Quality Inspector

Emotiv Technical Recruitment; Newcastle-under-Lyme; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A recruitment agency is seeking a Quality Inspector for a manufacturer in Newcastle-under-Lyme. The role includes verifying conformity of materials and products, conducting inspections, and ensuring compliance with ISO standards. Ideal candidates have a relevant degree, experience in manufacturing, and strong problem-solving skills. This is an excellent opportunity for those looking to advance their career in a quality-focused manufacturing environment.

Qualifications

• Degree or equivalent qualification in a relevant discipline.
• Green Belt Six Sigma qualification preferred.
• Proven experience in a fast-paced manufacturing or engineering environment.

Responsibilities

• Inspect and verify products against approved drawings and specifications.
• Identify and document nonconforming products.
• Support compliance with ISO 9001 and Factory Production Control standards.

Skills

Problem-solving skills

Attention to detail

Time management skills

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Education

Degree or equivalent qualification in a relevant discipline

Tools

ISO 9001 principles

Six Sigma

Job description

Job Title:

Quality Inspector

Division:

Quality

Location:

Newcastle-under-Lyme

Reports to:

Quality Manager

Overview:

An established and growing manufacturer of bespoke steel products is seeking a Quality Inspector to join their team in Newcastle-under-Lyme. Operating from a modern, purpose-built facility, the company prides itself on exceptional product quality, technical innovation, and a strong commitment to continuous improvement and employee development. This role offers an excellent opportunity to contribute to a high-performance manufacturing environment where precision, compliance, and customer satisfaction are top priorities.

Main Purpose of the Role:

The Quality Inspector is responsible for verifying and documenting the conformity of incoming materials, in-process components, and finished products against approved specifications, drawings, and quality standards. Acting as the first line of product assurance, the role ensures that only conforming products progress through manufacturing, and that all inspection records and traceability requirements are maintained in line with ISO 9001 and Factory Production Control (FPC) standards.

Scope of the Role:

Working across all stages of production — from goods-in to final inspection — the Quality Inspector will conduct dimensional, visual, and functional checks, identify defects, record nonconformances, and maintain traceability documentation. The position provides data and feedback to support root cause analysis, process improvement, and audit compliance, contributing directly to consistent product quality and customer satisfaction.

Key Responsibilities:

• Inspect and verify products against approved drawings, specifications, and standards before release.
• Identify, segregate, and document nonconforming products, maintaining full traceability.
• Conduct and record inspections at goods-in, in-process, and final stages with accurate, timely documentation.
• Support FPC and ISO 9001 compliance by maintaining inspection and verification records for audits.
• Provide accurate inspection data and feedback to engineering and quality teams.
• Participate in internal audit activities, including planning, execution, reporting, and corrective action follow-up.
• Report on performance metrics in line with departmental KPIs.
• Support the calibration and verification of inspection tools and gauges.
• Lead by example in maintaining the highest standards of safety, quality, and professional conduct.
• Undertake other duties as required to support operational and business objectives.

Performance Indicators:

• 100% calibration compliance for measuring and test equipment.
• Timely and accurate completion of Non-Conformance Reports (NCRs), ensuring 90% closed within 10 working days.
• Compliance with ISO 9001 and FPC requirements (no major audit findings).
• Accuracy and consistency of inspection results, validated through re-inspection or audit sampling.

Additional Responsibilities:

• Provide factual input to continuous improvement and root cause analysis activities.
• Maintain 5S and workplace organisation standards within inspection and production areas.
• Identify opportunities to improve inspection methods or documentation.
• Support training initiatives to improve quality awareness across production teams.
• Assist in internal and external audits by providing inspection records and traceability evidence.

Qualifications, Skills & Experience:

• Degree or equivalent qualification in a relevant discipline.
• Green Belt Six Sigma qualification (preferred).
• Strong understanding of ISO 9001 principles and quality management systems.
• Proven experience in a fast-paced manufacturing or engineering environment.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• High attention to detail, resilience, and a proactive approach.
• Good communication and time management skills.
• Experience in continuous improvement and modern manufacturing processes.
• Ability to work independently and take ownership of tasks to completion.