Lead Quality Engineer

Nicholas Associates; Manchester; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Quality Engineer to lead quality management efforts in a dynamic manufacturing environment. This role is crucial for ensuring that all products meet the highest quality standards and involves close collaboration with production teams. You will spearhead quality control processes, conduct inspections, and drive process improvements while maintaining compliance with industry regulations. If you are passionate about quality and eager to make a significant impact in a well-respected company, this opportunity is perfect for you.

Benefits

25 days holiday plus statutory holidays

Flexible working options

Diversity and Inclusion initiatives

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in quality engineering within manufacturing, preferably metals.
• Strong knowledge of ISO 9001 and quality management systems.

Responsibilities

• Oversee quality control processes and ensure compliance with industry standards.
• Lead process improvements and support continuous improvement initiatives.

Skills

Problem-solving skills

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Organisational skills

Education

Qualification in Engineering

Qualification in Materials Science

Tools

SPC

FMEA

Root Cause Analysis

Six Sigma

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Position: Quality Engineer / Lead Quality Engineer

Location: Manchester

Sector: Metals manufacturing

Salary: £35,000 - £45,000

With a new Operations Manager in place delivering process improvements and efficiencies, this is a great opportunity to join a very well-established metals manufacturing business in Manchester.

You will take the day-to-day lead for all Quality management on the site.

As a Quality Engineer, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring that all manufacturing processes and products meet the highest quality standards. You will work closely with production teams to monitor, assess, and improve quality.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Quality Control & Assurance: Oversee the quality control processes throughout the production cycle, ensuring products are manufactured in accordance with industry standards and customer specifications. Conduct regular inspections and tests to verify the quality of raw materials, in-process products, and finished goods.
2. Process Improvement: Identify areas for improvement in manufacturing processes and work with cross-functional teams to implement corrective actions. Lead and support continuous improvement initiatives to reduce waste, improve product quality, and increase efficiency.
3. Compliance & Documentation: Maintain accurate records of quality inspections, testing, and audits. Ensure compliance with industry quality standards (ISO 9001) and health & safety regulations.
4. Customer Liaison: Being the main point of contact for customer technical and quality queries, maintaining the NCR register, and working collaboratively with the production team to solve problems and troubleshoot.
5. Root Cause Analysis & Problem Solving: Investigate quality issues and non-conformities, using root cause analysis techniques to identify the underlying causes. Develop and implement effective solutions to resolve issues and prevent recurrence.
6. Mentoring and Training: Acting as a mentor to production operatives and working with management to improve skills within the factory and foster a culture of quality and continuous improvement in everything we do.
7. Supplier Quality Management: Work closely with suppliers to ensure the quality of materials and components meets the required standards. Participate in supplier audits and quality assessments.
8. Reporting: Prepare and present regular quality reports to senior management, highlighting key performance indicators, trends, and areas for improvement.

Key Requirements:

1. Qualification (or equivalent experience) in Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.
2. Proven experience (2+ years) in a quality engineering role within the manufacturing sector, preferably in metals manufacturing.
3. Strong knowledge of quality management systems (ISO 9001 or equivalent).
4. Experience with quality control tools (e.g., SPC, FMEA, Root Cause Analysis, Six Sigma).
5. Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
6. Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams.
7. Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
8. Excellent organisational skills and proficient in the use of Microsoft Word and Excel.

Normal hours: 39 hours per week.

Monday to Thursday: 7.00 to 16.00 (30 mins lunch)

Friday: 8.00am to 13:00pm

Holiday entitlement: 25 days plus statutory holidays

About Us

We are dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive community. In line with our Diversity and Inclusion policy, we welcome applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability. As a Disability Confident Employer, and part of the Nicholas Associates Group, we are committed to supporting candidates with disabilities, and we're happy to discuss flexible working options.

We are committed to protecting the privacy of all our candidates and clients. If you choose to apply, your information will be processed in accordance with the Nicholas Associates Group.