Quality Engineer in Newton Aycliffe

Location: Newton Aycliffe, UK

Sector: Semiconductor Manufacturing

Job Type: Full-Time

Octric Semiconductor is a new name in the compound semiconductor foundry space. Its devices are used in mission critical defence and commercial applications. For over 25 years, we have been delivering over 1.5 billion devices that have been shipped from our site to date. Octric has ambitious plans to grow the company and expand with new products and applications, and the company is developing a 10-year investment plan. We now have a bright new path ahead of us following the recent significant investment from the UK Government. As a part of an emerging semiconductor cluster in the northeast, we are focused on developing advanced technology, focused on the next generation of semiconductors. We are looking to fill a number of exciting roles across device design and innovation through to manufacturing & reliability.

Located in Newton Aycliffe, UK, we occupy a 10,000 m2 purpose-built Class 100 manufacturing facility fully equipped to produce state of the art compound semiconductor product. Octric is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds. Our company values different perspectives and experiences, and we're dedicated to creating an environment where all employees can thrive. We have family friendly employee policies, and a culture that respects work life balance. We offer a competitive benefits package including healthcare, pension and life assurance, and we are a company committed to personal & professional progression and development. Be part of our journey and join our team driving innovation in a cutting-edge industry.

PURPOSE OF ROLE:

We are seeking a proactive and detail-oriented Quality Engineer to join our team in the semiconductor industry, with a strong emphasis on both internal process quality and supplier quality assurance. This role is critical in maintaining the integrity of our manufacturing operations by ensuring that internal processes consistently meet rigorous quality standards and that external suppliers deliver components that align with our specifications.

SUMMARY OF RESPONSIBILITIES:

The successful candidate will be responsible for driving continuous improvement initiatives across internal workflows, supporting the qualification and monitoring of suppliers, and contributing to the development and enforcement of robust quality systems. A strong understanding of electronics manufacturing standards, coupled with hands-on experience in quality engineering and supplier management, is essential. This position offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on product reliability, operational efficiency, and cross-functional collaboration within a fast-paced, high-tech environment.

MAIN TASKS:

• Supplier Qualification & Development: Evaluate and approve new suppliers through audits, assessments, and capability studies. Partner with sourcing and engineering teams to qualify new materials, components, and processes. Provide training and guidance to suppliers on quality expectations and standards.
• Quality Assurance & Compliance: Ensure supplier compliance with industry standards (e.g., ISO 9001, ISO14001, JEDEC, IPC). Develop and maintain supplier quality agreements and performance metrics (PPM, OTD, DPPM, etc.). Perform risk assessments for critical suppliers and implement mitigation strategies.
• Problem Solving & Continuous Improvement: Lead root cause analysis and corrective action (8D, 5-Why, FMEA) for supplier-related issues. Monitor supplier performance and drive improvement plans to meet KPIs. Implement statistical process control (SPC) and advanced quality planning (APQP) methodologies.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with design, process, and manufacturing engineering teams to resolve supplier quality concerns. Support new product introduction (NPI) by ensuring supplier readiness and process robustness. Act as the key liaison between internal stakeholders and suppliers to align on quality expectations.

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

Experience: 3–7 years of experience in quality engineering, with at least 2 years in supplier quality within the semiconductor or electronics industry. Familiarity with semiconductor manufacturing processes (wafer fabrication, assembly, packaging, testing) a strong plus. Excellent communication, negotiation, and supplier management skills. Ability to travel domestically and internationally as required.

Special Skills & Qualities: Strong analytical and critical thinking skills. Ability to influence and drive quality improvements with external partners. Proactive mindset with a focus on prevention rather than detection. Comfortable working in a fast-paced, high-tech manufacturing environment. Comfortable working in a cleanroom environment.

Education/Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Electrical, Mechanical, Materials, or related field). Strong knowledge of quality management systems (ISO 9001, IATF 16949, AS9100 preferred). Hands-on experience with auditing, PPAP, FAI, APQP, SPC, MSA, FMEA, and 8D problem solving. Proficiency in quality tools and data analysis (e.g., Minitab, JMP, Excel).

If you don’t meet all listed qualifications but feel this role aligns with your skills and career aspirations, we encourage you to apply. We are committed to providing accommodations during the application process to ensure accessibility for all candidates.

For more information please contact Travis Townsend @ major Recruitment.