Quality Inspector | 1st Shift

Central Garden & Pet Company; Sanford (NC); On-site; USD 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Central Garden & Pet Company in Sanford, NC is seeking a detail-oriented Quality Inspector for the 1st shift. The role inspects incoming materials, in-process components, and finished goods to ensure they meet customer specifications and company standards, with training provided for entry-level applicants.

You will document inspection results, support production efficiency, and collaborate with teams to resolve quality issues.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years of experience in manufacturing or quality inspection.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Basic math skills (including units of measure and tolerance).
• Ability to read and follow written and verbal instructions.
• Must be able to lift >50 lbs. and perform physical tasks.
• Available to work Monday-Friday with possible overtime.

Responsibilities

• Inspect materials and products for defects or deviations from specifications.
• Verify dimensions and tolerances of parts and finished goods.
• Identify and reject defective items and return to operators for rework when necessary.
• Maintain documentation of quality control standards and inspection results.
• Compile and organize inspection reports and records.
• Investigate root causes of quality issues and recommend corrective actions.
• Collaborate with production teams to resolve quality and efficiency concerns.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization in the work area.
• Perform other duties as assigned by management.

Skills

Attention to detail

Quality assurance

Communication skills

Microsoft Office

Reading & following instructions

Tools

Microsoft Office

Windows

Email communication

Job description

Location: Sanford, NC, United States
Date Posted: Oct 7, 2026
Job ID: JV-2598

We’re seeking a detail-oriented Quality Inspectors to join our 1st shift team. In this role, you’ll be responsible for inspecting incoming materials, in-process components, and finished goods to ensure they meet customer specifications and company standards. You’ll play a key role in maintaining product integrity and supporting production efficiency. This is an entry-level position with training provided, ideal for individuals looking to grow their career in manufacturing and quality assurance.

Key Responsibilities

• Inspect materials and products for defects or deviations from specifications
• Verify dimensions and tolerances of parts and finished goods
• Identify and reject defective items; return to operators for rework when necessary
• Maintain documentation of quality control standards and inspection results
• Compile and organize inspection reports and records
• Investigate root causes of quality issues and recommend corrective actions
• Collaborate with production teams to resolve quality and efficiency concerns
• Maintain cleanliness and organization in the work area
• Perform other duties as assigned by management

Qualifications & Requirements

• Minimum 2 years of experience in manufacturing or quality inspection
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality
• Basic math skills (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division)
• Understanding of units of measure and tolerance
• Ability to read and follow written and verbal instructions
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Windows, and email communication
• Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to lift >50 lbs., walk, stand, push, pull, reach, bend, stoop, climb, carry, sit for prolonged periods of time
• Must be available to work flexible hours shift Monday-Friday (Schedule subject to change).
• Mandatory overtime on occasion
• Valid driver's license

Central Garden & Pet Company (NASDAQ: CENT) (NASDAQ: CENTA) is a leading consumer goods company in the pet and garden industries. Guided by the belief that home is central to life, the Company's purpose is to proudly nurture happy and healthy homes. For over 45 years, its innovative and trusted solutions have helped lawns grow greener, gardens bloom bigger, pets live healthier, and communities grow stronger. Central is home to a diversified portfolio of market-leading brands including Amdro®, Aqueon®, Best Bully Sticks®, Cadet®, C&S®, Farnam®, Ferry-Morse®, Kaytee®, Nylabone®, Pennington®, Sevin® and Zoёcon®. With fiscal 2025 net sales of $3.1 billion, Central has strong manufacturing and logistics capabilities supported by a passionate, entrepreneurial growth culture. The Company is headquartered in Walnut Creek, California, and employs over 6,000 people, primarily across North America. Visit www.central.com to learn more.

We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by law.