Quality Engineer

Role Summary:

We are seeking an experienced Quality Engineer to join our client’s team within a leading composite materials business, supplying cutting-edge solutions to the MOD, Formula 1, and Aerospace industries. The ideal candidate will drive the quality performance of production operations, with a focus on establishing and maintaining world-class quality controls. This role will ensure customer satisfaction, reduce production scrap, and ensure compliance with both internal and external regulatory standards.

Key Responsibilities:

Quality Management & Continuous Improvement:

• Lead and manage day-to-day Quality activities within the allocated value stream.
• Ensure compliance with documented procedures and the effective implementation of the Business Management System (BMS).
• Conduct process capability studies, statistical analysis, and data-driven decision-making to meet production targets and improve operational performance.
• Develop, implement, and monitor robust process controls to ensure consistent product and process quality, using tools such as SPC and FMEA.

Quality Engineering Tools & Processes:

• Utilize standardised Quality Engineering tools such as APQP, PPAP, PSW, FAIR, ISIR, and Control Plans to support operational consistency.
• Lead the implementation of APQP processes across production.
• Drive quality improvements through structured problem-solving methods, including 8D, PPS, and DMAIC.

Supplier & Customer Quality Management:

• Manage the response to Supplier Quality issues within the value stream.
• Lead the response to Customer Quality Concerns, driving root cause analysis and implementing corrective actions.
• Utilize the MRB (Material Review Board) process for scrap processing and problem-solving.

Lean & Process Optimisation:

• Support Lean improvement events from a Quality Engineering perspective, contributing to the reduction of waste and improvements in process flow.
• Collaborate with Manufacturing Engineering to drive improvements in Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) and right-first-time performance.

Product Development & New Process Implementation:

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to complete Quality Engineering responsibilities for the introduction of new products and processes.
• Ensure Quality requirements are met during product development and validation phases.

Compliance & Reporting:

• Ensure adherence to safety, environmental, and regulatory compliance requirements for all Quality-related activities.
• Routinely report on Quality Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).
• Contribute to the development and implementation of the annual improvement plan for the Quality function.

Audit & Training Support:

• Support internal and external audits to ensure compliance with relevant industry standards (including AS9100 Rev D, Aerospace, MOD, and F1 standards).
• Support the development and implementation of written procedures, organizational policies, and training for the Quality function.

Key Skills & Experience:

Essential:

• Proven experience in Quality Engineering within a highly regulated manufacturing environment (preferably AS9100 Rev D, Aerospace, MOD, or Formula 1 sectors).
• Experienced in using quality management methodologies such as APQP, PPAP, PSW, FAIR, ISIR, SPC, and Control Plans.
• Strong analytical skills with a focus on data-driven decision-making, process improvements, and problem-solving.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, including geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T).
• Experience with process safety, risk assessments, and regulatory compliance.

Desirable:

• Trained AS9100 Auditor.
• Familiarity with CMM measuring technology.
• Experience in lean manufacturing methodologies such as SMED, Jidoka, Single Piece Flow, and 5S.
• Proficient in project management tools such as Gantt charts and Project Charters.
• Knowledge of aerospace, MOD, or Formula 1 specifications and standards.

Attributes:

Essential:

• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Self-motivated with the ability to work autonomously and as part of a team.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with cross-functional teams.
• Methodical, organised, and with an eye for detail.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Desirable:

• Experienced in leading and mentoring teams.
• Open to change and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Proven track record in delivering projects in high-pressure environments (such as Aerospace, MOD, or F1).