At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead quality assurance for critical defence projects and ensure compliance with industry standards.
- Company: Join a dynamic team in the defence sector focused on innovation and collaboration.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Fast-paced environment with a focus on continuous improvement and teamwork.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on national security through high-profile defence programmes.
- Qualifications: Experience in quality assurance, preferably in engineering or defence, with strong analytical skills.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 € per year.
Bristol - hybrid working (3 days office / 2 days home)
Permanent contract
We are seeking an experienced Quality Assurance Engineer to join a growing defence programme delivering critical training and technology solutions in support of the UK defence sector. This is an opportunity to work within a highly collaborative environment focused on quality, compliance, and continuous improvement across complex defence projects. The successful candidate will play a key role in ensuring quality standards are embedded throughout the project and product lifecycle while working closely with customers, suppliers, and multidisciplinary engineering teams. Defence industry experience is highly desirable.
Key Responsibilities
- Ensure compliance with applicable quality standards, including AS9100 and ISO9001
- Lead resolution of quality-related issues using recognised root cause analysis tools such as 8D and 5 Whys
- Work closely with delivery teams to embed quality processes into project planning and execution
- Act as the primary contact for quality matters with customers and prime contractors
- Conduct internal and external audits to assess quality system effectiveness and identify improvement opportunities
- Support goods inward inspection activities and develop suitable inspection control processes
- Prepare equipment release documentation and Certificates of Conformity
- Develop, monitor, and report against quality metrics
- Manage supplier quality activities, including supplier assessments and selection support
- Investigate non-conformances and recommend corrective actions
- Lead problem-solving sessions with multidisciplinary teams
- Ensure issues are documented and investigated in a timely and effective manner
Skills & Experience
- Previous experience in a Quality Assurance role within engineering or manufacturing environments
- Defence industry experience strongly preferred
- Strong understanding of AS9100, ISO9001, and modern quality tools and methodologies
- Experience with New Product Introduction (NPI) processes
- Ability to interpret engineering drawings and technical documentation
- Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills
- Strong communication and stakeholder management abilities
- Collaborative mindset with the ability to work independently and within teams
- Proficient with Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint
Personal Attributes
- Detail‑oriented with a strong commitment to quality and continuous improvement
- Driven, proactive, and delivery‑focused
- Able to thrive in a fast‑paced, mission‑critical environment
- Strong team player with the ability to collaborate across multiple organisations and disciplines
- Professional approach with a focus on achieving outcomes and improving processes
Why Apply?
This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to high‑profile defence programmes that support critical national capability. You will join a team that values innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement while offering the chance to work on meaningful and technically challenging projects.
Security Requirements
Due to the nature of the work, candidates must be eligible to obtain UK security clearance.
Quality Assurance Lead in England employer: Luminate Talent
Join a dynamic team in Bristol as a Quality Assurance Lead, where you will play a pivotal role in ensuring the highest quality standards within critical defence programmes. Our hybrid working model promotes a healthy work-life balance, while our collaborative culture fosters innovation and continuous improvement, providing ample opportunities for professional growth in a mission-driven environment. With a focus on meaningful projects that support national capability, this is an exceptional opportunity to make a real impact in the defence sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Quality Assurance Lead in England
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the defence sector, especially those who work in quality assurance. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews. You never know who might have a lead on your dream job!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of AS9100 and ISO9001 standards. Be ready to discuss how you've used root cause analysis tools like 8D and 5 Whys in past roles. Show them you’re not just familiar with the terms, but that you can apply them effectively.
✨Tip Number 3
When you get an interview, make sure to ask insightful questions about their quality processes and how they handle compliance. This shows you're genuinely interested and gives you a chance to demonstrate your expertise in quality assurance.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got some fantastic opportunities waiting for you, and applying directly can sometimes give you an edge. Plus, it’s a great way to show your enthusiasm for joining our team!
We think you need these skills to ace Quality Assurance Lead in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Quality Assurance Lead role. Highlight your experience with AS9100 and ISO9001, and don’t forget to mention any defence industry experience you have. We want to see how your skills align with what we’re looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about quality assurance and how you can contribute to our team. Be sure to mention specific projects or experiences that relate to the job description.
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills:In your application, give examples of how you've tackled quality-related issues in the past. We love candidates who can demonstrate their analytical skills and use recognised tools like 8D and 5 Whys to resolve problems effectively.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Luminate Talent
✨Know Your Standards
Familiarise yourself with AS9100 and ISO9001 standards before the interview. Be ready to discuss how you've applied these in your previous roles, especially in quality assurance within engineering or manufacturing environments.
✨Showcase Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of how you've used root cause analysis tools like 8D and 5 Whys to resolve quality-related issues. Highlight specific situations where your analytical skills made a difference in project outcomes.
✨Emphasise Collaboration
Since this role involves working closely with multidisciplinary teams, be prepared to share experiences that demonstrate your collaborative mindset. Talk about how you’ve successfully worked with delivery teams to embed quality processes into project planning.
✨Be Ready for Technical Questions
Brush up on interpreting engineering drawings and technical documentation. Expect questions that assess your understanding of New Product Introduction (NPI) processes and be ready to discuss how you ensure compliance throughout the product lifecycle.
