Annual Salary Survey Shows Silver Lining

Milwaukee, Wis.—In spite of the current economy, there is positive news for the quality profession. According to the 2009 Annual Salary Survey by American Society for Quality (ASQ), the average quality job salary went up 3 percent from 2008, to just under $84,000. Moreover, as in past surveys, the results show that respondents’ salaries increase as their experience in the quality field increases. Quality professionals with
• more than 20 years experience earned an average of $94,029.
• 10 to 20 years averaged $84,722.
• 10 or fewer years averaged $73,271.

The survey, conducted by Quality Progress (QP), ASQ’s monthly publication, also showed that certifications and training can increase a quality professional’s earning potential.
• Managers who are ASQ Certified Managers of Quality/Organizational Excellence reported higher average salaries than their counterparts without this certification. In the United States, the difference is $9,551. In Canada, the difference is $7,742.
• Respondents who completed one or more Six Sigma training programs report average earnings of $12,456 more than those who didn’t.

In addition to salary comparison, the survey showed the effects of the economic recession: Almost 85 percent of those surveyed indicated that their organization is taking steps as a result of the economic recession that included pay cuts, salary freezes, layoffs, and hiring freezes. And 4.9 percent responded that they are unemployed, retired, or laid off. 

For full results of the survey, visit QP.