Quality Manager – Precision Engineering & Tooling
Location: South Manchester
Salary: Competitive + Benefits
Employment Type: Full-time, Permanent
About the Opportunity
Winsearch is proud to be recruiting on behalf of a highly respected precision engineering and tooling subcontract manufacturer based in South Manchester. Our client is renowned for delivering high-tolerance, high-quality components, tooling, jigs, and fixtures to customers across aerospace, automotive, medical, and advanced manufacturing sectors. Due to continued growth and investment, they are now seeking an experienced Quality Manager to take ownership of the company’s quality function and drive operational excellence.
Role Overview
The Quality Manager will be responsible for the full Quality Management System (QMS), inspection activities, audit processes, and continuous improvement initiatives. This is a hands-on leadership role and ideal for someone with strong knowledge of precision machining, tooling, and metrology who can confidently work with both customers and cross-functional teams.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead and maintain the company’s ISO 9001 QMS (and AS9100 exposure advantageous).
* Oversee first-off, in-process, and final inspection of precision-engineered components.
* Manage and develop a small quality/inspection team, providing guidance and support.
* Conduct internal audits and support external audits with customers and certification bodies.
* Drive root-cause analysis and corrective actions (8D, 5-Why, Ishikawa).
* Ensure calibration control of gauges, tooling, and metrology equipment.
* Collaborate with production, engineering, and tooling departments to ensure dimensional conformance.
* Champion continuous improvement and lean initiatives across the shop floor.
* Review and control engineering drawings, customer specifications, and quality documentation.
* Support APQP, PPAP, FAIRs, and customer-specific compliance requirements.
* Prepare and present quality performance reports to senior management.
Skills & Experience Required
* Proven experience as a Quality Manager or Senior Quality Engineer within precision machining, toolmaking, or CNC manufacturing.
* Strong understanding of tight-tolerance engineering, machining processes, and GD&T.
* Solid experience with ISO 9001 auditing; AS9100 knowledge is highly beneficial.
* Competent in metrology and measurement systems; CMM experience desirable.
* Strong communicator with the ability to influence, lead, and build positive internal and external relationships.
* Highly organised, detail-focused, and proactive in driving improvements.
What’s on Offer
* Competitive salary depending on experience
* Company benefits package
* Opportunity to join a stable, well-invested, and growing engineering business
* Long-term career progression and development opportunities
* Supportive team environment with modern manufacturing facilities