Lead Quality Engineer

Location

Ampthill - on site

About The Role Applies quality principles in the areas of: design, incoming material, production control, product evaluation, program performance, reliability, inventory control, and/or research and development as they apply to product or process quality for make and/or buy products. Performs technical evaluations including product requirements, specifications, models/designs, drawings and procedures. Collaborates with program management, engineering, manufacturing, supply chain and customers on quality related issues to ensure quality standards are in place. Engages in product failure investigations, material review board decisions and corrective/preventive action. Ensures corrective measures meet acceptable reliability standards and/or are compliant with requirements. Develops strategies and systems designed to improve internal and/or supplier performance and productivity. Evaluates quality systems for deficiency identification and correction. Designs and analyzes inspection and testing processes, mechanisms and equipment; conducts product quality tests, performs statistical analysis to assess products or materials that do not meet required standards and specifications. Engages in supplier selection process and maintain certification programs.

Key Responsibilities

• Act as the primary point of contact for all quality issues on project
• Assuring project remains compliant to all business and contractual processes and procedures
• Manage non-conformances end-to-end, including facilitating Root Cause and Corrective Action (RCCA) processes
• Review and approve quality documentation to ensure compliance with internal and external standards
• Participate in design reviews, providing quality-focused input and guidance
• Contribute to bids and proposals by advising on quality requirements and considerations

Basic Qualifications

• Proven ability to manage and prioritise multiple tasks and projects while maintaining a high level of accuracy and attention to detail
• Confident communicator, able to engage effectively with stakeholders at all levels—from shop floor to senior management—across technical and non-technical audiences
• Strong decision-making skills, with the ability to take ownership and drive issues through to resolution
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly
• Proficient in IT systems, including Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook)
• Experience with SAP Quality Module is desirable but not essential
• Demonstrated experience in root cause analysis and implementation of corrective and preventive actions (CAPA/RCCA) is essential
• Familiarity with Quality Management Systems (e.g. ISO standards) is advantageous

Desired Skills

• A background in Materials, CNC Manufacturing & Machining, or low volume high value manufacturing & production, would help, but isn’t strictly necessary to successful application
• Knowledge of how to read CAD Drawings and Data
• Good eye for detail
• Stakeholder management skills