Supplier Quality Engineer

Description
As a Supplier Quality Engineer, you will be responsible for assuring the quality of products and services supplied by external suppliers, ensuring full compliance with organisational, customer, and regulatory requirements. You will drive supplier quality performance through effective quality management processes, audits, supplier development activities, and cross‑functional collaboration.

This is a pivotal role in protecting the integrity of the supply chain and ensuring that end products consistently meet the high standards expected by customers and stakeholders, particularly within a regulated defence environment.

The role requires significant travel across the UK (approximately 60%). While it reports to the Operational Quality Manager based at the Portsmouth site, the position could also be suited to an individual located in the North of the UK to better support travel requirements.

Key Responsibilities
1. Supplier Quality Management

Develop, implement, and maintain supplier quality management systems and processes.

Establish and communicate supplier quality standards, specifications, and quality plans.

Ensure supplier compliance with contractual, regulatory, and organisational requirements.
2. Supplier Evaluation and Selection

Evaluate and support the selection of suppliers based on quality, cost, delivery, and service performance.

Conduct supplier capability assessments and approval activities.

Manage material quality for Stainless Steel, Aluminium, and Carbon Steel supply chains.
3. Audits & Inspections

Plan and conduct supplier audits and manufacturing process assessments.

Perform product and process inspections including dimensional, trial, final, and FAIR inspections.

Identify, document, and manage non‑conformances, driving effective corrective and preventive actions.
4. Supplier Development

Work in partnership with suppliers to improve quality performance and capability.

Provide technical guidance, quality support, and training where required.

Support continuous improvement initiatives across the supply base.
5. Quality Metrics & Reporting

Monitor, analyse, and report supplier quality performance (e.g. defect rates, on‑time delivery).

Prepare quality performance reports for internal stakeholders and senior management.

Use data‑driven insight to identify trends and improvement opportunities.
6. Collaboration & Communication

Work closely with Procurement, Engineering, Production, and Operations teams.

Clearly communicate quality expectations, requirements, and feedback to suppliers.

Act as the quality escalation point for supplier‑related issues.
7. Continuous Improvement

Identify opportunities to improve supplier quality processes, systems, and performance.

Stay current with industry best practice, standards, and regulatory developments. Education & Qualifications

Degree in Engineering, Quality Management, or a related discipline or equivalent apprenticeship qualification  - CSWIP 3.0 / 3.1 / 3.2 to BS EN ISO 17637

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

Substantial experience in Supplier Quality Engineering or a closely related role

Proven experience working within the defence sector

Strong understanding of defence regulatory requirements, including:
DEFSTAN, DEFCON, QASOR
Technical Skills & Knowledge

Quality Management Systems: ISO 9001, AS9100, AS9102

Supplier auditing, assessments, and corrective action management

Visual welding inspection, NDT, VT

PCN Level 1 and/or AWS certification

Creation and interpretation of ITPs, MITPs, QCPs

Experience with Stainless Steel, Aluminium, and Carbon Steel fabrications

Ability to read and interpret 3D models, DWF, STEP files, and PDFs

Proficiency in quality tools and systems (e.g. Minitab, SAP QM)

Familiarity with ERP and MRP systems

Certifications (Desirable)

AS9100 / ISO 9001 Lead Auditor
Six Sigma or other recognised quality improvement certifications

Skills and Attributes

High attention to detail and accuracy

Strong analytical and problem‑solving capability

Confident, clear communicator with strong interpersonal and influencing skills

Assertive, resilient, and adaptable to change

Highly organised with the ability to manage multiple priorities

Collaborative team player who actively…