Quality Lead

Quality Lead – Precision Manufacturing Sector Based in Hertfordshire Salary: £50,000 plus a range of highly attractive employee benefits A new permanent career opportunity has arisen working for a global engineering leader who excels in the production of high‑accuracy, precision manufactured parts and products. This job role seeks a hands‑on Quality Leader who can take full ownership of the Quality Management System and champion a culture where robust processes, reliable data, and right‑first‑time output are considered standard practice. Ideally suited to a professional Qualityu Manager who thrives on the shop floor, enjoys solving complex machining challenges, and can confidently represent the business to customers and auditors. Key responsibilities Customer & Product Quality * Act as the main point of contact for all customer quality matters, from initial containment through to verified corrective actions. * Lead structured investigations using 8D, A3, 5‑Why and other analytical tools to eliminate repeat issues. * Manage all quality submissions including PPAP packages (PSW, PFMEA, Control Plans, MSA, capability studies, etc.). * Inspection & Process Control * Oversee in‑process and final inspection activities for CNC‑machined components, ensuring compliance with GD&T, special characteristics, and functional requirements. * Introduce and maintain layered audits, patrol checks, and escalation processes such as stop‑build/stop‑ship. * Drive SPC utilisation across machining operations, monitoring Cp/Cpk and reacting quickly to out‑of‑control signals. Quality Systems & Compliance * Own the site’s QMS and maintain readiness for ISO 9001 and IATF 16949 audits. * Lead internal audit programmes, corrective actions, and documentation updates. * Manage MRB processes including nonconformance review, dispositions, concessions, and deviations. * Continuous Improvement * Lead CI initiatives focused on scrap reduction, first‑pass yield, and process capability. * Partner with Manufacturing Engineering to implement error‑proofing, robust process controls, and standardised work. * Facilitate cross‑functional improvement workshops targeting flow, stability, and quality performance. Supplier Development * Conduct supplier audits, manage supplier PPAPs, and drive improvement through scorecards and corrective actions. * Leadership & Reporting * Develop and mentor the quality team in metrology, GD&T, problem‑solving, and customer communication. * Report weekly and monthly performance metrics including PPM, scrap, rework, FPY, capability, and cost of poor quality. Key skills and Requirements * Degree in Engineering or equivalent technical experience. * 7+ years in quality roles within CNC machining, precision engineering, or similar high‑mix manufacturing. * Strong working knowledge of APQP/PPAP, PFMEA, MSA, and capability analysis. * Advanced understanding of GD&T and metrology tools (CMM, height gauges, surface measurement equipment). * Demonstrated problem‑solving expertise (8D, Ishikawa, DOE, etc.). * Experience with ISO 9001 auditing; Lead Auditor certification is a plus. * Confident communicator with experience managing customer escalations. * Lean/CI training (Green Belt, Black Belt, or equivalent) preferred. Hours of work and benefits * Monday to Friday - permanent day shift * Excellent employee benefits package to include enhanced holiday and pension entitlements * NB. This is a role that requires regular presence on the shop floor and flexibility to support audits, customer visits, and urgent investigations