Quality Manager Salary Guide

A Quality Manager leads quality assurance and control activities across product and project lifecycles to ensure products meet regulatory, safety and customer standards. They design and maintain quality systems, drive continuous improvement, manage audits, mentor QA teams, and collaborate with product, engineering, and operations to reduce defects and optimize processes.

What is the average Quality Manager salary?

Entry Level

$65,000 - $85,000

Mid Level

$90,000 - $120,000

Senior Level

$125,000 - $170,000+

How does Quality Manager salary grow with experience?

$60,000 - $75,000
0-2
$80,000 - $100,000
3-5
$100,000 - $130,000
6-9
$125,000 - $170,000++
10+
Base (min)
Top of range (max)
Max: $170k

Quality Manager salary by location

San Francisco Bay Area, CA$120,000 - $170,000
New York City, NY$110,000 - $160,000
Seattle, WA$105,000 - $150,000
Austin, TX$95,000 - $140,000
Remote (US average)$85,000 - $135,000
Base (min)
Top of range (max)

What factors affect a Quality Manager's salary?

  • Industry and regulatory complexity (medical devices, aerospace, pharma pay premiums)
  • Geographic location and local market demand
  • Technical skills and certifications (ASQ, Six Sigma, ISO auditors)
  • Company size, revenue, and stage (startups may offer equity; enterprises higher base pay)
  • Scope of responsibility (team size, global programs, P&L influence)

Frequently Asked Questions About Quality Manager Salaries

What is the average salary for a Quality Manager in the US?

In the US, Quality Manager salaries commonly range from about $65,000 (entry) to $170,000+ (senior), with a midpoint for mid-level roles near $100,000–$120,000 depending on location and industry.

Which factors most affect a Quality Manager’s pay?

Location, industry (e.g., medical devices or aerospace pay more), company size, technical certifications (e.g., ASQ, Six Sigma), and experience level are the primary drivers of compensation.

How can I increase my Quality Manager salary?

Gain domain-specific experience, earn certifications (ASQ, Six Sigma Black/Green Belt), demonstrate measurable quality improvements, lead cross-functional programs, and target higher-paying industries or metro areas.

Are bonuses and equity common for Quality Managers?

Yes. Mid and senior Quality Managers often receive annual bonuses tied to performance and KPIs; equity is more common at startups and in tech companies, while manufacturing roles rely more on cash compensation.

Earn what you're worth as a Quality Manager

A strong resume gets you to the negotiation table. Build one tailored to your role and level.

Build Your Resume Now

Explore Related Salary Guides

See how salaries compare across similar roles in the same field.

PMO Director
Product & Project Management
Product Manager
Product & Project Management
Category Manager
Product & Project Management
Technical Product Manager
Product & Project Management
Scrum Master
Product & Project Management
Release Manager
Product & Project Management