Job Description
Quality Engineer – Automotive Manufacturing
Location: Basildon, Essex (On-site)
Parkside Recruitment is supporting an established international automotive manufacturer as they launch a brand-new UK production facility in Basildon.
Specialising in plastic injection moulding, automated painting and assembly operations, this new site represents a significant investment and offers the opportunity to join the business at an exciting stage of growth.
We are seeking a hands-on Quality Engineer to support quality assurance, process validation and continuous improvement activities across the manufacturing operation. This role offers genuine progression towards a future Quality Manager position as the UK facility expands.
The Opportunity
Working closely with the Plant Manager, Production and Group Quality teams, you will play a key role in establishing and maintaining quality standards across injection moulding, painting and assembly processes.
This is an ideal opportunity for a Quality Engineer with automotive manufacturing experience who enjoys being visible on the shop floor and wants to help shape quality systems and standards within a growing operation.
Key Responsibilities
Quality Systems & Product Launch
- Support APQP activities and new product introductions
- Prepare and maintain PPAP documentation
- Develop and update Process Flow Diagrams, Control Plans and PFMEAs
- Support compliance with customer-specific requirements and automotive quality standards
- Participate in internal, customer and third-party audits
- Support corrective actions using structured problem-solving methodologies such as 8D
Manufacturing Quality & Process Validation
- Support qualification and validation of injection moulding, painting and assembly processes
- Conduct process capability studies and quality analysis
- Monitor manufacturing processes to ensure stability and compliance
- Work closely with production and engineering teams to identify improvement opportunities
- Support implementation of corrective and preventive actions
Painting & Surface Finishing Quality
- Support qualification and monitoring of paint and coating processes
- Investigate paint-related defects and quality concerns
- Assist with cosmetic defect assessment and appearance standards
- Support initiatives to improve product quality and process consistency
Quality Assurance & Continuous Improvement
- Support incoming, in-process and final inspection activities
- Analyse quality performance data and prepare reports
- Assist with customer complaint investigations and containment activities
- Drive quality improvement and scrap reduction initiatives
- Promote a culture of quality throughout the organisation
Candidate Requirements
Essential
- Experience within an automotive manufacturing environment
- Previous experience in a Quality Engineer, Manufacturing Quality Engineer, Process Quality Engineer or similar position
- Knowledge of APQP, PPAP, Control Plans and PFMEA
- Experience supporting audits and quality investigations
- Strong problem-solving and root cause analysis skills
- Hands-on approach with a strong shop floor presence
Desirable
- Experience within plastic injection moulding manufacturing
- Knowledge of paint, coating or surface finishing processes
- Understanding of IATF 16949 requirements
- Experience conducting process capability studies (Cp/Cpk)
- Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma exposure
Why Join?
- Join a brand-new UK automotive manufacturing facility during launch phase
- Opportunity to influence quality systems, processes and standards from day one
- Work within an established international manufacturing group
- Clear progression pathway towards Quality Manager
- Long-term career development within a growing operation
Quality Engineer in Basildon employer: Parkside Office Professional
Join a dynamic and innovative global retail business that values its employees and fosters a collaborative work culture. As a Financial Accountant, you will benefit from extensive professional development opportunities, competitive remuneration, and the chance to work in a fast-paced environment that encourages growth and creativity. With a focus on integrity and accuracy, you'll play a vital role in shaping the financial landscape of the company while enjoying the unique advantages of working in a thriving retail sector.
Contact Details:
Parkside Office Professional Recruitment Team
