Senior Quality Engineer High-Performance Engineering SME Defence, Medical, Oil & Gas Are you an experienced Quality Engineer who’s ready to step out of the background and genuinely shape how quality is delivered? This is an opportunity to join a highly respected SME engineering business where quality is not just a function — it’s central to reputation, customer trust, and product performance in some of the most demanding environments in the world. If you’re looking for autonomy, influence, and a clear route into a future Quality Manager position within around 2 years, this role has been built for you. Why this role stands out You won’t be a cog in a large corporate machine here. Instead, you’ll take ownership of quality across production and supply chain operations, working directly with engineering and leadership teams to improve how things are done — not just monitor them. You’ll also have the opportunity to mentor and develop a junior team member, with scope to grow and shape a wider quality function as the business expands. About the business This is a specialist UK engineering manufacturer producing robust, high-reliability transport solutions used in a range of demanding technical and regulated environments. Their products are designed for use in situations where durability, consistency, and performance are critical, often operating in challenging or mission-critical conditions. As a result, quality and precision are embedded into every stage of design and manufacture. What you’ll be doing This is a hands-on, influential role covering inspection, compliance, problem-solving, and continuous improvement: Owning in-process and final inspection of components and finished assemblies Working from engineering drawings, CAD data, and technical specifications Using precision measuring equipment to verify tolerances and build quality Making clear decisions on product acceptance and non-conformance Driving ISO 9001:2015 compliance and supporting audit activity Leading root cause investigations and implementing CAPA activity Improving manufacturing processes to reduce defects and improve reliability Analysing quality trends to prevent recurring issues Supporting and developing supplier quality performance Maintaining accurate quality records, reports, and traceability data What makes someone successful here We’re looking for someone who doesn’t just “check quality” — but improves it. You’ll likely be someone who has: Experience in a Quality Engineer / Quality Inspector / Manufacturing Quality role Strong ability to interpret engineering drawings and technical data Confidence using precision measurement tools (gauges, calipers, micrometers, etc.) Solid understanding of ISO 9001 environments A structured, methodical approach to problem solving Experience with root cause analysis tools (e.g. 5 Whys, Ishikawa) Strong attention to detail and ownership mindset Bonus experience (not essential) Defence, aerospace, or rugged/industrial manufacturing background Exposure to RoHS / REACH / IP-rated product environments Six Sigma or continuous improvement methodologies ERP/MRP quality systems experience What’s on offer A genuinely influential role in a growing SME engineering business Real autonomy to improve systems, processes, and quality standards Opportunity to mentor and develop others Clear progression pathway into Quality Manager (circa 2 years) Competitive salary (depending on experience) 25 days holiday bank holidays Company pension Ongoing training and development support If you’re ready to take ownership, influence change, and step into leadership — this is where that path starts, hit "APPLY NOW