At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive quality improvements and collaborate with teams to enhance production processes.
- Company: Leading engineering and manufacturing site in Darlington.
- Benefits: Standard benefits package, bonus, pension, and career progression opportunities.
- Other info: Hands-on role with exposure to senior leadership and cross-functional projects.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on quality excellence in a dynamic manufacturing environment.
- Qualifications: Degree in Engineering and experience in quality engineering preferred.
The predicted salary is between 38250 - 46750 £ per year.
Deliver. Influence. Uphold Quality Excellence.
Be one of the first applicants, read the complete overview of the role below, then send your application for consideration.
A high-impact opportunity for a Quality Engineer to join a leading engineering and manufacturing site in Darlington.
This is a visible, hands-on quality position suited to engineers who are passionate about continuous improvement, best-in-class standards, and positively influencing business outcomes.
This is not an audit-focused or administrative role — it is a technical, process-driven quality position where you'll own and drive improvements across production and supply chains, working with colleagues at all levels.
- What You'll Gain
- Ownership of on-site quality improvement initiatives in a high-performing manufacturing environment
- Exposure to senior quality, production, and engineering leadership
- Influence over product and process conformity, root cause analysis, and continuous improvement
- Opportunity to apply APQP, IATF 16949, ISO, and Core Tools in a real-world setting
- Standard benefits package (including bonus and pension)
- A platform for progression with an internationally recognised engineering environment
- Your Impact
- Drive proactive quality control and improvement programmes across production, supply chain, and design
- Lead the implementation of APQP, IATF 16949, ISO, and Core Tools (FMEA, MSA, SPC, PPAP) in daily operations
- Lead and support root cause analysis, corrective actions, and preventive actions for both internal and external issues
- Collaborate closely with production, design engineering, manufacturing teams, and suppliers
- Support audits, risk management, and regulatory compliance activities
- Act as a technical reference on quality tools and methodologies to team members and cross-functional partners
- Represent quality in cross-functional improvement initiatives and projects
- You'll Bring
- Degree in Engineering or equivalent technical discipline preferred
- Experience in a similar quality engineering role (manufacturing/automotive preferred)
- Experience with APQP, Core Tools, IATF 16949, ISO standards, and associated quality systems
- Strong analytical, root cause analysis, and structured problem-solving abilities
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, enabling you to engage with a range of stakeholders and teams from shop floor to management
- Proactive, self-driven, and able to work independently with minimal supervision
- Collaborative approach and a commitment to continual improvement and best practice
- Additional Information
- Full time position, employees will be required to work the agreed shift patterns. xiskglj
- Initial travel required (up to 20% in first 3–4 months for training), then fully based onsite
If you're an experienced and self-motivated Quality Engineer ready to drive meaningful impact and quality excellence, apply now for a confidential conversation.
Quality Engineer employer: KellyOCG
At KellyOCG, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation. Our Luton location provides a unique opportunity for professional growth within the aerospace sector, supported by comprehensive training and development programmes. With a focus on employee well-being and a commitment to diversity, we ensure that our team members thrive in a rewarding environment while contributing to impactful projects.
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 KellyOCG, 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 KellyOCG 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 KellyOCG
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with KellyOCG, 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 KellyOCG 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.