INTERNATIONAL RECRUITMENT & HR EXPERTS ACROSS THE PLASTICS, PACKAGING, SPECIALITY CHEMICALS, LIFE SCIENCES, BIOPOLYMER, FOOD ADDITIVES & INGREDIENTS, ENERGY AND RECYCLING SECTORS SINCE 1975.
Quality Engineer
Based in Buckinghamshire
Job ref: AZ /65299
Reporting to the Quality Manager, the Quality Engineer / Inspector ensures that prototype and low-volume parts manufactured and sourced by the client meet all drawing, specification and customer requirements. The role combines hands‑on inspection and metrology with engineering-level ownership of nonconformity investigation, supplier and customer quality, and quality‑management‑system activities. The post holder's sign‑off releases product to the customer.
Key responsibilities by area:
Inspection & metrology
Inspection: perform dimensional and visual inspection of prototype and low-volume parts - 3D-printed (polymer and metal), vacuum-cast, CNC-machined, injection-moulded, sheet-metal and die-cast components.
Measurement: use hand tools (calipers, micrometers, height gauges, pin/thread gauges) and advanced systems (CMM, 3D scanning, where available), selecting the right method for each feature and tolerance.
Conformity: verify parts against customer drawings, GD&T, specifications, tolerances and cosmetic / surface‑finish standards; release or quarantine product accordingly.
Reporting: prepare measurement and inspection reports, First Article Inspection (FAI / AS9102 FAIR), PPAP elements where required, and Certificates of Conformity.
Calibration: own the Metrology Equipment Calibration Register; schedule internal and external calibration, check equipment status and manage out-of‑calibration impact assessments.
Measurement capability: support gauge R&R / MSA, CMM programming and inspection-method development.
Quality management system (QMS)
Documentation: create, update and control QMS procedures, work instructions, forms and records in line with ISO 9001 and AS9100.
Audits: support the internal audit programme and external certification / customer audits; follow up findings to closure.
CAPA: log and manage nonconformities, corrective and preventive actions through to verified closure.
Data & KPIs: maintain quality records and trend NCRs, root causes, first-pass yield and customer complaints; report results to the Quality Manager.
Compliance: ensure traceability, material certification and record retention meet customer and AS9100 requirements.
Nonconformance & problem solving:
Investigation: lead investigations of internal, supplier and customer nonconformities using 8D, 5 Why and Ishikawa.
Containment & disposition: define containment, segregate suspect product and coordinate MRB / disposition decisions (rework, concession, scrap).
Root cause: identify root causes with Production and Engineering and verify the effectiveness of corrective actions.
Supplier quality
Source inspection: carry out quality checks and source inspections at external suppliers (UK and occasionally Europe).
Qualification: support supplier qualification, evaluation and periodic performance review.
Supplier corrective actions: raise SCARs, review supplier 8D responses and follow up to closure.
Incoming inspection: define and perform goods‑in inspection for sourced parts.
Customer quality
Interface: act as the professional quality contact for customers across aerospace, medical, motorsport, industrial and consumer sectors.
Requirements: review customer quality requirements and flow‑downs (drawings, specifications, PO clauses) at quotation and order stage.
Claims: manage customer complaints, claims and corrective‑action requests, providing clear written responses and technical support.
Continuous improvement & EHS
Improvement: identify and drive improvements in manufacturing processes, inspection methods and the QMS.
Collaboration: work closely with Production, Engineering, Project Management and Sales to embed consistent quality standards.
EHS: comply with all EHS rules and PPE requirements and support a safe, tidy inspection and shop‑floor environment.
Qualifications & Experience:
Essential:
Experience inspecting parts in a manufacturing, machining, additive or precision-engineering environment (full-time, apprenticeship or placement).
Confident use of calipers, micrometers and basic gauges; able to read engineering drawings.
Structured problem‑solving (8D, 5 Why, Ishikawa) and CAPA management.
Methodical, accurate and committed to getting things right.
Good written and verbal English - reports go directly to customers.
Right to work in the UK.
Desirable (training provided):
Technical qualification (HNC, HND, engineering degree or apprenticeship) or equivalent time‑served experience.
Understanding of GD&T; experience with CMM or 3D scanning.
Working knowledge of ISO 9001 and AS9100; experience writing FAI / FAIR reports.
Exposure to additive manufacturing, vacuum casting, CNC machining, injection moulding, sheet metal or die‑casting.
Automotive quality background (PPAP, IATF 16949).
Good IT literacy (MS Office; ERP / quality software an advantage).
Key competencies
Attention to detail and sound, independent judgement on part acceptance.
Clear, professional communication with customers, suppliers and colleagues.
Ownership - follows issues through to closure.
Curiosity and willingness to learn new technologies and standards.
Ability to manage varied, short‑lead‑time work and prioritise effectively.
Why select Listgrove?
- Five Decades of Market Intelligence
- Unrivalled Industry Networks
- Recognised International brand
- HR Qualified Professionals
To hear from our clients on how we have supported their search for talent and HR needs, please visit Listgrove's Case Studies page.
Throughout 2026 & 2027 you can meet with Listgrove at the following exhibitions:
Interpack, France Innovation Plasturgie, Interplas UK, Plast Milan, Fakuma, ArabPlast, NPE 2027.
Meet us at Plastics Live Ireland in Dublin, 26-27 November, Stand B7
Performance through People.
Please visit our website for more information on our services, global success and testimonials
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Quality Engineer in High Wycombe employer: Listgrove Limited
Listgrove Limited is an exceptional employer that fosters a dynamic work culture in Cheshire, where innovation and collaboration thrive. Employees benefit from hands-on leadership, ample opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to make a tangible impact on manufacturing operations. With a focus on mentorship and sustainable transformation, this role offers a rewarding environment for those looking to drive meaningful change.
