Quality Assurance Engineer

NP Aerospace, Ltd.; Coventry; On-site; GBP 37,000 - 43,000

Job description

Hours: 08:00-16:35 (Mon–Thu) 08:00-15:10 (Fri)

Vacancy Type: Full-time, permanent & based onsite

Pay: £37,500 - £42,500 per annum + Discretionary Bonus + Benefits

JOB SUMMARY

Are you a Quality Assurance Engineer looking for an opportunity to work on cutting-edge defence projects in a high-impact, precision-driven environment? If so, this could be the perfect role for you!

At NP Aerospace, we design, manufacture, and integrate advanced protective solutions, including ballistic armour and vehicle systems.

As a Quality Assurance Engineer, you will play a key role in ensuring our products meet strict industry and regulatory standards. You will be responsible for overseeing complex inspections, including NDT scans and CMM analysis, and ensuring full traceability across manufacturing projects. You will collaborate with Development Engineering, Procurement, and Supplier Quality teams to manage first-off samples, FAIRs, and ISIRs, as well as review batch testing reports and investigate non-conformances.

If you have a keen eye for detail, strong problem-solving skills, and a passion for quality in defence manufacturing, we’d love to hear from you!

• Flexible working hours (subject to operational needs)
• Holidays – 25 days + 8 Bank Holidays + Holiday Purchase Scheme
• Two weeks paid leave for Reservists to attend yearly training/camp
• Pension – ER/EE – 4%/5% = 9% combined

JOB DUTIES

• Lead and perform complex inspections using advanced techniques, including NDT scans and CMM analysis, to ensure product compliance with engineering and quality standards.
• Prepare and maintain detailed quality reports, accurately documenting inspection results and non-conformances.
• Manage and regulate first-off samples and FAIR databases, ensuring strict adherence to project requirements and regulatory standards.
• Support cross-functional teams (Development Engineering, Supplier Quality Engineering, and Procurement) by facilitating ISIRs, PPAP, and PSW sign-offs.
• Analyse batch testing reports, investigate potential test failures, and recommend corrective actions to improve product quality.
• Develop and implement a structured Process Audit schedule, recording all findings and driving continuous improvement across manufacturing projects.
• Apply root cause analysis techniques (e.g., 8D, 5-Why) to resolve long-standing non-conformance reports (NCRs) and prevent recurring issues.
• Assist the Quality Manager with reviewing and approving concessions, deviations, and engineering change requests (ECRs).
• Conduct risk assessments on all quality-related processes, ensuring compliance with ISO 9001, BSI, and MOD regulatory standards.
• Perform regular traceability checks, ensuring accurate documentation and accountability across all manufacturing projects.
• Approve and sign off Certificates of Conformity (CoCs) for completed NP Aerospace products, verifying adherence to customer and industry specifications.
• Provide quality support across multiple business units and sites, adapting to evolving project needs and company priorities.

EXPERIENCE

• Proven experience in applying Quality methodologies, tools, and techniques, including 8D and 5WHY for root cause analysis and continuous improvement.
• Solid understanding and experience with ISO 9001, BSI standards, and conducting MOD detailed audits to ensure compliance and quality standards.
• Demonstrated experience in a high-volume manufacturing environment, ideally within Automotive, Aerospace, or Defence sectors.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively across all levels of the organisation.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy, ensuring the highest quality standards in all tasks and projects.
• Outstanding organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently and meet deadlines consistently.
• Proficient in problem-solving, planning, and decision-making, with a proactive approach to addressing issues as they arise.
• Commercially aware, understanding the broader business context and how quality impacts the overall success of the company.
• Advanced IT skills, including the ability to create performance reports, plan audits, and manage documented procedures effectively.
• Capable of communicating with personnel at all levels, both internally and externally, in relation to quality matters.
• Target-driven, with a hands-on attitude, focused on achieving objectives and continuously improving quality outcomes.
• 5 years’ experience in the industry or a similar role, with a proven track record in quality assurance.
• A relevant manufacturing/engineering degree is preferred, or equivalent proven experience in a related field.

WHAT DO WE DO AT NP AEROSPACE?

NP Aerospace is a global leader in armour technology manufacturing and vehicle integration, delivering high-performance, lifesaving solutions for the defence and security industry.

Our mission is to improve and protect lives, and our vision is to be a leading provider of innovative solutions that solve our customers' complex challenges. Our values - Respect, Collaboration, Integrity, and Dedication form the bedrock of our culture.

Our extensive range of combat-proven body armour, from ballistic helmets, plates, and shields to bomb disposal suits, highlights some of the most advanced composite materials. With a team of R&D engineers working on next-generation solutions, we also excel in highly engineered vehicle systems and armour platforms used by some of the world’s largest defence organisations.

Founded in 1926, NP Aerospace has served the defence industry for over 40 years, evolving into an agile and diverse company. Our Business Development team is expanding both in the UK and North America.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement: NP Aerospace is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of race, colour, national origin, gender, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or any other legally protected status. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs. We are also fully committed to supporting the Defence Community and actively advertise roles on Defence specific platforms such as CTP, Force Families, Forces Employment Charity, and Veterans Job Board.

Data Privacy: NP Aerospace respects the privacy of all applicants. Personal information provided during the application process will be treated in accordance with our privacy policy and applicable data protection laws.

Please note: If successful, you will be required to sign the Official Secrets Act and successfully pass the necessary checks before you can begin your employment with NP Aerospace.