Quality Assurance Engineer in Sedgefield

Company Overview

Filtronic is a UK-headquartered designer and manufacturer of high-performance RF, microwave and mmWave components, modules and subsystems for mission-critical communication, sensing and space applications. Its technologies operate from 300 MHz to 175 GHz and are deployed across aerospace, defence, space, telecommunications infrastructure and critical communications platforms worldwide. Filtronic’s investment in high calibre people, advanced technology and world‑class manufacturing facilities underpins its growth strategy and ambition to be a leading supplier of high‑frequency solutions.

Role Overview

Filtronic is seeking a Quality Assurance Engineer to support and enhance the quality of its products, processes and systems within a highly regulated aerospace, defence and telecommunications environment. This role is responsible for ensuring compliance with quality management systems, supporting product and process assurance across the full lifecycle, and driving continuous improvement initiatives. The position will work closely with engineering, manufacturing, supply chain and customer teams to ensure that products meet stringent regulatory, customer and internal requirements. Aligned with leading aerospace organisations, this role combines quality systems assurance, product lifecycle quality support and audit-driven continuous improvement, ensuring robust quality performance from design through to production and delivery.

Key Responsibilities

• Quality Systems and Compliance
  • Maintain and continuously improve the Quality Management System (QMS) in line with ISO9001 and AS9100 standards.
  • Ensure compliance with customer, regulatory and industry requirements across all operations.
  • Plan, coordinate and conduct internal audits, supporting external and customer audits.
  • Support the development, implementation and improvement of quality policies, procedures and systems.
• Product and Process Assurance
  • Support product quality throughout the full lifecycle (design, development, manufacturing and delivery).
  • Review and approve engineering and manufacturing documentation to ensure compliance with quality standards.
  • Monitor product performance, including yield, defects and non‑conformance trends.
  • Drive root cause analysis and implement corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) to address quality issues.
  • Work closely with engineering teams to ensure robust design assurance and manufacturability.
• Continuous Improvement and Data Analysis
  • Analyse quality data and metrics to identify trends, risks and improvement opportunities.
  • Lead and support continuous improvement initiatives, driving efficiency, yield and cost reduction.
  • Apply structured quality tools (e.g. SPC, FMEA, 8D) to improve processes and product reliability.
  • Monitor QMS performance and report on compliance and improvement activities to management.
• Audit, Investigation and Risk Management
  • Conduct audits of processes, products and systems to ensure compliance with internal and external standards.
  • Lead investigations into non‑conformances, failures and customer issues, ensuring effective resolution.
  • Support risk management activities, ensuring risks to product quality and delivery are identified and mitigated.
  • Maintain calibration, inspection and certification processes in line with industry standards.
• Supplier and Customer Quality
  • Support supplier quality assurance, including audits, performance monitoring and issue resolution.
  • Act as a key interface between customers, suppliers and internal teams on quality matters.
  • Support customer reporting, audits and compliance activities, ensuring high levels of customer satisfaction.
  • Provide guidance and training to internal teams on quality standards and best practices.
• Documentation and Governance
  • Develop and maintain quality documentation, including procedures, work instructions and audit records.
  • Ensure robust configuration control and documentation management processes are followed.
  • Support the implementation of changes to quality systems, processes and policies.

Skills and Experience

• Degree (or equivalent experience) in Engineering, Physics, Manufacturing or a related discipline.
• Experience in a quality assurance or quality engineering role, ideally within aerospace, defence or high‑technology manufacturing.
• Strong knowledge of quality management systems (ISO9001 / AS9100) and audit processes.
• Experience supporting product development and manufacturing lifecycles in a regulated environment.
• Familiarity with quality tools such as SPC, FMEA, root cause analysis and CAPA.
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving and data interpretation skills.
• Experience working with cross‑functional teams in engineering and manufacturing environments.
• Knowledge of RF/microwave products or electronics manufacturing is advantageous.

Personal Attributes

• High attention to detail with a strong commitment to quality and compliance.
• Process‑driven mindset with a focus on continuous improvement and operational excellence.
• Strong communicator, able to work effectively across engineering, manufacturing and customer teams.
• Proactive, organised and able to manage multiple priorities.
• Resilient and comfortable working in a fast‑paced, high‑reliability environment.

Additional Information

Occasional travel (UK and Europe) may be required. Eligibility for UK security clearance is required.

Equal Opportunities

Filtronic plc is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, or disability status. If you require any adjustments or accommodations to support you during the interview process, please let us know and we will be happy to assist.