Quality Engineer: Continuous Improvement & Compliance

The Quality Engineer plays a key role within the Quality Department ensuring that products, processes, and systems consistently meet internal, customer, and regulatory requirements. This position is responsible for monitoring, evaluating, and improving both supplier and internal manufacturing and assembly performance using established quality methodologies, data analysis, and KPIs. The role works cross‑functionally with suppliers, customers, and internal teams to drive a culture of operational excellence and a strong Right First Time mindset. The Quality Engineer will actively contribute to continuous improvement initiatives, customer satisfaction, audit readiness, and the ongoing development of the Integrated Management System (IMS).

Main Duties And Responsibilities

• Quality Assurance & Compliance
  • Ensure supplied and internally manufactured products comply with engineering drawings, manufacturing specifications, and all applicable company, customer, and statutory standards.
  • Support and maintain compliance with ISO 9001 requirements and contribute to continuous improvement of the Integrated Management System (IMS). Knowledge of ISO 14001 & 45001 would be advantageous.
  • Act as a recognised point of contact for all quality‑related issues within the business.
  • Liaise directly with suppliers, customers, and internal functions to investigate non‑conformances and ensure effective corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) are implemented.
  • Monitor supplier quality performance, support supplier development activities, and drive improvements where required.
  • Ensure customer complaints are managed effectively, with clear communication and timely resolution.
• Continuous Improvement & Problem Solving
  • Lead structured problem‑solving activities, including 8D investigations, root cause analysis (5 Why), and corrective action planning.
  • Identify quality improvement opportunities and implement robust plans to improve product quality and overall performance.
  • Promote and embed a culture of continuous improvement, operational excellence, and Right First Time thinking across the business.
• Audits & Reporting
  • Support external ISO audits and regulatory assessments.
  • Plan and perform internal IMS audits, supplier audits, and Safety Walks.
  • Coordinate quality data collection, analysis, and reporting, sharing best practice and lessons learned across the business.
  • Track and report quality KPIs, including PPM, Pareto analysis and trends.
• Coaching, Support & Collaboration
  • Provide coaching, guidance, and support to team members on quality tools, procedures, and best practices.
  • Work closely with all support functions (Engineering, Manufacturing, Production, Supply Chain, HSE, etc.) on quality‑related matters.
  • Understand, and work at all times in line with Fives Values and Directives; specifically following the highest standards of health and safety.
• Governance & Compliance
  • Responsible for all aspects of Data Protection, Information Security and Cyber Security.
  • Carry out any other reasonable duties as requested.

Essential Key Skills Requirements

• Proven experience in a Quality Engineering or Quality Assurance role within a manufacturing or production environment.
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing and assembly processes.
• Minimum HNC, or HND qualification (or equivalent experience).
• Completed 4‑year mechanical apprenticeship.
• Demonstrated ability to apply quality methodologies and tools, including:
• 8D problem‑solving
• 5 Why analysis
• Pareto analysis
• PPM performance monitoring
• Strong analytical skills with attention to detail and a structured approach to investigation and root cause analysis.
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within cross‑functional teams.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and stakeholder management skills (internal and external).
• Use own initiative to investigate and resolve problems.
• Confident user of SAP and Microsoft Office tools (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
• Ability to manage time effectively, prioritise workloads, and meet tight deadlines.
• Full, current UK driving licence.

Desirable

• Experience in Combined QHSE environments and involvement in safety initiatives.
• Experience conducting internal, supplier, and system audits.
• Previous involvement in process improvement and lean initiatives.
• Experience supporting or leading ISO certification audits.
• Six Sigma certification, minimum Green Belt.