Quality Engineer

Quality Engineer (NPI / Programme-Based)

Salary: £36,000 - £40,000 + Bi-Annual Performance Bonus

Winsearch is working in partnership with a well‑established and growing aerospace / defence manufacturer to recruit a Quality Engineer to support New Product Introduction (NPI) and programme‑based activity. This role provides an opportunity for a Quality Engineer who enjoys working in a fast‑paced, technically challenging environment, ensuring new products are introduced efficiently, compliantly, and right the first time.

• Support NPI and programme activity, ensuring quality requirements are embedded from initial concept through to production
• Review engineering drawings, specifications and customer requirements to ensure full compliance
• Conduct and support First Article Inspection Reports (FAIR) and associated documentation
• Raise and manage non‑conformances, supporting MRB activity and driving corrective actions
• Manage concession requests and liaise with customers where required
• Support APQP / PPAP processes and documentation
• Carry out and support inspection activities using a range of methods (manual, Keyence, CMM)
• Work closely with Manufacturing and Engineering teams to ensure robust processes are implemented
• Drive continuous improvement activities, identifying waste and improving efficiency
• Ensure adherence to QMS / IMS systems and aerospace / defence standards
• Support internal and external audits where required

• Minimum 3 years' experience in a Quality Engineer role within a manufacturing environment
• Ideally time‑served from an inspection background
• Strong ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and specifications
• Experience working within aerospace, defence or other highly regulated industries
• Good understanding of manufacturing processes from raw material through to finished product
• Experience with FAIR / First Article Inspection, Non‑conformance and MRB processes, Concessions, APQP / PPAP, QMS / IMS systems
• Hands‑on experience with inspection equipment (manual tools, Keyence, CMM)

• Strong problem‑solving ability with a pragmatic, solutions‑focused approach
• Confident decision maker with the ability to work independently
• Continuous improvement mindset with a focus on waste elimination
• Excellent communication skills, able to engage at all levels
• Highly organised with strong attention to detail

• Competitive salary (£36,000–£40,000 DOE)
• Performance bonus paid every six months
• Opportunity to work on cutting‑edge aerospace / defence programmes
• Stable and growing business with long‑term contracts
• Supportive team environment with real scope for development