AI-based image analysis has progressed, requiring knowledge of equipment and acquisition of digital technology skills.
Future Outlook
Demand will continue steadily due to strengthened quality control in manufacturing. While the spread of AI and automated inspection technologies will require higher-level equipment operation and analysis skills, there is also a possibility of labor reduction.
Personality Traits
Work Style
Contracted Inspection / In-Factory Inspection / On-Site / Shift Work
Career Path
Junior Inspector → Senior Inspector → Inspection Leader / Team Leader → Quality Manager → Quality Assurance Manager
Required Skills
Hardness Testing / Measuring Instrument Operation / Metal Microstructure Observation / Non-Destructive Testing Techniques / Tensile Testing Machine Operation
Recommended Skills
CAD Drawing Reading / JIS Standards Knowledge / Manufacturing Process Knowledge / Quality Control Techniques (QC Seven Tools) / Statistical Process Control
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | High attention to detail is required to not miss minute defects. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Creativity is not particularly required as procedures are faithfully executed according to manuals and standards. |
| Initiative & Leadership | The work mainly follows prescribed procedures, so spontaneous leadership is not required. |
Aliases
- Materials Inspector
- Metal Materials Tester
Related Jobs
- Materials Testing Technician
- Non-Destructive Testing Technician
- Quality Manager