At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage supplier quality performance and drive continuous improvement in a dynamic motorcycle manufacturing environment.
- Company: Join an iconic British motorcycle brand with over 120 years of history.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 33 days holiday, private medical insurance, and a generous pension scheme.
- Other info: Enjoy a vibrant workplace culture with exciting employee events and career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of a passionate team shaping the future of legendary motorcycles.
- Qualifications: HNC/HND or Degree in relevant engineering discipline and experience in supplier quality.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
We’re not just another bike brand - we're an iconic, British motorcycle brand with over 120 years of history behind us. Our new state-of-the-art facilities in Solihull, West Midlands are home to a tight-knit, but ever-expanding team that's passionate about delivering exquisite riding experiences to our customers. Under new ownership and proud to be part of the TVS Motor family, we're entering a new era of global success. And we want you to be a part of it!
At Norton, we value respect, trust, and responsibility. We trust our employees to execute their roles exceptionally and professionally, and we value personal development, teaching, and learning. When you join our team, you'll have the opportunity to grow and learn alongside some of the most talented and dedicated people in the business.
The Supplier Quality Engineer (SQE) is responsible for the day-to-day operational management of supplier quality performance within Norton Motorcycles' manufacturing environment. Acting as the primary interface between the Supplier Quality and Plant Quality functions, you will ensure supplier-related quality concerns are effectively contained, investigated, communicated, and resolved to minimise disruption to production.
Working closely with Engineering, Manufacturing, Purchasing and suppliers, you will drive supplier accountability through structured problem-solving, robust KPI reporting, and continuous improvement activities. This role is critical in maintaining supplier quality performance, reducing production downtime, and ensuring compliance with Norton Motorcycles' quality standards and recognised automotive quality systems.
Duties/Responsibilities
- Act as the primary operational contact for supplier quality issues affecting manufacturing
- Manage supplier non-conformances from identification through to effective containment, corrective action, verification and closure
- Coordinate containment activities to minimise production disruption and protect product quality
- Lead supplier root cause investigations using recognised methodologies including 8D, 5 Why and Ishikawa
- Monitor and drive supplier corrective actions to ensure timely and effective resolution
- Maintain accurate supplier quality records, documentation and issue tracking systems
- Develop and maintain supplier quality KPI dashboards and performance reporting
- Analyse supplier performance data to identify recurring issues, trends and improvement opportunities
- Support Supplier Quality Development activities by providing operational performance feedback and issue escalation
- Work closely with Plant Quality, Manufacturing, Engineering and Purchasing to ensure alignment on supplier quality performance
- Participate in production quality reviews, supplier meetings and cross-functional improvement activities
- Support supplier visits, investigations and quality reviews where required
- Ensure supplier quality activities comply with IATF 16949, ISO 9001 and Norton Motorcycles quality standards
- Promote a culture of continuous improvement throughout the supplier quality process
- Support internal and external quality audits relating to supplier performance
Requirements
Essential
- HNC/HND or Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Quality Engineering or a related engineering discipline, or equivalent industry experience
- Minimum of three years' experience within Supplier Quality, Manufacturing Quality or a similar automotive quality role
- Experience working within an automotive or high-volume manufacturing environment
- Working knowledge of IATF 16949 and ISO 9001 Quality Management Systems
- Practical experience using AIAG Core Tools, including: APQP, PPAP, FMEA, Control Plans, SPC, MSA
- Experience managing supplier non-conformances and corrective actions using structured problem-solving methodologies such as: 8D, 5 Why, Ishikawa (Fishbone)
- Ability to interpret engineering drawings and Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T)
- Strong analytical and organisational skills with excellent attention to detail
- Proficient in Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office
- Excellent communication skills with the ability to work collaboratively across multiple departments and supplier organisations
Desirable
- Internal Auditor qualification (ISO 9001 and/or IATF 16949)
- Six Sigma Green Belt (or higher)
- Experience using SAP or equivalent ERP systems
- Knowledge of Power BI or equivalent reporting tools
- Membership of the Chartered Quality Institute (CQI) or a recognised engineering institution
Rewards of working for Norton:
- Competitive salary package that recognises your skills and experience
- 33 days of holiday (inc. Bank Hols) to relax and recharge
- Generous pension scheme that sets you up for the future, with access to personalised advice
- Private Medical Insurance and a Cash Back Programme to keep you feeling your best
- Life insurance (4x salary) because we’ve got your back no matter what
- FREE fruit, got to have your five-a-day!
- WeCare Employee Assistance Programme, which includes access to online GP services, dietary advice, mental health support, bereavement counselling, and a fitness programme
- Experience the thrill of an entrepreneurial environment within a larger, well-funded company with ambitious long-term goals.
- Elevate your career with our Ideas for Excellence scheme, where every brilliant idea is not just valued, but also rewarded!
- A diverse and international team that brings together different perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences.
- Join the fun with our twice-yearly employee events, payday socials, and loads of exciting activities in between!
- Want to go green? You can enjoy free electric bicycle hire
- Plus, no need to stress about finding a parking spot - we’ve got on-site free parking covered and FREE electric charge points.
We know how important it is to take care of our team, and we're committed to continually improving our reward offering in line with the business growth plan. Join us and see for yourself!
Supplier Quality Engineer (SQE) employer: Norton Motorcycles
At Norton Motorcycles, we pride ourselves on being an iconic British motorcycle brand with a rich history and a bright future. Located in Solihull, our state-of-the-art facilities foster a collaborative and innovative work culture where respect, trust, and personal development are at the forefront. As a Product Cost Engineer, you'll not only enjoy competitive benefits like generous holidays and private medical insurance but also have the opportunity to grow your career in an entrepreneurial environment that values your ideas and contributions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Supplier Quality Engineer (SQE)
✨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 Norton Motorcycles, 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 Supplier Quality Engineer (SQE)
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 Norton Motorcycles 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 Norton Motorcycles
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Norton Motorcycles, 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 Norton Motorcycles 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.
