About Mettis
We design, manufacture and assemble precision forged and machined components at our fully integrated facility in the heart of the UK. Our vision is not only to be the best at what we do but to continually set new standards in the industry by investing and innovating. That’s why we have been pioneers in our industry for over seventy years. We are forging the future today.
About the Role
The Quality Assurance Manager leads and manages the Quality Assurance (QA) function, ensuring external and internal requirements are translated into robust and effective processes within the Mettis Quality Management System and material control framework. The role provides direct leadership of the QA team, driving compliance, ownership of customer escape management, concessions, engineering change control, and First Article Inspection Report (FAIR) generation.
You will ensure the sustainability of corrective actions, improve quality performance across the business, and champion consistent, compliant, and customer-focused quality assurance practices.
All applicants must have the legal Right to Work in the UK.
Successful candidates will undergo Drugs & Alcohol screening at the start of their Mettis employment and may also be subject to random testing throughout their employment.
As a condition of employment, successful candidates are required to fulfil a DBS clearance before commencing this role, to satisfy ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations) compliance.
Responsibilities
Core Responsibilities
* Lead, manage, and develop the QA Engineers, setting objectives and monitoring performance
* Own the 8D process for customer escapes, ensuring robust root cause analysis and sustainable corrective actions
* Manage MRB activities, ensuring timely, compliant disposition of nonconforming material
* Oversee quarantine and concession processes, balancing customer requirements with operational needs
* Manage engineering change control, assessing and mitigating quality risks
* Ensure FAIRs are generated, reviewed, and submitted in accordance with AS9102 and customer requirements
* Provide clear feedback to all areas of the business on audit outcomes, customer escapes, and concession performance
* Promote improvements to the Quality Management System, processes, and facilities to enhance customer service and compliance
* Develop competency frameworks and provide training for QA Engineers, special process engineers, and auditors
* Act as internal approval authority for methods of manufacture, inspection stamp holders, and internal auditors
* Drive continuous improvement initiatives to reduce escapes, concessions, and repeat issues
Processes Used
* Internal and external product and process audits
* Quality data analysis and reporting
* Customer escape management and 8D problem solving
* Material Review Board (MRB) processes
* Quarantine and concession management
* Engineering change control and approvals
* FAIR generation and frequency planning
* Review of international and customer quality/specification requirements
* Quality Management Reviews
Qualifications
* Engineering degree, or relevant experience
* In-depth knowledge of aerospace quality requirements including AS9100, AS9102, and Nadcap
* Background in production techniques and manufacturing engineering
* Experience leading quality assurance teams in a high‑compliance environment
* Deep understanding of MRB, concessions, engineering change, FAIRs, and customer escapes
* Materials engineering and product knowledge relevant to aerospace
* High competence in root cause analysis and quality tools (8D, FMEA, SPC)
* IT skills and experience with quality systems software
* Project planning and management experience
Required Skills
Technical & Professional Competencies
* Health & safety awareness
* Aerospace sector quality requirements
* Production and manufacturing engineering techniques
* Problem solving and structured root cause analysis
* Lean tool deployment and continuous improvement
* Data analysis and reporting
* Quality systems auditing
* Training and competency development
* Strategy deployment and KPI management
* Materials engineering, product knowledge
Leadership & Management Competencies
* Performance management using SMART objectives
* KPI setting, monitoring, and performance improvement
* Coaching, mentoring, and team development
* Excellent communication at all business levels
* Effective decision-making and prioritisation
* Change management and risk-based thinking
* Relationship management and team building
* Action orientation and accountability
* Facilitation and conflict resolution
* Visual management and process confirmation
Job Type: Full-time, Permanent
Location: Redditch, Worcestershire
This job description is not exhaustive and may be reviewed periodically in agreement with the job holder. The postholder must comply with all policies and procedures issued by or on behalf of Mettis Aerospace.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Mettis Aerospace is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all individuals regardless of age, disability, gender identity, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and supported.