Trainee Quality Inspector

Placr Recruitment; Waldron; On-site; GBP 22,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

Our client in East Sussex is seeking a Trainee Quality Inspector to join its specialist manufacturing team in Lower Dicker. You'll receive hands-on training in inspecting precision-engineered components, reading drawings and using advanced measuring equipment such as CMM and Faro Arm.

Ideal candidates are Mechanical Engineering graduates with keen attention to detail and a genuine interest in quality control and manufacturing.

Qualifications

• ONC, HNC, degree or equivalent in Mechanical/Manufacturing Engineering.
• Ability to read technical drawings.
• Understanding of geometric tolerancing and tight tolerances.
• Interest in precision engineering and quality control.
• Familiarity with handheld measuring equipment.
• Ability to follow documented processes and instructions.
• Strong Excel and Word skills.
• Clear communication and methodical approach.
• Willingness to learn.

Responsibilities

• Inspecting components against drawings and specifications.
• Measuring precision components at CNC machines, including first-off inspections.
• Reading engineering drawings with complex datum points and GD&T.
• Using CMM and Faro Arm and handheld metrology equipment.
• Maintaining inspection records and ERP/quality-management systems.
• Communicating inspection findings to team leaders.
• Developing technical skills for progression within the company.

Skills

Reading drawings

Geometric tolerancing

Quality control mindset

Attention to detail

Communication

Team collaboration

Learning mindset

Education

ONC/HNC/degree in Mechanical/Manufacturing Engineering

Tools

CMM

Faro Arm

Micrometers

Verniers

Plug gauges

Job description

Trainee Quality Inspector / Engineering Graduate

Lower Dicker, East Sussex | Full-time | Permanent | Salary dependent on experience

Are you a Mechanical Engineering graduate or an early-career engineer looking to build a career in quality inspection?

Our client is looking for a Trainee Quality Inspector to join its specialist manufacturing team in Lower Dicker. You'll receive hands-on training in inspecting precision-engineered components, interpreting technical drawings and using advanced measuring equipment, including CMM and Faro Arm technology.

This is a genuine development opportunity for someone with strong technical foundations, excellent attention to detail and a real interest in quality and manufacturing.

What You'll Be Learning

• Inspecting components against engineering drawings and specifications
• Measuring precision components at CNC machines, including first-off inspections
• Reading detailed engineering drawings featuring complex datum points and geometric tolerancing
• Using CMM, Faro Arm and a wide range of handheld metrology equipment
• Working with micrometers, verniers, thread gauges and plug gauges
• Identifying components that do not meet the required specification
• Completing Product Identification Forms for non-conforming items
• Clearly communicating inspection findings to relevant team leaders
• Maintaining accurate and easily accessible inspection records
• Using the company's ERP and quality-management systems
• Developing an understanding of quality and process-management tools
• Building the technical skills needed to progress within the company

What We're Looking For

• An ONC, HNC, degree or equivalent qualification in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering or a related discipline
• A basic or intermediate ability to read technical drawings
• Some understanding of geometric tolerancing and working to tight tolerances
• An interest in precision engineering, manufacturing and quality control
• Some familiarity with handheld measuring or inspection equipment
• The ability to follow documented processes and instructions
• Good Microsoft Office skills, particularly Excel and Word
• Strong attention to detail and a methodical approach
• Clear communication skills and the confidence to work with different teams
• A positive attitude and a genuine willingness to learn

Relevant experience gained through university projects, apprenticeships, placements, workshops or previous employment will all be considered.

It Would Be an Advantage If You Have

• Experience within a CNC machine shop or manufacturing environment
• Familiarity with CMM or Faro Arm equipment
• Knowledge of SPC, AQL, gauge R&R or equipment calibration
• An understanding of engineering finishing and subcontract processes
• Knowledge of welding or fabrication
• Previous exposure to the vacuum industry
• Experience using an ERP system

Occasional Travel

The role may occasionally involve attending client meetings or site visits. Travel will be arranged in advance wherever possible, and reasonable expenses will be covered.

Why Apply?

This is an opportunity to start or develop your career within a highly technical manufacturing environment. You'll receive practical training, work with specialist inspection technology and gain valuable experience across engineering, quality and production.

For someone eager to learn and progress, this could be a brilliant first step into a long-term quality engineering career.