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- Tasks: Lead special processes in aerospace engineering, ensuring quality and compliance.
- Company: SA Thermal Engineering, a leader in aerospace technology.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career development, and a dynamic work environment.
- Other info: Join a collaborative team focused on continuous improvement and operational excellence.
- Why this job: Be the expert in special processes and drive innovation in aerospace.
- Qualifications: Degree in metallurgy or chemical processing with aerospace experience.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
The Senior Special Process Engineer serves as the definitive Subject Matter Expert (SME) and technical owner for all special processes at SA Thermal Engineering (SATE), including Non-Conventional Machining, Welding, Chemical Processing, Heat Treatment, and NDT. This role provides strategic and hands-on oversight for the entire process lifecycle: from machine/plant qualification and Nadcap/customer accreditations to operator certification and complex engineering support. As a key member of the Extended Leadership Team, you will drive operational excellence, manage capital improvements, and lead the development of the special process engineering function.
Key Responsibilities:
- Maintenance of all Nadcap and customer special process approvals, including audit accountability, non-conformance management, deviation/concession compilation and implementation of special process improvements.
- Keeping up to date regarding special process requirements, ensuring all internal procedures are aligned with customer and Nadcap requirements.
- Create/implement internal special process audit plans, including the review and disposition of NCR’s / findings.
- Lead investigations into high-cost quality non-conformances regarding the special processes and support similar projects within the engineering department.
- Creating, maintaining and approving all internal documentation related to the special processes, e.g. procedures, data sheets, inspection methods.
- Direct involvement in the development of special process control through attendance at Nadcap meetings as a Supplier Task Group member.
- Support the Head of Quality regarding customer quality issues (i.e. NoE’s) and take the lead on the resultant problem-solving projects.
- REACH management, including sub-contract processes, and the approval of changes to the special processes where safety concerns are identified.
- Review and approval of all changes for special processes, including disposition of ‘return to service’ forms regarding maintenance of special process equipment.
- Process owner and key contact for all matters related to special processes, including coordinating with supporting external parties (e.g. NDT level 3) if needed.
- Supporting Quality in process audits - internal, subcontractor, customer and 3rd party (Nadcap), responding to queries on specialist areas of responsibility.
- External Stakeholder management: External level 3 NDT specialist, Nadcap auditors, and customer special process technical subject matter experts.
- Leading and driving continuous improvement initiatives (efficiency, quality) and staying on top of technological evolutions.
- Supporting NPI projects as Special Process lead.
- Advisor to the Material Review Board (MRB) for special process-related topics as required.
- Ensuring that 'best practice' engineering and production techniques are used.
- Leading, managing and developing the Special Process Engineer, overseeing their work activities and performance.
- Provide coaching and mentoring to assist in the development of special process engineers.
- Provide input to strategic, operational and resource planning as part of the extended leadership team.
- Recommend improvements that may require capex approval or be in future budgets and provide supporting financials.
- Deputise for Head of Quality.
Key Requirements:
- Degree/HNC/HND qualified with a background in metallurgy and/or chemical processing.
- Solid understanding of aerospace materials - titanium, nickel alloys, stainless steel, & aluminium.
- Able to quickly interpret and apply engineering, quality and H&S standards.
- Strong understanding of engineering drawings.
- Extensive knowledge of Nadcap requirements (for applicable processes), previous Nadcap audit experience.
- Understanding of Aerospace specifications and approvals – Relating to AS9100 and AS13100.
- Knowledge of aerospace procedures and documentation, including the creation of FAIRs, production permits/concessions, PFMEA’s, etc.
- Line management experience desirable.
- Demonstrates a pragmatic approach to problem solving.
- Self-motivated, task orientated, organised with excellent time management skills.
- Engineering-focused with a commercial awareness.
- Strong communication skills (written and verbal).
- Excellent interpersonal skills.
- Computer literate, including MS Office.
- Working knowledge of MRP systems, preferably Syspro.
Senior Special Process Engineer in Royston employer: Senior Aerospace Thermal Engineering
Contact Detail:
Senior Aerospace Thermal Engineering Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Special Process Engineer in Royston
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts on LinkedIn or attend relevant events. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can land you that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its processes. We should be ready to discuss how our skills align with their needs, especially in special processes like welding and NDT. Show them you’re the SME they need!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your answers to common interview questions, but keep it natural. We want to sound confident and knowledgeable about aerospace materials and Nadcap requirements without sounding rehearsed.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. It shows we’re genuinely interested and keeps us fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Special Process Engineer in Royston
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Special Process Engineer role. Highlight your experience with special processes, Nadcap requirements, and any relevant engineering qualifications. We want to see how your background aligns with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your expertise in areas like Non-Conventional Machining or Welding. Let us know why you’re excited about joining StudySmarter!
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills: In your application, don’t forget to highlight your problem-solving skills. Share examples of how you've tackled complex engineering challenges or improved processes in previous roles. We love seeing candidates who can think critically and drive continuous improvement!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Senior Aerospace Thermal Engineering
✨Know Your Special Processes
Make sure you brush up on all the special processes mentioned in the job description, like Non-Conventional Machining and NDT. Be ready to discuss your experience with these processes and how you've managed them in previous roles.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Nadcap Requirements
Since Nadcap is a big part of this role, it’s crucial to understand its requirements inside out. Prepare examples of how you've handled Nadcap audits or improvements in the past, as this will show your expertise and readiness for the position.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
This role involves tackling high-cost quality non-conformances, so be prepared to share specific examples of challenges you've faced and how you resolved them. Highlight your pragmatic approach and any continuous improvement initiatives you've led.
✨Communicate Effectively
Strong communication skills are key for this position. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently, especially when discussing technical topics. Remember, you’ll need to interact with various stakeholders, so being personable and approachable is a plus!