Quality Engineer Colchester, Essex | Security Clearance Required (BPSS) About the role Woods Air Movement, part of FläktGroup, is seeking an experienced Quality Engineer to join our growing Defence team based in Colchester. Reporting to the Lead Quality Engineer, this is a key role supporting the delivery of strategic defence contracts. You’ll play a central part in ensuring product and supplier quality, driving continuous improvement, and embedding a right‑first‑time / zero‑defect culture across the business. This is an excellent opportunity for a proactive Quality Engineer who enjoys working cross‑functionally in a regulated manufacturing environment and wants to make a visible impact in a business with long‑term growth plans. About Woods Air Movement Woods Air Movement specialises in the design, testing, certification and manufacture of axial fans for industrial and life‑critical applications. We hold one of the largest certified axial fan ranges in the world, offering high levels of product customisation to deliver maximum value for our customers. Our work is guided by our values of Ambition, Accountability, Entrepreneurship and Teamwork. Key responsibilities Ensure products meet contractual, regulatory and customer requirements through effective contract reviews and creation of Inspection & Test Plans (ITPs) Monitor and assure quality of internally and externally manufactured components Lead internal, supplier and customer 8D investigations Work collaboratively with suppliers to resolve quality issues and prevent re‑occurrence Conduct regular supplier and customer visits to review quality performance Analyse production quality data, identify trends, and implement corrective actions Maintain and manage the Supplier Scorecard and associated monitoring systems Support New Product Introduction (NPI) and Process FMEA activities Conduct Internal Audits in line with ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 Host and support external audits, inspections and customer visits Promote continuous improvement across the organisation What we’re looking for Essential: HNC or Degree in an Engineering discipline, relevant Quality qualification, or equivalent experience Minimum 5 years’ experience in a manufacturing quality role (defence programmes preferred) Strong working knowledge of APQP, PPAP, ITPs or Control Plans Experience using quality tools such as 8D and Six Sigma (Green Belt level) ISO 9001 Lead Auditor Confident communicator with the ability to influence across multiple teams Proactive, organised, and solutions‑focused Security requirement: You must be able to pass Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) clearance. What we offer Competitive salary 25 days holiday plus bank holidays Hybrid working Christmas shutdown 4% pension scheme Life assurance Company sick pay scheme Enhanced family‑friendly benefits Holiday purchase scheme Employee discount scheme Cycle to Work scheme Early finish on Fridays Free tea & coffee Free on‑site parking Employee Assistance Programme & mental health support Woods Sports & Social Club (optional) Learning & development opportunities Long service awards Equality, diversity & right to work We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all backgrounds and communities. Please note: due to sponsorship limitations, we are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this role. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK. No recruitment agencies please. LI-MA1