Production Quality Assurance Engineer

STARK; Swindon; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading defense technology company in Swindon is looking for a Quality Assurance Manager to ensure product quality throughout the lifecycle. This role involves collaborating with engineering and production teams, managing quality systems, and leading inspections. Ideal candidates will have substantial quality management experience, as well as a technical degree. A hands-on approach and strong leadership skills are essential.

Qualifications

• Significant experience in quality management in aerospace, automotive or defence industries.
• Solid knowledge of QM tools like APQP, PPAP, FMEA.
• Working knowledge of ISO 9001 and experience with EN9100 is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Implement and uphold quality requirements across the production lifecycle.
• Conduct dimensional, in-process and final product inspections.
• Investigate customer complaints and lead root cause analysis.

Skills

Quality management

Attention to detail

Problem-solving

Leadership

Communication skills

Education

Technical degree or equivalent vocational qualification

Tools

ISO 9001

APQP

PPAP

FMEA

MS Office

Job description

Join to apply for the Quality Assurance Manager role at STARK

Join to apply for the Quality Assurance Manager role at STARK

Get AI-powered advice on this job and more exclusive features.

Direct message the job poster from STARK

Tech talent matchmaker and pink squirrel hunter within future technology

STARK is a next-generation defence technology company driving a fundamental shift in how autonomous systems are deployed in operational theatres. We design, build, and deliver high-performance unmanned platforms that are software-driven, scalable, and cost-effective — giving allied forces a decisive edge in contested environments.

Our systems are built for real-world deployment today, not distant promises. In an increasingly volatile world, STARK supports NATO and partner nations in reinforcing technological superiority and maintaining credible deterrence.

Your mission

As Quality Assurance Manager, you’ll play a pivotal role in ensuring our products meet the highest standards across the entire lifecycle — from development through to delivery. You’ll embed a culture of quality throughout the business and work closely with engineering, production, and supply chain teams to continuously enhance our systems and processes.

This is a hands-on, senior role where attention to detail, proactive problem-solving, and strong leadership are key to success.

Responsibilities

• Implement and uphold quality requirements across the production lifecycle, including APQP, PPAP and FMEA
• Develop and maintain inspection and manufacturing quality plans
• Execution and facilitation of FMEAs (product & process) with specialist personnel
• Quality planning across the entire manufacturing process
• Establish and maintain quality management documentation and procedures
• Conduct dimensional, in-process and final product inspections
• Make go/no-go decisions on non-conforming products
• Investigate customer complaints and lead root cause analysis with sustainable corrective actions
• Plan and conduct internal and external audits
• Introduction and development of our quality management system (ISO 9001, with perspective toward EN9100)
• Oversight of incoming goods, including inspection plans and supplier approvals
• Manage supplier non-conformance, corrective actions, and performance reviews
• Deliver internal training and communications to promote a strong quality culture

Qualifications

• A technical degree or equivalent vocational qualification in engineering, quality or related discipline
• Significant experience in quality management, ideally in aerospace, automotive or defence industries
• Solid knowledge of relevant QM tools (APQP, PPAP, FMEA etc.)
• Working knowledge of ISO 9001 (essential); experience with EN9100 (highly desirable)
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with the confidence to influence at all levels
• A hands-on, proactive and systematic approach to problem-solving
• Proficiency in MS Office and quality management software/tools
• Comfortable with travelling to Munich for initial training
• Must be eligible for UK Security Clearance

LEGAL DISCLAIMER

We are an equal-opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law. Due to the nature of our work in the defense sector, candidates must be eligible to obtain and maintain the appropriate security clearance required for the position.

Seniority level

• Seniority level

  Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Employment type

  Full-time

Job function

• Job function

  Quality Assurance and Production

• Industries

  Defense and Space Manufacturing, Automation Machinery Manufacturing, and Aviation and Aerospace Component Manufacturing

Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at STARK by 2x

Get notified about new Quality Assurance Manager jobs in Swindon, England, United Kingdom.

We’re unlocking community knowledge in a new way. Experts add insights directly into each article, started with the help of AI.