At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive quality improvements and solve problems in a precision manufacturing environment.
- Company: Join CVI Infrared Optics, a leader in advanced optical components since 1982.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, and opportunities for continuous learning.
- Other info: Collaborative culture focused on quality and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on product quality and operational excellence.
- Qualifications: Degree in Engineering or STEM, with experience in manufacturing environments.
The predicted salary is between 34200 - 41800 £ per year.
CVI Infrared Optics is a part of the IDEX Materials, Science and Solutions (MSS) platform. We have become the leading experts in manufacturing and integration of large optics from visible, and near infrared, to longwave infrared, that can continuously perform in extreme weather climates and harsh conditions.
We are seeking a proactive and driven Quality Engineer to join our manufacturing team in Whetstone. This is an excellent opportunity to play a key role in improving product quality, reducing manufacturing defects, supporting new product introductions, and driving continuous improvement across a precision manufacturing environment.
This role focuses on:
- Reducing defects
- Improving process capability
- Supporting new product introduction
- Leading structured problem-solving activities to improve yield, reduce the Cost of Poor Quality (COPQ), and enhance overall product quality
Working closely with Engineering, Production, Supply Chain and Customer teams, you will play a key role in maintaining a culture of quality excellence and operational improvement.
Key Responsibilities
- Quality Improvement & Problem Solving
- Lead root cause investigations and problem-solving activities using 8D or equivalent methodologies.
- Monitor and report on yield performance, customer returns and Cost of Poor Quality (COPQ).
- Implement effective corrective and preventive actions to eliminate recurring issues.
- Manage internal and external quality issues involving customers, suppliers and production teams.
- Facilitate reject reviews and drive containment and corrective actions.
- APQP & New Product Introduction
- Support the successful introduction of new and revised products using Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP).
- Develop and maintain quality documentation including FMEAs, Control Plans, First Article Inspection Reports (FAIRs), and Measurement System Analysis (MSA) studies.
- Assess manufacturing risks and ensure appropriate controls are implemented.
- Support process capability and Gauge R&R activities.
- Manage and maintain calibration systems for inspection equipment.
- Continuous Improvement
- Lead and participate in Continuous Improvement (CI) projects across manufacturing operations.
- Promote problem-solving and CI tools throughout the production environment.
- Support the implementation and sustainability of process improvements.
- Share lessons learned and best practices to drive company-wide improvements.
- Quality Systems & Compliance
- Support and maintain compliance with ISO 9001 (and/or AS9100) quality management systems.
- Conduct audits of manufacturing and business processes.
- Assist with training production teams on quality standards, inspection methods and best practices.
- Support quality reporting and performance reviews with key stakeholders.
Key Performance Measures
- Manufacturing yield >95%
- Customer returns <1>
- Cost of Poor Quality (COPQ) <2>
Essential Skills & Experience
- Degree in Engineering or another STEM discipline.
- Experience within a manufacturing, engineering or industrial environment.
- Knowledge of New Product Introduction (NPI) processes.
- Practical experience of APQP, FMEA, Control Plans, MSA, FAIRs.
- Strong problem-solving skills using 8D or similar methodologies.
- Ability to interpret engineering drawings and GD&T specifications.
- Understanding of ISO 9001 quality management systems.
- Strong project management and organisational skills.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office applications.
Desirable Skills & Experience
- Degree in Quality, Mechanical, Industrial or Manufacturing Engineering.
- Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement methodologies.
- Experience conducting process audits.
- Experience training or coaching production personnel.
- Experience within a precision manufacturing or highly regulated environment.
Personal Attributes
- Self-motivated with a passion for quality and continuous improvement.
- Strong analytical and data-driven mindset.
- Able to communicate effectively at all levels of the organisation.
- Influential and collaborative, with strong relationship-building skills.
- Comfortable working across departments to drive positive change.
- Committed to learning and developing new skills.
Occasional travel to customer and supplier sites may be required. If you are passionate about quality, problem solving and continuous improvement, and want to make a tangible impact in a precision manufacturing environment, we'd love to hear from you.
Quality Engineer employer: IDEX
CVI Infrared Optics is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Whetstone where innovation and quality are at the forefront of our operations. We prioritise employee growth through continuous improvement initiatives and provide comprehensive training to enhance skills in a collaborative culture. With a commitment to excellence and a focus on impactful projects, we empower our team members to make significant contributions to high-performance optical systems.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Quality Engineer
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
Getting involved in local manufacturing groups or associations can seriously boost your visibility. These groups often have insider info on job openings and networking events, plus they help you connect with like-minded folks in the industry. Check out what's happening in your area!
✨Show Off Your Skills in Practical Spaces
Consider participating in workshops or open days at manufacturing companies. It's a great way to show off your hands-on skills in a real-world environment and can sometimes lead to job offers right on the spot. Keep an eye on announcements from local manufacturers for these opportunities!
✨Leverage the Power of Internships
While you're looking for full-time positions, don't underestimate the power of internships! Even if you don't see a direct role, securing an internship at a company can open doors to future jobs. Many manufacturing firms prefer to hire from their intern pool, so it's definitely worth considering.
✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like IDEX, apply directly on their website. This way, you’re more likely to be noticed by the hiring team. Plus, showing that you took the time to seek out their application process highlights your genuine interest in the firm!
We think you need these skills to ace Quality Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing-production sector, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills and experience. Make sure your CV features any relevant qualifications, such as certifications in machinery operation or production management, and don’t forget about any specific systems or software you’re familiar with. This can really set you apart!
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication:Working in manufacturing often means being part of a larger team. Highlight your experience in collaborative projects or environments where communication was key. Maybe you have experience with lean manufacturing principles? Talk about how you worked with your team to improve productivity and maintain quality.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to IDEX specifically. Mention what excites you about their production processes or products, and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
Use Concrete Examples of Your Achievements:When detailing your work experience, include measurable achievements that can demonstrate your impact. Whether it’s improving efficiency by a certain percentage or successfully leading a project, these specifics can make a huge difference. Numbers speak volumes in the manufacturing world!
How to prepare for a job interview at IDEX
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with IDEX, brush up on the specific manufacturing processes relevant to the role. Understanding lean manufacturing principles or quality control techniques could give you a solid edge to discuss how you’d fit into their operations.
✨Technical Questions Are Key
Be prepared for technical questions around machinery, production scheduling, or materials handling. Make sure you can confidently explain how you've dealt with these in past experiences or internships. Knowing industry-specific software could also be a big plus!
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Manufacturing environments often focus on continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve solved a production issue or implemented a process improvement. It’s all about demonstrating your analytical thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Align Your Values with Quality and Safety
In a full-time role, companies like IDEX value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.
