Quality Engineering Manager

Northrop Grumman; City Of London; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading defence technology company in the UK seeks an experienced Quality Engineering Manager to lead their Programme Quality Engineering function. The role involves overseeing quality assurance activities, mentoring a team, and ensuring compliance with UK MOD and NATO standards. Candidates should have significant experience in a high-tech or defence environment, a relevant degree, and certification as a Lead Auditor. This is a unique opportunity to impact quality excellence in critical defence programmes.

Qualifications

• Proven experience managing engineering or quality teams in a high-tech or defence environment.
• Deep expertise in ISO 9001 / AS9100, APQP, PPAP, and MOD/NATO standards.
• Strong knowledge of IPC‑A‑610 and IPC/WHMA‑A‑620 standards.
• Experience in fabrication, welding, coatings, and technical audits.
• Fluent in English with strong IT and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of Programme Quality Engineers.
• Oversee quality assurance activities across multiple defence programmes.
• Serve as the senior technical quality lead for programme teams.
• Own and mature APQP and PPAP applications across supply chain processes.
• Host customer audits and act as the primary point of contact for quality matters.

Skills

Problem-solving

Risk management

Six Sigma skills

Strong IT skills

Communication skills

Education

Degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Quality Engineering

Certified Lead Auditor (ISO 9001, AS9100)

Job description

We're seeking a highly experienced and technically proficient Quality Engineering Manager to lead our Programme Quality Engineering function within the Defence Operating Unit (DOU). This pivotal role will oversee end-to-end programme assurance, supplier quality, and the strategic implementation of advanced quality processes across complex defence programmes.

You'll be joining our Mission Systems sector, working closely with design, engineering, and manufacturing teams to ensure our solutions meet the highest standards - from concept to delivery. This is your opportunity to shape quality excellence across some of the UK's most critical defence programmes.

What You'll Be Doing

• Lead and mentor a team of Programme Quality Engineers, driving technical excellence and continuous improvement.
• Oversee quality assurance activities across multiple defence programmes, ensuring compliance with UK MOD, NATO, and NG standards.
• Serve as the senior technical quality lead, providing strategic direction and feedback to programme teams.
• Own and mature the application of APQP and PPAP across supply chain and manufacturing processes.
• Host customer audits and act as the primary point of contact for quality matters.
• Report on quality performance and risks to senior stakeholders, using data-driven insights.

Qualifications

• Proven experience managing and developing engineering or quality teams in a high-tech or defence environment.
• Deep expertise in ISO 9001 / AS9100, APQP, PPAP, and MOD/NATO standards (AQAP 2110, Def Stan 05-57).
• Strong knowledge of IPC‑A‑610 and IPC/WHMA‑A‑620 standards.
• Experience in fabrication, welding, coatings, and technical audits.
• Degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Quality Engineering (or related field).
• Certified Lead Auditor (e.g., ISO 9001, AS9100).
• Excellent problem‑solving, risk management, and Six Sigma skills.
• Fluent in English with strong IT and communication skills.

Security Clearance

Due to the nature of our work, you must be a UK citizen and able to gain and maintain SC‑level UK Government security clearance. Our recruitment team is here to support you through the process: [e-mail]

At Northrop Grumman UK, you're part of a team that's defining what's possible. We're pioneering solutions that shape the future of defence and security, and we're looking for people who share our passion for innovation and excellence. Whether you're solving complex engineering challenges or driving strategic change, your work here matters – to our customers, our communities, and your career.

This is More Than Just a Job – It's a Mission. Every day, we contribute to building a safer, more secure world through advanced technology and trusted partnerships.

A Place to Belong and Thrive: We value every voice. Our inclusive culture empowers you to bring your whole self to work and grow in a supportive environment. Northrop Grumman is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce, and encourages individuals from all backgrounds and all abilities to apply and consider becoming a part of our diverse and inclusive workforce.