Quality Engineer

Altrad UK, Ireland & Nordics; Helensburgh; Hybrid; GBP 42,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

Altrad UK, Ireland & Nordics is seeking an experienced Quality Advisor to provide QA/QC support to the Project Team, fostering a strong quality presence on site and ensuring right‑first‑time delivery across a portfolio of projects.

The role covers development of quality procedures, auditing, supplier surveillance, and implementation of client quality requirements, with a hybrid office/home pattern. Nuclear/defence sector experience and SC clearance are highly valued.

Qualifications

• Full understanding and implementation of quality management systems (ISO 9001:2015).
• Minimum 5 years' experience in a quality engineering delivery role within a highly regulated/high-integrity industry (defence, nuclear, oil and gas, aerospace, pharmaceutical).
• Demonstrable experience in quality engineering roles gained from involvement with multiple projects and domains.
• Good IT skills, proficient using Word, Excel, SharePoint and other Microsoft tools.
• Effective report writing skills.
• SC Clearance (or ability to gain prior to commencing employment).
• Industry recognised auditor qualification e.g. ISO 9001 Lead / Internal.
• Hold a relevant HNC (Level 4 or higher) qualification in an engineering discipline, OR demonstrate equivalent experience.
• Understanding of nuclear compliance / legislation and quality requirements (AQAP 2110 / 2105).
• Experience on refurbishment work specially fixed cranes, ECI or mechanical and electrical services.
• Associated professional membership in an appropriate discipline (CQI / IRCA).
• Industry recognised NDE (PCN/CSWIP) qualification.

Responsibilities

• Support QA/QC processes and plans to meet project requirements.
• Attend site to support supplier QA/QC inspections and surveillance.
• Conduct internal and supplier audits/health checks to verify compliance and identify improvements.
• Monitor quality performance against KPIs and address areas of concern.
• Oversee product quality verification activities including supplier surveillance and release inspections.
• Manage quality risks, NCRs, and defect notifications.
• Carry out quality investigations and root cause analyses.
• Coordinate Lifetime Quality Records and review supplier documentation packs.
• Liaise with third‑party representatives and Government Quality Assurance Representatives as required.

Skills

Quality engineering delivery

Audit experience

Root cause analysis

Report writing

IT skills

SC Clearance

NDE qualification awareness

CQI / IRCA member

Education

HNC in engineering (Level 4+)

Equivalent experience

ISO 9001 Lead Auditor certification

Tools

Word

Excel

SharePoint

Job description

Working pattern: hybrid (office based & home)

Altrad are currently looking for an experienced Quality Advisor to join the team.

The nuclear defence sector in the UK is vital for maintaining national security and strategic stability. It offers dynamic and challenging career opportunities for individuals committed to contributing to the country's defence and security. The sector seeks talented professionals dedicated to upholding the highest standards of safety, security, and operational excellence.

About the role:

To provide quality assurance (QA) and quality control (QC) support and expertise to the Project Team to support right first‑time delivery. Foster a site quality presence at site to develop good working relationships with Suppliers / Site Stakeholders. Support the identification and flow‑down of client quality requirements to the supply chain. Work collaboratively with quality peers from the client and suppliers to ensure that all learning from experience (LFE) is captured, shared and incorporated into future works and shared across all aspects of the portfolio of projects.

• Support Project Management and Functional Leads in developing quality procedures, processes, and plans to meet project requirements.
• Review tender, contract, and quality documentation (e.g. ITPs, Quality Plans, Specifications) for compliance with client and contractual requirements.
• Attend site regularly to support planning and management of supplier QA/QC inspections and surveillance activities.
• Conduct internal and supplier audits/health checks to verify compliance and identify process improvements.
• Monitor quality performance against KPIs and identify areas of concern.
• Oversee product quality verification activities, including supplier manufacturing/installation surveillance, FATs, SATs, and release inspections.
• Support the management of quality risks, opportunities, NCRs, and defect notifications.
• Carry out quality investigations, root cause analysis, and supplier escalation/improvement activities.
• Coordinate Lifetime Quality Records and manage the review and approval of supplier documentation packs.
• Liaise with third‑party representatives and Government Quality Assurance Representatives (GQARs) as required.

Key Requirements / Qualifications:

• Full understanding and implementation of quality management systems (ISO 9001:2015).
• Minimum 5 years' experience in a quality engineering delivery role within a highly regulated/high‑integrity industry (e.g. defence, nuclear, oil and gas, aerospace, pharmaceutical).
• Demonstrable experience in quality engineering roles gained from involvement with multiple projects and domains.
• Good IT skills, proficient using Word, Excel, SharePoint and other Microsoft tools.
• Effective report writing skills.
• SC Clearance (or ability to gain prior to commencing employment).
• Industry recognised auditor qualification e.g. ISO 9001 Lead / Internal.
• Hold a relevant HNC (i.e., Level 4 or higher) qualification in an engineering discipline, OR demonstrate equivalent experience.
• Understanding of nuclear compliance / legislation and quality requirements (AQAP 2110 / 2105).
• Experience on refurbishment work specially fixed cranes, ECI or mechanical and electrical services.
• Associated professional membership in an appropriate discipline (e.g. CQI / IRCA).
• Industry recognised NDE (Non‑Destructive Engineering / NDT (Non‑Destructive Testing) qualification e.g. PCN/CSWIP).

Why Join Us?

• Work on high‑impact projects within a leading organisation at the forefront of the nuclear industry.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunities for career growth and professional development.
• Collaborative and dynamic work environment with a focus on innovation and excellence.

As an employer, we are committed to promoting and protecting the physical and mental health and wellbeing of all our people.

Inclusivity Statement

We are committed to making our recruitment process accessible and inclusive. If you require any adjustments at any stage – including interviews or assessments – please let us know. We’re happy to discuss what would help you take part fully.