QA/QC Manager

QA/QC Manager: The Guardian of Quality and Compliance

Why This Role Matters

In construction, rework is costly—and mistakes can be catastrophic. That’s why the QA/QC Manager exists. They protect quality, enforce standards, and ensure that what gets built is exactly what was designed and specified.

On highly regulated or technically demanding projects like data centers, clean labs, and government work, QA/QC Managers play a critical role. They’re not just inspectors—they’re the frontline defense against failure.

They make sure that what’s poured, installed, or wired today still performs 20 years from now.

What Does a QA/QC Manager Do?

QA/QC Managers are responsible for developing, implementing, and enforcing quality assurance and quality control plans. Their responsibilities typically include:

• Writing the project-specific QA/QC plan and protocols
• Reviewing submittals and verifying conformance
• Conducting field inspections and audits at critical milestones
• Managing punch lists, issue logs, and non-conformance reports
• Coordinating with third-party testing labs and consultants
• Working with supers and subs to correct deviations in real time
• Supporting commissioning and turnover with full documentation

They’re equal parts detective, technician, and educator—catching problems early and coaching teams to build better.

Where They Fit on the Jobsite

QA/QC Managers move between job trailers and job sites. Their day often includes:

• Spot-checking formwork before concrete placement
• Reviewing firestop or envelope installs against the specs
• Managing submittal approvals and closeout logs
• Participating in OAC and coordination meetings
• Assisting commissioning agents and owner reps with validation
• Keeping detailed documentation in case of disputes or inspections

They build relationships across the project to ensure collaboration, not confrontation.

Tools of the Trade

• QA/QC tracking software (e.g. BIM 360 Field, Procore, Latista)
• PDF markup tools like Bluebeam
• Excel logs for nonconformance tracking and resolution
• Knowledge of ICC, ASTM, UL listings, and project-specific standards
• Physical tools: gauges, levels, tape measures, and cameras
• Soft skills: attention to detail, persistence, diplomacy

Who Excels in This Role?

Strong QA/QC Managers are:

• Detail-oriented, thorough, and consistent
• Technically strong and able to read drawings and specs
• Able to collaborate with field teams without friction
• Confident in enforcing standards—even when under pressure
• Organized and documentation-driven

Many come from:

• Field engineering or inspection roles
• Trade foreman with strong documentation skills
• Commissioning or owner rep backgrounds
• Architectural or structural engineering degrees with field exposure

Career Growth: Where Can a QA/QC Manager Go?

Path From:

• Field Engineer
• Assistant Superintendent
• Trade Quality Inspector
• Commissioning Tech

Path To:

• Senior QA/QC Manager
• Commissioning Manager
• Director of Quality
• Owner’s Rep
• Risk or Compliance Director

A Day in the Life

"I spent the morning walking the penthouse mechanical room, checking MEP penetrations and firestopping. One trade tried to skip a UL detail, so I flagged it and got it corrected. After that, I reviewed a curtain wall mockup, updated the punch log, and prepped for tomorrow’s third-party inspection. Every detail matters—because if we miss it now, it costs ten times more later."

Want to Build It Right the First Time?

QA/QC pros are the last line of defense between done and redone. We work with builders who treat quality as a strategic advantage—and with professionals who enforce it with discipline and respect.

Looking to make your next move in quality management? [Join our talent network]
Need a QA/QC expert for your next build? [Talk to a recruiter who gets it]

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