Mechanical Service Engineer

Location: Near Polegate, East Sussex with regular international travel (France & Germany)

The Role

We are seeking a highly skilled Service / Mechanical Engineer to join a precision engineering organisation. This hybrid role combines elements of Quality Inspection, Supplier Quality Management, and Production Engineering, with a strong emphasis on hands-on mechanical expertise. The successful candidate will play a key role in inspecting, troubleshooting, and resolving complex mechanical and quality issues, both on-site and at supplier locations across Europe. You will act as a technical representative of the business, collaborating closely with suppliers and customers to ensure the highest standards of quality and performance. Frequent travel to France and Germany will be required, often at short notice.

Key Responsibilities

• Inspection & Verification

• Inspect complex mechanical components and sub-assemblies against engineering drawings and specifications
• Utilise metrology equipment including Faro Arm and CMM
• Work to tight tolerances with a strong understanding of GD&T and datum structures
• Apply appropriate AQL inspection plans based on supplier performance and product criticality
• Maintain and update inspection requirements within the ERP system

• Build and maintain strong working relationships with suppliers and vendors
• Act as the primary point of contact for supplier quality issues
• Raise and manage Non-Conformance Reports (NCRs)
• Conduct root cause analysis and ensure effective corrective actions are implemented
• Support supplier audits and monitor supplier KPIs
• Manage supplier status through ERP systems (e.g. Red Flag processes)

• Travel internationally to investigate and resolve mechanical and quality issues
• Diagnose faults and implement corrective actions on-site
• Provide technical support and guidance to suppliers and customers
• Ensure equipment and components meet required quality standards

• Promote a “Right First Time” culture across suppliers and internal processes
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives across the supply chain
• Support enhancements in quality, efficiency, and production processes

• Record and report deviations from drawings and specifications
• Work in accordance with ISO 2859-1:1999 sampling procedures
• Maintain accurate inspection and quality documentation
• Support ISIR and FAIR documentation as required

Essential Skills & Experience

• Minimum of 3+ years’ experience in a precision engineering or manufacturing environment
• Strong mechanical engineering background (e.g. machining, fabrication, or similar)
• Proven experience using Faro Arm and/or CMM equipment
• Ability to read and interpret complex engineering drawings
• Experience working with tight tolerances and GD&T
• Knowledge of ISO 9001:2015 and quality management systems
• Experience managing supplier quality and resolving complex technical issues
• Familiarity with quality tools such as SPC, AQL, and root cause analysis
• Excellent problem-solving and fault-finding skills
• Strong written and verbal communication skills

Desirable Skills & Experience

• Experience in welding and fabrication processes
• Knowledge of ISIR and FAIR documentation
• Qualification at HNC/HND/BTEC level (or higher) in Mechanical or Manufacturing Engineering

Personal Attributes

• Professional and confident, with the ability to represent the business on-site
• Strong communicator, able to engage effectively with suppliers and clients face-to-face
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and travel alone
• Flexible and responsive, with availability to travel at short notice
• High attention to detail and commitment to quality
• Proactive, driven, and focused on continuous improvement

Additional Requirements

• Willingness to travel internationally (France & Germany) on a regular basis
• Full right to work in the UK
• Full UK driving licence (preferred)
• Excellent English communication skills (written and verbal)

Summary

This is a hands-on, mechanically focused engineering role suited to someone who thrives in a problem-solving, field-based environment. You will play a critical role in ensuring product quality, resolving technical challenges, and maintaining strong supplier relationships across an international network.