At a Glance
- Tasks: Ensure product quality and compliance while driving continuous improvement in a dynamic manufacturing environment.
- Company: Global leader in fire detection and suppression products, committed to safety and innovation.
- Benefits: Generous annual leave, health insurance, bonuses, and a supportive work culture.
- Other info: Opportunities for growth, training, and recognition in a collaborative team atmosphere.
- Why this job: Join a team that saves lives and makes a real impact in the fire safety industry.
- Qualifications: Experience in quality engineering and strong problem-solving skills required.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
FFE is a global design and manufacturing business, with a head office and manufacturing in Hitchin, R&D Centre in Cambridge and sales and marketing support across the globe. FFE is dedicated to supplying specialist detection and suppression products to the fire industry. Our business is driven by our vision of a future where all lives and livelihoods are safe from fire, and is supported by:
- Understanding our customers and our markets whilst providing the highest quality of customer service and satisfaction.
- Designing and manufacturing quality products in a sustainable way.
- Striving for excellence in everything we do.
There is worldwide reliance on FFE products, in high profile public infrastructure, commercial workspaces and industrial operating environments. In addition, FFE products are trusted to protect some of the world’s most iconic buildings such as the White House, Dubai Airport, and Pinewood Studios. The FFE portfolio includes two industry leading product brands: Fireray® and Talentum®.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Product & Process Quality: Investigate product non‑conformances using structured methodologies (5‑Why, 8D, Ishikawa), driving robust corrective and preventive actions. Support Material Review Board activities—inspecting, assessing and dispositioning non‑conforming parts and assemblies. Work closely with Production and Engineering to ensure inspection, calibration and verification processes remain capable and compliant.
- Supplier Quality Management: Perform supplier evaluations, audits, and ongoing performance reviews to ensure adherence to specifications, certifications and quality expectations. Lead supplier‑related problem‑solving activities, ensuring timely and effective containment, root‑cause analysis and corrective actions. Monitor supplier KPIs (delivery performance, PPM, right‑first‑time), identify trends and drive targeted improvement initiatives.
- Compliance & IMS Support: Maintain documentation and processes aligned to FFE’s Integrated Management System (ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001, ATEX 80079‑34, CAA Part 21). Conduct internal audits and support external audit readiness across Quality, Engineering, Operations and Supply Chain. Participate in PFMEA, control plan maintenance and risk activities for new products and design changes. Analyse quality data (scrap, rework, defects, supplier metrics) to identify risks and opportunities. Drive continuous improvement projects aimed at reducing variability, improving reliability, and enhancing product and process capability. Provide clear, concise reporting to Quality, Engineering and Operations leadership.
Skills and Experience:
- Experience in a quality engineering or supplier quality engineering role within electronics, electro‑mechanical, or safety‑critical manufacturing.
- Practical experience with supplier quality tools—auditing, inspection methodologies, PPAP‑style reviews, NCR management and supplier corrective actions.
- Strong problem‑solving capability using recognised quality tools (8D, 5‑Why, PFMEA, SPC).
- Ability to interpret engineering drawings, specifications, tolerances, and test documentation.
- Knowledge of ISO 9001‑based quality management systems; awareness of ATEX / hazardous‑area products is beneficial.
- Comfortable working in a hands‑on manufacturing environment and collaborating closely with production and engineering teams.
- Familiarity with electro‑optical or fire‑detection products.
- Exposure to Lean, Six Sigma or structured continuous‑improvement methodologies.
Benefits:
- Annual Leave: 25 days
- Bonuses: Company bonus scheme
- Pension: Halma Pension plan
- Health Insurance: BUPA and Simply Health cash plan
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
- Reward & Recognition: Free Shares Scheme, annual bonus opportunities, peer‑nominated awards, milestone celebrations with extra leave and cash awards.
- Wellbeing: YuLife app, fresh fruit and juice, confidential Employee Assistance Programme.
- Family Support: 14 weeks fully paid maternity, paternity, or adoption leave.
- Future Security: Pension scheme contribution up to 10.5% and Critical Illness Cover for extended work absence.
- Lifestyle & Everyday Savings: Benefits Hub discounts, tax‑efficient schemes for cycling and electric vehicles, team lunches.
- Growth & Long‑Term Recognition: Training and learning opportunities, extra annual leave, annual £250 award at every five‑year milestone.
Quality Engineer in Hitchin employer: Halma p.l.c
FFE is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth, offering a supportive work culture where creativity and innovation thrive. Located in Hitchin, employees benefit from a comprehensive range of perks including generous annual leave, health insurance, and a robust pension plan, all while contributing to life-saving technologies that protect iconic structures worldwide. With a commitment to continuous improvement and recognition of achievements, FFE provides a fulfilling environment for Quality Engineers to make a meaningful impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Quality Engineer in Hitchin
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching FFE and its products. Understand their mission and values, and think about how your skills as a Quality Engineer can contribute to their vision of safety and excellence.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your problem-solving skills! Be ready to discuss how you've tackled quality issues in the past using tools like 5-Why or 8D. Show them you can think on your feet and drive improvements.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of the FFE team.
We think you need these skills to ace Quality Engineer in Hitchin
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Quality Engineer role. Highlight relevant experience and skills that match the job description, especially those related to quality engineering and supplier management.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should tell us why you’re passionate about quality engineering and how your background aligns with our mission at FFE. Share specific examples of your problem-solving skills and experiences in quality assurance.
Showcase Your Technical Skills:Don’t forget to mention your familiarity with quality tools like 8D, 5-Why, and PFMEA. We want to see how you’ve used these methodologies in past roles to drive improvements and ensure compliance.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Halma p.l.c
✨Know Your Quality Tools
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of quality engineering tools like 5-Why, 8D, and PFMEA. Be ready to discuss how you've used these methodologies in past roles, especially in relation to supplier quality management or product non-conformance.
✨Understand FFE's Vision
Dive deep into FFE's mission of safety and quality in the fire industry. Show that you understand their commitment to customer satisfaction and sustainable practices. This will help you align your answers with their values during the interview.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions related to interpreting engineering drawings and specifications. Brush up on your knowledge of ISO 9001 and any relevant compliance standards. Being able to demonstrate your technical expertise will set you apart.
✨Show Your Collaborative Spirit
FFE values teamwork and collaboration. Be prepared to share examples of how you've worked closely with production and engineering teams in the past. Highlight your ability to drive continuous improvement initiatives and how you’ve contributed to a positive team environment.
