Quality Manager

NAVANTIA UK; Stornoway; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading British defence contractor based in Stornoway is seeking a Quality Manager to oversee the Quality Management System (QMS) for their fabrication yard operations. The role involves ensuring compliance with standards such as ISO 9001, leading QA/QC teams, and driving continuous improvement initiatives. Candidates should have a degree in engineering, relevant certifications, and proven experience in QA/QC leadership. This position offers a chance to contribute to state-of-the-art defence capabilities in the UK.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in QA/QC leadership within fabrication environments.
• Strong familiarity with offshore structures and fabrication codes.
• Experience working with major EPC or oil & gas clients.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the Quality Management System (QMS) ensuring compliance.
• Lead internal and external audits to resolve non-conformances.
• Supervise and mentor QA/QC engineers and inspectors.

Skills

QA/QC leadership

Non-destructive testing (NDT)

Lean and Six Sigma principles

Education

Degree in Mechanical, Metallurgical, or Welding Engineering (or equivalent)

ISO 9001:2015 Lead Auditor certification

CSWIP 3.1/3.2 or AWS-CWI

NDT Level II/III (preferred)

Job description

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Company Description

Navantia UK is a new force in British industry, supporting the UK's defence, security and energy transition ambitions. We’re doing this by creating state‑of‑the‑art sovereign defence capabilities, investing in the UK to modernise industrial facilities, and bolstering the nation's energy security. Established in 2022, Navantia UK is a subsidiary of Navantia SA, a Spanish state‑owned company with over 300 years of naval shipbuilding history. In January 2025, Navantia UK completed the acquisition of Harland & Wolff and its four historic facilities in Belfast, Appledore, Methilχής and Arnish. By combining Harland & Wolff’s proud heritage and facilities with Navantia’s global expertise, Navantia UK is well‑positioned to strengthen Britain’s defence, maritime and energy industrial capabilities, supporting jobs and economic growth across the UK.

Job Description

We’re seeking a skilled Quality Manager to provide maternity cover within our fabrication yard operations. This is a high‑impact leadership role where you’ll oversee the Quality Management System (QMS), ensuring all fabrication, welding, coating, assembly, and testing activities meet the highest standards of compliance and performance. You’ll lead a dedicated QA/QC team and drive continuous improvement across all disciplines.

What You’ll Be Doing

Quality Management System

• Maintain and enhance the QMS in line with ISO 9001 and project‑specific quality plans
• Ensure documentation control and process adherence across fabrication activities
• Lead internal and external audits zbog timely resolution of non‑conformances

Fabrication Quality Control

• Oversee inspection and testing (welding, NDT, coatings, fit‑up, hydrotesting)
• Approve and maintain ITPs, Method Statements, and QC procedures
• Ensure compliance with ASME, AWS, API, and other relevant standards

Team Leadership

• Supervise and mentor QA/QC engineers, inspectors, and document controllers
• Allocate inspection resources and monitor performance
• Foster a culture of quality, accountability, and continuous learning

Vendor & Subcontractor Oversight

• Evaluate and approve vendors/subcontractors based on quality capability
• Conduct audits and surveillance visits to ensure contractual compliance

Client & Project Interface

• Act as the primary contact for quality‑related matters with clients and third‑party inspectors
• Prepare and present quality performance reports to stakeholders

Continuous Improvement

• Analyse non‑conformance trends and implement corrective/preventive actions
• Promote Lean and Six Sigma principles to enhance efficiency and product quality

Qualifications

What You’ll Bring

Education & Certifications

• Degree in Mechanical, Metallurgical, or Welding Engineering (or equivalent)
• ISO 9001:2015 Lead Auditor certification
• CSWIP 3.1/3.2 or AWS‑CWI, and NDT Level II/III (preferred)

Experience & Expertise

• Proven experience in QA/QC leadership within fabrication environments
• Strong familiarity with offshore structures, pressure vessels, piping, and modular fabrication
• Deep understanding of fabrication codes and standards (ASME, API, AWS, DNV, ISO)
• Experience working with major EPC or oil & gas clients

Additional Information

Equal Opportunity: We are dedicated to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. To ensure equal opportunities for all candidates, we commit to a fair and unbiased recruitment process at every stage. This includes ensuring hiring managers are aware of legislation, providing reasonable accommodations for candidates ತಿಂ disabilities, and actively seeking to eliminate any form of discrimination based on race, gender, age, religion, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic. Our goal is to create a recruitment environment where every candidate feels valued and has an equal chance to succeed.

If you experience difficulties or are unable to apply for a role online please contact us at [e-mail] and one of the team will be in contact to help you.