Lead Supplier Quality Engineer

Verify Europe; England; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering firm is seeking a skilled Lead Supplier Quality Engineer for a 6‑month contract role in Cheltenham, UK. The successful candidate will manage suppliers to ensure quality compliance, drive continuous improvement initiatives, and support engineering and production teams. At least 5 years of experience in supplier quality engineering and a degree in Engineering or Quality Management are required. This role plays a key part in maintaining safety and quality standards within the supply chain.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in supplier quality engineering.
• Strong knowledge of ISO 9001, AS 9100 standards.
• Driver’s License for regular supplier visits.

Responsibilities

• Management of a portfolio of suppliers.
• Conduct supplier audits and assessments.
• Monitor supplier performance and drive corrective actions.
• Collaborate with suppliers on quality control processes.
• Work closely with internal teams to resolve quality issues.

Skills

Strong knowledge of quality management systems

Proven experience in conducting supplier audits

Excellent problem-solving skills

Strong communication skills

Ability to work independently

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Quality Management

Tools

Six Sigma

FMEA

SPC

Job description

Lead Supplier Quality Engineer

Cheltenham

37 hours per week

38 p/h

Contract Role – 6 months, extendable to 12 months

Job Description

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Lead Supplier Quality Engineer with automotive experience for a 6‑month initial contract position with scope to extend to 12 months. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring the quality of products and materials supplied by external vendors, driving continuous improvement initiatives, and maintaining compliance with industry standards and regulations. This role is critical to maintaining the highest levels of safety, quality, delivery, and cost (SQDC) within our supply chain.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Management of a portfolio of suppliers (both OE and Aftermarket suppliers).
• Conduct supplier audits and assessments to ensure compliance with quality standards.
• Monitor supplier performance and drive corrective actions for non‑conformances.
• Collaborate with suppliers to establish and maintain quality control processes.
• Review and approve supplier quality plans, inspection procedures, and test methods.
• Ensure that all supplied materials and components meet specified requirements.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards, regulations, and company policies.
• Maintain accurate and up‑to‑date documentation related to supplier quality activities.
• Provide technical support and guidance to suppliers on quality‑related matters.
• Work closely with engineering, procurement, and production teams to resolve quality issues.
• Facilitate communication and collaboration between internal and external stakeholders.

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Driver’s License – regular supplier visits will be required.
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Quality Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in supplier quality engineering or a similar role.
• Strong knowledge of quality management systems and standards (e.g., ISO 9001, AS 9100).
• Proven experience in conducting supplier audits and assessments.
• Excellent problem‑solving skills and ability to perform root cause analysis.
• Proficiency in quality tools and methodologies (e.g., Six Sigma, FMEA, SPC).
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.

Desirable Skills and Qualifications

• Certification in quality management (e.g., CQE, CQA).
• Experience in the automotive industry or a similar high‑precision manufacturing environment.
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing principles and practices.
• Knowledge of regulatory requirements and standards specific to the aerospace industry.