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Stuart Gentle Publisher at Onrec

Survey reveals high levels of job satisfaction among quality professionals

Research released today reveals that quality professionals have some of the highest levels of job satisfaction compared to related professions.

The independent study of more than 1,800 people working within quality and auditing, which was commissioned by the Chartered Quality Institute and specialist recruitment agency Shirley Parsons, revealed that 72% were satisfied with their jobs, compared to just 51% of engineers, 63% of lawyers and 43% of teachers.

Those who reported high levels of job satisfaction listed a sense of achievement, variable work, as well as the ability to share knowledge as the key contributing factors.

The report, also revealed an average salary of £57,677, with employers primarily valuing communication skills, personality, experience and professional qualifications.

Chartered Quality Institute members were also found to earn an average of 35% more than non-members (£61,814 compared to £45,622).

The average salary for men working full-time within the sector was 23% higher than for women (£58,496 compared to £47,365), highlighting an area for improvement. Positively, however, those aged between 16 and 34 working in Europe, reported a parity of earnings - with women in this age group earning slightly more than men. 

The survey results also revealed the potential for longevity within a career in quality, more than 43% or respondents had worked within quality for more than 20 years and 10% were aged 65 and above.

Estelle Clark, Director of Policy at the Chartered Quality Institute, said: “Our latest report demonstrates strong levels of job satisfaction throughout the quality industry. With quantifiable results, such as improved business performance, service delivery and product performance at the heart of many quality roles, it is no wonder that a sense of achievement was identified as a key contributor to job satisfaction and that seeking out challenges was the main driver for those looking for new positions. 

“The importance that employers place on communication as a key attribute of quality practitioners demonstrates its integral role within the profession. The ability to effectively explain quality measures and their results, reveals the true value of quality, ensuring that it’s not simply seen as a box ticking exercise, but a transformative tool that can enact real positive change.

“Overall, quality professionals make a highly valued contribution to the businesses they operate in and it’s great to see such high levels of motivation and job satisfaction driving the industry forward.”

The full results of the Chartered Quality Institute’s Workforce Insights report can be downloaded here: www.quality.org/insights-report