Job Title: Quality Assurance Controller
Reports To: Supplier Quality Engineer (Interim Head of Procurement)
Location: Bedford
Department: Procurement
Department Lead: Head of Procurement
Salary: £35,000 - £40,000 per annum
Role Overview
The Quality Assurance Controller is responsible for ensuring that all inbound stock meets required specifications, standards, and compliance criteria. This role plays a pivotal part in supporting on-site supplier product approvals, maintaining consistent product quality, and strengthening supplier partnerships. The ideal candidate will have experience in the Print or Packaging industry, with a strong background in quality assurance, process adherence, and documentation management.
Key Responsibilities
* Inspect and verify all inbound deliveries against product specifications, purchase orders, and quality standards, including visual, dimensional, and functional checks.
* Accurately document inspection findings, escalate non-conformances, and maintain detailed records of inspections, test results, and supplier performance trends.
* Collaborate with Operations and Procurement teams to manage quarantined or rejected stock.
* Support on-site supplier visits and product approval processes, including testing, documentation review, and sample evaluation.
* Assist suppliers in understanding product requirements, quality expectations, and compliance standards.
* Track supplier performance metrics and contribute to supplier review meetings, ensuring approved supplier products are accurately documented within internal systems.
* Identify recurring quality issues and work with the Supplier Quality Engineer and Procurement team to implement corrective and preventative actions.
* Support updates to product specifications, testing procedures, and quality documentation.
* Contribute ideas to improve inbound inspection workflows and overall quality assurance processes.
Note: This job description is not exhaustive, and the post holder may be required to perform other related duties as reasonably assigned.
Requirements
* Previous experience in a quality control, inspection, or similar role, ideally within the Packaging or Print industry.
* Strong understanding of product specifications, testing methods, and quality assurance principles.
* Excellent attention to detail with a methodical and systematic approach.
* Effective verbal and written communication skills for liaising with suppliers and internal teams.
* Competent in using inspection tools and basic measurement equipment.
* Ability to maintain accurate records and follow established procedures.
* Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment with changing priorities.
* Demonstrates a positive, proactive, and collaborative attitude.
* Strong organizational and customer service skills.
* Proficient in MS Office and other relevant software.
* Packaging industry QA experience is highly desirable.
Benefits
* £35,000 - £40,000 per annum, depending on experience
* 23 days annual leave + bank holidays
* Medicash health cashback plan
* Life insurance
* Free snacks and beverages
* Catered lunches twice per week
* ½ day off for birthday (added to annual leave entitlement)
* Free on-site parking with electric charging points