Aerospace Design QA Lead

Safran; Preston; On-site; GBP 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Safran in Pitstone seeks a Lead Design Quality Assurance Engineer to ensure designs meet safety and regulatory requirements before production. You will lead airworthiness activities, drive audits, and guide a team across the product lifecycle to prevent defects and ensure producibility.

The role focuses on risk mitigation, compliance, and collaboration with production, engineering, and regulatory bodies to maintain 100% airworthiness compliance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in aerospace, science, or engineering preferred.
• 5–10 years in aerospace engineering, design or quality roles.
• Proficiency with ISO9001 and AS9100 QMS deployment.
• Experience with EASA/CAA Part 21J and audits.
• APQP, PPAP, FMEA, RCCA and Six Sigma knowledge desired.
• Ability to interpret drawings, CAD models and specs.

Responsibilities

• Lead design quality assurance activities under EASA/CAA Part 21J.
• Plan and deliver DOH-aligned design assurance for airworthiness.
• Lead design reviews (PDR, CDR) and milestone gates.
• Drive defect prevention, RCCA, FRACA, and CAPA programs.
• Coordinate audits and non-conformance handling with teams.
• Coach and develop QA engineers and engage with regulators.
• Represent Safran in customer and regulatory meetings.

Skills

APQP

FMEA

PPAP

Root Cause Analysis

AS9100

EASA CAA Part 21J

Auditing

Education

Bachelor's degree in aerospace, science, or engineering

Tools

ISO9001 knowledge

DOH familiarity

Job description

Safran in Pitstone seeks a Lead Design Quality Assurance Engineer to ensure designs meet safety and regulatory requirements before production. You will lead airworthiness activities, drive audits, and guide a team across the product lifecycle to prevent defects and ensure producibility.

The role focuses on risk mitigation, compliance, and collaboration with production, engineering, and regulatory bodies to maintain 100% airworthiness compliance.