Quality Manager

Quality Manager / Lead Inspector
Precision Engineering | Aerospace | Defence | Nuclear
Location: Poole, Dorset
Job Type: Full-time, Permanent
The Opportunity
An established precision engineering business in Poole is seeking an experienced Quality Manager / Lead Inspector to take ownership of its quality function.
This is a hands-on leadership role, combining responsibility for the Quality Management System, team management and customer quality requirements with practical dimensional inspection of precision-engineered components.
The business supplies the Aerospace, Defence and Nuclear sectors and is part of a growing engineering group investing in its people, equipment and future development.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead and develop the Quality Department and inspection team.
* Maintain and continually improve the AS9100 / BS EN ISO 9001 Quality Management System.
* Plan and conduct internal, customer and supplier audits.
* Manage non-conformances, concessions, production permits and customer 8D reports.
* Liaise with customer Quality Departments to resolve issues and ensure compliance.
* Manage calibration systems and supplier quality approvals.
* Drive root cause analysis, corrective actions and continuous improvement.
* Produce quality performance reports and identify improvement opportunities.
* Carry out dimensional inspection of precision components, including in-process and procured parts.
* Operate and programme fixed and portable Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMMs).
* Lead First Article Inspection (FAI) activities and maintain accurate documentation and traceability.
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Essential Requirements
* Experience in quality management or inspection within precision engineering or manufacturing, ideally Aerospace, Defence or Nuclear.
* Strong knowledge of AS9100 and/or BS EN ISO 9001.
* Ability to interpret engineering drawings and CAD models, including geometric tolerances and weld symbols.
* Practical metrology experience, including CMM operation and programming.
* Experience managing non-conformances, root cause analysis and 8D problem-solving.
* Proven team leadership or management ability.
* Relevant management qualification or substantial experience in a similar role.
Desirable
* Knowledge of AS9102 First Article Inspection requirements.
* Experience of precision machining and welding processes.
* Familiarity with MRP / ERP systems.
* Internal auditor training and/or NVQ Level 4 or above.
Hours and Benefits
* 39 hours per week: Monday to Thursday, 7:30am–4:30pm; Friday, 7:30am–12:30pm.
* 25 days' annual leave plus bank holidays.
* Private medical scheme after 12 months' service.
* Life assurance.
* Workwear provided.
* Occasional extended hours may be required.
Apply Now
If you have the technical expertise and leadership experience to manage a quality function while remaining hands-on with inspection, apply today to be considered for this opportunity
Only candidates based in UK and eligible to work in UK are allowed