Quality Assurance Engineer - Space

iO Associates; Harwell; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Our Client is seeking a Space Industry Quality Assurance Engineer to validate quality, safety and reliability across product lifecycles for space missions and satellite deployments.

Role focuses on implementing QA programmes, conducting audits, managing nonconformances, and driving continuous improvement with cross-functional teams and suppliers.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or higher in engineering or closely related technical field.
• 3–5 years QA experience in aerospace, electronics, automotive, or related sectors.
• Experience supporting product design, manufacturing, testing and delivery.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement QA programmes to ensure product integrity from design to deployment.
• Conduct rigorous quality control and verify compliance at each stage of the lifecycle.
• Lead Quality Management System activities aligned with ISO 9001 standards.

Skills

Engineering knowledge

Quality assurance

ECSS/NASA/IPC/JEDEC

Communication

Analytical thinking

Education

Bachelor's degree or higher in engineering

Tools

Quality tools

Job description

Join Our Client's Innovative Team as a Space Industry Quality Assurance Engineer

Our Client operates within the dynamic and rapidly evolving space sector, specialising in robotics, satellite systems, and geointelligence. With a proud heritage of pioneering achievements spanning over five decades, they are recognised globally for advancing space exploration, Earth observation, and communication technologies. Renowned for fostering a collaborative and forward-thinking culture, they offer an inspiring environment dedicated to innovation, growth, and making a meaningful impact - both on Earth and beyond.

This is a strategic hiring initiative driven by the continual development of space products designed to operate reliably for up to 15 years in the harsh environment of space. The role promises an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge projects supporting next-generation exploration and satellite systems, making a tangible difference in the universe's future.

As a Quality Assurance Engineer, you will be instrumental in validating that our client's products meet the highest standards of quality, safety, and reliability throughout their lifecycle. Your work will directly influence the success of space missions and satellite deployments, underlining the critical nature of this position at the forefront of technological advancement.

Key responsibilities include:

• Developing and implementing comprehensive quality assurance programmes and processes to ensure product integrity from initial design through to deployment
• Conducting rigorous quality control checks and verifying compliance at every stage of the product lifecycle
• Managing Quality Management System activities aligned with ISO 9001 standards, including procedure development and documentation
• Leading internal audits, identifying areas for improvement, and implementing operational enhancements
• Collaborating with cross-functional teams, suppliers, and stakeholders to embed a quality-first approach across all processes
• Managing nonconformances and anomalies, ensuring prompt resolution and root cause analysis
• Establishing performance metrics and KPIs to track quality performance, drive continuous improvement, and foster a quality-centric culture

Essential qualifications and experience:

• A bachelor's degree or higher in an engineering or closely related technical field
• Between three and five years of quality assurance experience within aerospace, electronics, automotive, or related sectors
• Demonstrable expertise in supporting product design, manufacturing, testing, and delivery
• Proven experience applying quality tools for failure investigation and resolution
• Familiarity with quality management systems, supplier quality assurance, audit procedures, and continuous improvement methodologies
• Strong communication skills capable of driving collaboration across diverse teams
• Analytical mindset with keen attention to detail
• Knowledge of electronics, optical components, and manufacturing processes relevant to aerospace and consumer electronics
• Experience with industry standards such as ECSS, NASA, IPC, and JEDEC
• Understanding of the product development lifecycle and advanced quality planning tools
• Additional expertise in satellite payloads, robotics, optical systems, or electronic component manufacturing would be advantageous

We welcome highly motivated professionals eager to advance their careers in the space industry. If you are passionate about quality assurance and aspire to be part of groundbreaking projects that push the boundaries of technology and exploration.

Our Client is committed to fostering diversity and inclusivity, ensuring an equitable opportunity for all qualified candidates.