SPQA - Special Process, Quality Assurance Lead

Safran; Pontypool; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Safran in the UK is seeking a Quality Assurance Lead for Special Processes to define and lead QA across development, sustaining programs and the external supply chain. You will own audits, coordinate with internal functions, and ensure compliance with AS9100/other standards.

The role requires engagement with Customers, Suppliers, and regulatory bodies, driving continuous improvement and health/safety adherence within a UK aerospace context.

Qualifications

• Degree level or equivalent in an engineering/manufacturing discipline.
• Lean/6 Sigma knowledge and general improvement tools.
• Experience with auditing Special Processes.
• Knowledge of health, safety and environment rules applicable to Special Processes.

Responsibilities

• Develop and sustain the SGB Special Processes management framework across the company scope.
• Deliver Special Process Quality Assurance audit plan for internal and external suppliers.
• Coordinate audits and qualification surveillance with other audit actors.
• Approve and monitor internal and supplier Special Processes audit activity.
• Lead Special Processes reviews with Subject Matter Experts.
• Monitor KPIs for Special Processes quality (DPU, SNCRs, etc.).

Skills

Auditing

Stakeholder management

6 Sigma

8D analysis

Regulatory compliance

Education

Engineering degree

Tools

ETQ

NADCAP

Job description

The purpose of this role is to define and lead the implementation of all aspects of Special Processes Quality Assurance in development and sustaining phases of programs at Seats GB for both the internal and external Supply Chain. You'll act as a liaison with SST and cross-BU on all aspects of Special Processes to ensure harmonisation and compliance. As Quality Assurance Lead, you'll own and manage all Special Processes Quality Assurance operations (on-site / MRO / external supply chain). It's a unique opportunity where you'll interact with Customers, Suppliers and Regulatory Bodies on all matters associated with Special Processes, acting as the primary focal point and lead for the UK business.,

• In liaison with SST, other BUs and internal Functions as required, develop and sustain the SGB Special Processes management framework across the company scope
• Deliver Special Process Quality Assurance audit plan for both internal and external suppliers
• Be familiar with and apply hygiene, safety, and environmental instructions with specific focus on (but not only to) Special Processes
• Perform qualification audits (or surveillance actions), and coordinate other audit actors, e.g. SQA or M&P, to implement the qualification surveillance plan
• Ensure requirements for auditor qualifications are understood, and captured using ETQ to manage certification requirements
• Coordinate stakeholders from different functions and ensure compliance with the defined approach, e.g. SQA, M&P, IND
• Approve and monitor internal and supplier Special Processes undertaking audit activity
• Coordinate all stakeholders from the different sectors and ensure compliance with the defined approach
• Organize and lead Special Processes reviews with Subject Matter Experts
• Manage and monitor Special Process quality KPIs (DPU's, SNCRs, etc) and support
  Degree level or equivalent in an Engineering / Manufacturing related discipline.
• Lean / 6 Sigma knowledge and general improvement tools
• Mechanical / Electrical Engineering knowledge
• Preferred AS9100 Lead Assessor, EASA Part 21/145, NADCAP
• Quality Rules: experience of internal/external quality standards and ability to identify non-conformity
• Knowledge of Special Process Health and Safety rules applicable to the scope 8D analysis, problem solving skills and report writing (inc analysis and decision making)
• Proven experience within a similar role / environment at a management level

We know that some candidates may be put off applying for jobs where they don't meet 100% of the criteria outlined in the advert. We encourage anybody to apply if you can demonstrate a variety of skills and experience relevant to the requirements of this role. We celebrate our differences and believe they make us stronger. We know that a fulfilling work environment is a key driver for innovative ideas and team success.

At Safran, excellence is a journey - and we'd love you to be a part of it. As a trusted global leader in aerospace, defence, and space, we are proud to be a company where diversity, innovation, and opportunity come together to shape a sustainable future where we can all succeed together through a shared vision. Safran is an international high-technology group operating in the fields of aerospace (propulsion, equipment and interiors), space and defense. Its mission is to contribute sustainably to a safer world, where air transport becomes ever more environmentally friendly, comfortable and accessible. Present on every continent, Safran was ranked second in the Aerospace & Defense sector in TIME magazine's ''World's Best Companies 2025'' ranking.