At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead supplier quality activities and drive continuous improvement in automotive manufacturing.
- Company: Join McLaren Automotive, a leader in performance road cars.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, enhanced pension, and flexible lifestyle benefits.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to innovation and excellence.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on high-performance vehicles and develop your career.
- Qualifications: Experience in Supplier Quality and knowledge of automotive manufacturing processes required.
The predicted salary is between 42750 - 52250 £ per year.
Job Title Snr SQD Engineer Composites Automotive Ref #58899Date posted Thursday, March 19, 2026Country United Kingdom Location Woking Business area SQDDepartment Supplier Quality Assurance Position level5 - Supervisory / Professional
- (L-16)Working time Full Time Contract type Permanent Working pattern9am - 6pm Monday to Friday What to Expect You’ll be part of the BIW & Composites team within Mc Laren’s Supplier Quality & Development function, working closely with cross-functional teams and suppliers to protect quality, delivery and launch readiness across key vehicle programmes.
This is a hands-on supplier-facing role with real influence.
You’ll support the development of a capable, self-sufficient supply base, helping suppliers meet Mc Laren’s standards through sourcing, APQP, manufacturing feasibility, PPAP, launch support and ongoing improvement activity.
You’ll bring technical knowledge of body panel manufacture, aluminium processes and/or composite part production, alongside a strong understanding of measurement, GD&T and the quality expectations required to achieve class-leading fit, finish and aesthetic standards.
What You'll Do Lead supplier quality activities from sourcing and industrialisation through to launch and series production, ensuring quality, delivery and performance expectations are achieved across your supplier portfolio.
Drive APQP, PPAP and manufacturing feasibility activities, helping suppliers establish robust and capable processes while proactively identifying and mitigating programme risks.
Lead cross-functional problem-solving and continuous improvement initiatives, influencing stakeholders across Engineering, Purchasing, Manufacturing and Supplier organisations to deliver the best outcomes for Mc Laren.
Develop supplier capability and support the growth of the wider SQD team through coaching, knowledge sharing and the transfer of best practice, helping to build long-term organisational capability.
Lead departmental workstreams focused on improving SQD processes, procedures and ways of working, supporting the continued evolution of the function.
Create clear, data-driven reporting and deliver concise updates and recommendations to senior stakeholders, ensuring risks, progress and priorities are understood and actioned.
Provide leadership and support across the wider SQD team, acting as a trusted point of contact and providing additional support during management absence when required.
What You'll Bring Experience in Supplier Quality, Supplier Development or Quality Engineering within automotive, motorsport or a similarly complex manufacturing environment.
Strong understanding of APQP, PPAP, FMEA, MSA and SPC, with experience supporting products through development and launch.
Knowledge of aluminium body structures, body panels and/or composite manufacturing processes, including carbon fibre technologies.
Expertise in GD&T, measurement techniques and quality requirements relating to fit, finish and appearance.
Demonstrated experience coaching and developing others, with the ability to share knowledge, influence peers and support the growth of less experienced team members.
Strong presentation and communication skills, with experience translating complex technical topics into clear messages for senior and cross-functional audiences.
Experience leading improvement projects or business workstreams, with a track record of delivering sustainable process and procedural improvements.
The ability to assess manufacturing capability, identify risks and influence both internal and supplier stakeholders.
A structured and analytical approach to problem-solving, using methodologies such as 8D to deliver sustainable improvements.
Degree qualified in Engineering, or equivalent industry experience.
The ability to operate independently, make sound decisions and provide leadership support within a high-performing team environment.
A proactive, organised and collaborative approach, with the flexibility to travel when required.
What We'll Do for You We offer a wide – ranging benefits package, which includes: Structured career development framework25 days’ holiday, plus bank holiday.
Annual buy & sell up to five days Enhanced company pension scheme Discretionary annual bonus award Private medical insurance and health cash plan Life assurance benefit Ability to apply for a sabbatical of up to one year after only two years’ service Benefits you can adapt to your lifestyle, such as discounted shopping Generous parental leave policies A range of wellbeing initiatives, such as employee assistance programme and free financial & mortgage advice Who Are We?No restraints.
No limitations.
We don’t simply push boundaries.
We completely rethink them.
Mc Laren Automotive exists to create breath-taking performance road cars.
It takes a community to do what we do.
A diverse group of people with many areas of expertise, united by their passion to deliver visionary products and set new benchmarks.
Mc Laren Automotive commits to equal opportunity for all.
Diversity, Equality and Inclusion is at the heart of our impact, it drives our innovation and enables us to truly create something special.
Join us on our journey.
Snr SQD Engineer Composites Automotive in Woking employer: McLaren Group
At McLaren, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and teamwork. Our Composite Laminating Shift Lead role not only provides competitive benefits and opportunities for professional growth but also allows you to be part of a prestigious brand known for its commitment to high-performance and safety. Located in a state-of-the-art facility, you'll collaborate with talented professionals dedicated to excellence, making every day at McLaren a rewarding experience.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Snr SQD Engineer Composites Automotive in Woking
✨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 McLaren Group, 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 Snr SQD Engineer Composites Automotive in Woking
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 McLaren Group 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 McLaren Group
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with McLaren Group, 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 McLaren Group 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.
