Quality Assurance Engineer

Main Purpose of Job:

Our client, a manufacturer of precision gearing systems, is seeking a Quality Assurance Engineer to lead and support the day-to-day implementation of Quality Management Systems. This role focuses on maintaining compliance with ISO 9001/AS9100 standards, managing PPAP and First Article Inspections, and driving quality improvements across the business. The successful candidate will play a key role in ensuring product quality, customer satisfaction, and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities:

• Maintain and develop the Quality Management System in line with AS9100 standards and customer-specific requirements
• Manage calibration systems in accordance with quality standards
• Plan, coordinate, and support internal audits, including Non-Conformance Report (NCR) closure
• Assist with customer audits and annual compliance requirements
• Process supplier and customer returns relating to non-conforming products
• Prepare, review, and approve documentation including FAI, PPAP, 8D reports, and permits
• Lead and promote continuous improvement and quality assurance initiatives across the business
• Identify, investigate, and implement corrective and preventative actions
• Support production teams with problem-solving and root cause analysis
• Analyse internal failure trends and recommend improvements
• Ensure QA activities align with delivery targets and business priorities
• Communicate effectively with internal teams to maintain a consistent and professional working environment
• Liaise directly with customer quality representatives to resolve complaints and issues
• Compile and analyse KPI data, presenting findings to senior leadership
• Work flexibly, including occasional travel between company or customer sites

Skills and Qualifications/experience:

• Strong understanding of AS9100 standards (minimum 3 years experience)
• Experience working within a manufacturing environment
• Knowledge of quality tools such as PPAP, FAI, and 8D reporting
• Lead Auditor qualification (desirable but not essential)
• High attention to detail with strong analytical skills
• Ability to work under pressure and manage competing priorities
• Capable of working both independently and as part of a team
• Strong communication and problem-solving abilities

Benefits

• Holiday: 33 days annual holiday (including bank and public holidays)
• Group life cover: 4x current basic annual salary
• Enhanced maternity/paternity leave and pay
• Pension: salary sacrifice with Royal London (ER contribution after 3 months is 3.5%; employee minimum contribution is 5%)