Quality Engineer (Plant & Supplier) - Contract
North Oxfordshire
Are you a proactive Quality Engineer who thrives in fast‑paced environments and enjoys solving problems at the root?
We're looking for two hands‑on Quality Engineers to join a major manufacturing and engineering programme in North Oxfordshire. This is an opportunity to be part of a cutting‑edge operation driving large‑scale change and continual improvement across both plant and supplier activities.
The Role
As a Quality Engineer, you will play a key part in ensuring product quality across the entire manufacturing and supply chain process. You'll work with Manufacturing Engineering, Procurement, Programme Management and external suppliers to drive robust problem resolution, strong production controls and ongoing quality improvements.
This is a role for someone who doesn't wait to be told - someone who spots issues early, takes ownership and drives solutions with urgency.
What You'll Be Doing
Manufacturing & Plant Quality
Manage non‑conformance, containment, incident investigations and root‑cause analysis (8D, 5 Why, DMAIC, PDCA).
Support production with Control Plans, Inspection Plans and quality documentation.
Contribute to DFMEA, PFMEA, DfX and virtual build activities.
Oversee in‑line inspection equipment, capability studies and Gauge R&R.
Support audits, kaizen activities and stock containment when required.
Supplier Quality
Lead supplier assessments, audits, visits and development activities.
Drive permanent corrective actions for supplier‑related issues.
Monitor supplier performance and support onboarding of new suppliers.
Act as the main point of contact for quality concerns within the supply base.
Support APQP/PPAP and engineering change activities.
Quality Systems & Continuous Improvement
Ensure compliance with ISO9001, IATF16949 and other relevant standards.
Develop quality KPIs and support leadership reporting.
Maintain documentation and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
Work closely with Quality Inspectors to track RFT and top issues.
About You
HNC/Degree in Engineering or related discipline.
Experience in plant quality, supplier quality or a combined manufacturing quality role.
Strong knowledge of problem‑solving tools (8D, 5 Why, DMAIC, Ishikawa, Lean, Kaizen, 5S).
Experience with APQP/PPAP processes.
Ability to interpret technical drawings and develop measurement plans.
Familiar with inspection equipment, capability studies and Gauge R&R.
Excellent communicator and strong cross-functional collaborator.
Willingness to travel to suppliers when required.
A proactive, hands‑on mindset with the ability to prioritise based on risk.
Why Apply?
Work on meaningful, innovative engineering programmes.
Blend plant and supplier quality responsibilities for a varied, impactful role.
Join a fast‑paced environment where your ideas and actions can drive real change.
Be part of a high‑performing team shaping the future of manufacturing processes