Quality Engineer

Job description

Quality Engineer

£35,000 – £40,000 (DOE)

Derby

Are you a hands-on problem solver from a high-reliability engineering environment? Do you take ownership of root cause analysis, implement robust corrective actions, and operate confidently on the shop floor?

This is not an inspection role. It is a position for someone who can lead structured problem-solving, drive meaningful corrective action, and uphold high standards within a precision manufacturing setting.

The Role

We are seeking a technically strong individual to take ownership of quality issues from identification through to verified resolution, ensuring minimal customer impact at all times.

While the title is Quality Engineer, we are equally open to Production Engineers, Manufacturing Engineers, Quality Specialists or similar engineering professionals, provided you possess the core problem-solving capability and high-reliability manufacturing experience required. Job titles can be misleading; capability is what matters.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead Root Cause Analysis using 8D, 5 Whys, Ishikawa and FMEA
• Implement and verify corrective and preventive actions (not simply raise them)
• Manage customer returns and supplier corrective actions
• Interpret and confidently read engineering drawings and specifications
• Support new product introductions to ensure robust builds
• Work closely with production teams to resolve shop-floor issues
• Conduct internal audits (AS9100 / AS13100)
• Manage and process calibration activities (approx. 25% of role post-training)
• Write and amend procedures and work instructions
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives
• Ensure compliance with internal quality systems
• Processing items for calibration
• Managing calibrated gauges, instruments, CMMs, oven controls and liaising with third-party calibration providers.

What We’re Looking For

Essential

• Proven Root Cause Analysis experience (8D, 5 Whys, Ishikawa, FMEA)
• Demonstrable track record of implementing corrective actions
• Experience within high-reliability manufacturing (Aerospace, Automotive, Engineering or similar)
• Strong ability to read and interpret engineering drawings
• Hands-on shop-floor credibility
• Previous experience in a QE or engineering role with equivalent responsibility
• High level of attention to detail — your CV should clearly reflect your experience

Desirable

• AS9100 internal audit experience
• Knowledge of Continuous Improvement methodologies

Auditing and calibration systems can be further developed; structured problem-solving capability and technical credibility are the priority.

Working Hours

Choose from:

• 7:00am–4:00pm (Mon–Thurs) & 7:00am–12:00pm (Fri)
• or
• 8:00am–5:00pm (Mon–Thurs) & 8:00am–1:00pm (Fri)

Early Friday finishes every week.

Why Apply?

• Genuine ownership of quality performance
• High-impact role within a precision engineering environment
• Strong focus on structured problem-solving and continuous improvement
• Broader exposure to quality systems and compliance
• Development and progression opportunities
• Early Friday finishes

Extra information

Status

Open

Education Level

Secondary School

Location

Derby

Type of Contract

Full-time jobs

Published at

07-03-2026

Full UK/EU driving license preferred

No

Car Preferred

No

Must be eligible to work in the EU

No

Cover Letter Required

No

Languages

English