Job Description: Lead Quality Engineer
Location: Barrow-in-Furness, UK (with travel to Huddersfield)
Business Unit: UK Defence
Hours: 37.5 hours/week (Monday to Friday)
Travel: Domestic (up to 25)
Overview
Morson Talent have partnered with a global leader in mechanical power transmission solutions. As part of their UK defence division, we are seeking a Lead Quality Engineer to join the dynamic Quality and Business Improvement team.
Based primarily in Barrow-in-Furness, you’ll work closely with engineering and assembly teams, overseeing quality assurance processes to ensure products meet stringent standards, customer requirements, and contractual obligations. Occasional travel to the North Yorkshire facility will be required.
About the Role
As Lead Quality Engineer, you will:
* Support proactive quality governance and continuous improvement within a matrix project team.
* Lead quality assurance and control at the customer site throughout the gearbox assembly lifecycle.
* Ensure compliance with quality management systems, safety regulations, and customer requirements.
Key Responsibilities
* Implement and monitor quality control procedures onsite.
* Conduct inspections, audits, and testing throughout the assembly process.
* Manage quality documentation (certifications, build records, inspection reports).
* Develop and maintain check sheets, SOPs, inspection and test plans (ITPs).
* Identify root causes using industry-standard tools (8D, 5 Whys, Ishikawa) and implement corrective actions (CAPA).
* Prepare and present quality performance KPIs and reports.
* Interface with customers, third-party auditors, and internal teams on quality matters.
* Maintain compliance with ISO 9001:2015, AQAP 2110D, and other relevant standards.
* Support internal audits and contribute to the governance of the QMS.
* Participate in project meetings and collaborate cross-functionally.
Required Qualifications
Minimum:
* Apprenticeship in Mechanical Engineering (or equivalent experience)
* Experience in quality control, assurance, or a similar discipline
Preferred:
* HNC/HND in Mechanical Engineering (or equivalent experience)
* ISO 9001:2015 auditor certification
Essential Skills & Experience
* In-depth understanding of ISO 9001 and ISO 45001 standards
* Experience in quality roles within engineering or manufacturing environments
* Ability to read and interpret technical drawings (including GD&T)
* Familiarity with components such as gears, gearboxes, shafts, and fabricated parts
* Experience using both metric and imperial measurement systems
* Skilled in measurement systems and techniques
* Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
* Competence in root cause analysis and corrective action planning
* Proficient in Microsoft Office and report generation
* Effective communicator, confident working with multiple stakeholders
Business Knowledge
* Understanding of manufacturing processes such as machining, welding, heat treatment, NDE, and assembly
* Awareness of standards such as AQAP, Defence Standards, Lloyds Rules
* Knowledge of engineering specifications and regulatory compliance
Leadership & Influence
* Act as point of contact for quality within the value stream
* Communicate quality performance and governance to key stakeholders
* Mentor and support team members in embedding quality culture and standards
* Lead by example in fostering a continuous improvement mindset
Interpersonal & Communication Skills
* Build and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders
* Collaborate with customers, suppliers, and cross-functional teams
* Effectively communicate technical quality issues and solutions
* Represent in meetings and audits professionally and knowledgeably
Personal Attributes
* Self-starter with strong ownership and accountability
* Positive, proactive, and team-oriented attitude
* Resilient, adaptable, and open to change
* Detail-oriented with a focus on quality, safety, and compliance
* Confident decision-maker under pressure
Additional Information
Our client operates globally with over 1,200 employees and nearly three centuries of engineering heritage. As a defence contractor, employment is subject to security clearance and export control regulations. This includes restrictions based on nationality and place of birth.
All applicants must have the Right to Work in the UK.