Al,
It figures that you and Kevin "Forum Wizards" would stick together. My take on the QA and the QC is that most employers do not know the difference between them. We "purists" think we do. As for the Technician vs. Inspector, I pulled these descriptions off the Internet (Altavista Search Engine). While you can make the case that aren't exactly the same, they are very similar. I know the Technician's salary range is slightly better. Have a good one.
"QUALITY CONTROL TECHNICIANS test and inspect products at specified stages in the manufacturing process to be sure that the products are safe, meet customer and international requirements, and perform as well as designed. They work with industrial engineers to set reasonable quality standards. Technicians set up and perform various kinds of tests on materials, parts, and products, such as measuring performance and durability. Some technicians test food and drug samples or raw materials to make sure they are free from contamination. They record all test data on graphs and charts, evaluate their findings, and write summary reports."
"QUALITY CONTROL INSPECTORS enforce a wide range of regulations, procedures, laws, and policies. They also help make standards that protect the public. They inspect and enforce rules. These rules may be on matters such as health, safety, food, immigration, licensing, interstate commerce, or international trade.
They take measurements, look for visible defects, and perform tests. They may compare products to samples or blueprints to find any defects or other problems. They may use testing equipment, keep records, go over statistical data, and write reports. Quality control inspectors may read engineering drawings. They do this to check on product materials and quality. They may recommend changes in production methods to improve the quality and life of the product. They keep records of their findings and recommendations. They test many different products for quality. These include foods, clothing, glassware, and musical and measuring instruments. Other products tested include automobiles and parts, electronic components, etc.."