Company Description
Navantia UK is a new force in British industry, supporting the UK’s defence, security and energy transition ambitions. We’re doing this by creating state‑of‑the‑art sovereign defence capabilities, investing in the UK to modernise industrial facilities, and bolstering the nation’s energy security. Established in 2022, Navantia UK is a subsidiary of Navantia SA, a Spanish state‑owned company with over 300 years of naval shipbuilding history. In January 2025, Navantia UK completed the acquisition of Harland & Wolff and its four historic facilities in Belfast, Appledore, Methil and Arnish. By combining Harland & Wolff’s proud heritage and facilities with Navantia’s global expertise, Navantia UK is well‑positioned to strengthen Britain’s defence, maritime and energy industrial capabilities, supporting jobs and economic growth across the UK.
Job Description
We’re seeking a skilled Quality Manager to provide maternity cover within our fabrication yard operations. This is a high‑impact leadership role where you’ll oversee the Quality Management System (QMS), ensuring all fabrication, welding, coating, assembly and testing activities meet the highest standards of compliance and performance. You’ll lead a dedicated QA/QC team and drive continuous improvement across all disciplines.
What You’ll Be Doing
Quality Management System
* Maintain and enhance the QMS in line with ISO 9001 and project‑specific quality plans.
* Ensure documentation control and process adherence across fabrication activities.
* Lead internal and external audits and ensure timely resolution of non‑conformances.
Fabrication Quality Control
* Oversee inspection and testing (welding, NDT, coatings, fit‑up, hydrotesting).
* Approve and maintain ITPs, Method Statements and QC procedures.
* Ensure compliance with ASME, AWS, API and other relevant standards.
Team Leadership
* Supervise and mentor QA/QC engineers, inspectors and document controllers.
* Allocate inspection resources and monitor performance.
* Foster a culture of quality, accountability and continuous learning.
Vendor & Subcontractor Oversight
* Evaluate and approve vendors/subcontractors based on quality capability.
* Conduct audits and surveillance visits to ensure contractual compliance.
Client & Project Interface
* Act as the primary contact for quality‑related matters with clients and third‑party inspectors.
* Prepare and present quality performance reports to stakeholders.
Continuous Improvement
* Analyse non‑conformance trends and implement corrective/preventive actions.
* Promote Lean and Six Sigma principles to enhance efficiency and product quality.
Qualifications
Education & Certifications
* Degree in Mechanical, Metallurgical or Welding Engineering (or equivalent).
* ISO 9001:2015 Lead Auditor certification.
* CSWIP 3.1/3.2 or AWS‑CWI, and NDT Level II/III (preferred).
Experience & Expertise
* Proven experience in QA/QC leadership within fabrication environments.
* Strong familiarity with offshore structures, pressure vessels, piping and modular fabrication.
* Deep understanding of fabrication codes and standards (ASME, API, AWS, DNV, ISO).
* Experience working with major EPC or oil & gas clients.
Equal Opportunity
We are dedicated to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. To ensure equal opportunities for all candidates, we commit to a fair and unbiased recruitment process at every stage. This includes ensuring hiring managers are aware of legislation, providing reasonable accommodations for candidates with disabilities and actively seeking to eliminate any form of discrimination based on race, gender, age, religion, sexual orientation or other protected characteristics.
If you experience difficulties applying online, please contact us at people.skills@harland-wolff.com. One of our team members will reach out to help you.
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