QUALITY ENGINEER - LEAN MANUFACTURING
Thatcham Berkshire | Office Based | Full Time | Permanent
Step into a role where your decisions genuinely shape quality on the shop floor and out in the field. As our Quality Engineer in a fast-paced lean manufacturing environment, you will be the go-to expert for turning data into action, driving Right First Time performance, and eliminating waste across production and installation.
You will play a pivotal role in ensuring the highest standards of quality are maintained throughout the production and installation process. Working closely with cross-functional teams, you will identify, analyse and resolve quality issues, while driving robust improvements in processes, products, and supplier performance. This position requires strong knowledge and practical experience in data analysis, problem-solving, and the implementation of lean manufacturing principles to optimise quality and efficiency.
If you bring 3–5 years’ quality engineering experience in lean manufacturing (ideally transport, infrastructure or automotive), are data driven and fluent in Excel/Minitab or similar, this is a role where you can truly move the needle.
PRINCIPLE DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
* Data Analysis & Reporting: Collect, analyse and interpret quality data from the production line, installations, suppliers, and internal departments to drive improvements in product quality, production efficiency, and overall process performance.
* Problem Solving: Identify root causes of quality issues and lead corrective actions using structured problem-solving techniques (e.g. 8D, 5 Whys, Fishbone diagrams, FMEA).
* Continuous Improvement: Drive initiatives to continuously improve product quality, reduce waste and enhance manufacturing processes through the application of lean principles (e.g., Kaizen, 3S, TPM).
* Supplier Performance Management: Monitor and evaluate supplier performance, including quality audits, data analysis, and collaboration to resolve quality issues. Work closely with procurement and suppliers to ensure that products meet the required specifications.
* Internal Metrics Management: Track and report on internal quality metrics such as Right First Time (RFT), Scrap rate, Rework rate, etc. and other key performance indicators (KPIs). Develop action plans for areas that are underperforming and implement corrective and preventive actions.
* Quality Control: Ensure compliance with product specifications and assist with creation where needed, safety standards, and regulatory requirements. Perform product inspections, audits, supplier audits and quality checks during various stages of production.
* Training & Support: Provide training to production teams and other departments on quality standards, process improvements, and lean practices. Assist in the development of quality documentation and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
* Cross-functional Collaboration: Work closely with engineering, production and supply chain teams to ensure seamless execution of quality standards across the product lifecycle.
* Project Leadership: Lead or participate in cross-functional projects aimed at improving product quality, reducing defects and increasing operational efficiency
QUALIFICATIONS/EXPERIENCE
ESSENTIAL
* Minimum 3-5 years if experience in a quality engineering role within quality engineering role within a lean manufacturing environment, preferably in the transportation, infrastructure or automotive industry.
* Proven experience with data analysis, root cause analysis and problem-solving methodologies (e.g., 8D, Six Sigma, FMEA, SPC).
* Strong knowledge of lean manufacturing principles, continuous improvement processes and quality management systems (e.g., ISO 9001).
* Proficiency in data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, Minitab, or similar) and the ability to create and interpret statistical reports.
* Experience with quality metrics such as RFT, scrap rate, and rework rate, with a track record of improving these KPIs.
* Strong communication skills with the ability to work collaboratively across functions and present complex data in an understandable way.
* Detail-oriented, proactive and able to manage multiple projects & deadlines simultaneously.
DESIREABLE
* Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt or similar.
* Lean Manufacturing or Kaizen certification.
* ISO 9001 Internal Auditor certification.
WHAT WE OFFER
* £36-£44k annual salary and performance-related bonus
* Company pension and life assurance
* Private medical and wellbeing support
* Generous holiday entitlement
* Training and professional development opportunities
* Qualification-linked pay progression