At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead special processes in aerospace engineering and drive operational excellence.
- Company: Join Senior Aerospace Thermal Engineering, a leader in high-temperature aerospace components.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career development, and a chance to work with cutting-edge materials.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for mentorship and leadership development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in aerospace by innovating with advanced materials and processes.
- Qualifications: Degree in metallurgy or chemical processing; experience with aerospace materials is essential.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
Company Description
Senior Aerospace Thermal Engineering, located in Royston, UK, is a leading specialist in the manufacture of high-temperature aerospace components, thermal insulation heat shields, and complex fabricated assemblies. As part of Senior plc, the company supplies major global aero-engine and airframe OEMs, with a strong focus on forming hard-to-shape metals such as Titanium and Inconel. SATE's capabilities include advanced hot and cold forming processes-particularly double- and triple-action hot draw forming using six dedicated presses. The business works extensively with high-performance materials including Titanium alloys (Ti 6AL-4V, TA10, TA21), Inconel grades (625, 718), Nimonics, and Jethete to deliver reliable solutions for demanding, high-temperature aerospace applications.
Job Description
Reporting to: Head of Quality
Direct Reports: Special Process Engineer
Purpose of Role:
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.
Company Statement:
This job description is not intended to establish a total definition of a job but to outline duties. This job description will be amended at the discretion of management.
Qualifications 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.
Senior Special Processes Engineer & QA Leader employer: Senior plc
Senior Aerospace Thermal Engineering in Royston, UK, is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee growth and development within a collaborative and innovative work culture. With a strong focus on advanced aerospace technologies, employees benefit from hands-on experience with cutting-edge materials and processes, alongside opportunities for continuous improvement initiatives and leadership roles. The company fosters a supportive environment where every team member's contributions are valued, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers in the aerospace sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Special Processes Engineer & QA Leader
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry professionals on LinkedIn or attend aerospace events. We can’t stress enough how personal connections can open doors that applications alone can’t.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its processes. We want you to be able to discuss how your skills in special processes can directly benefit their operations. Show them you’re not just another candidate!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! You should be able to clearly articulate your experience with materials like Titanium and Inconel, and how you’ve driven improvements in past roles. We believe confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Special Processes Engineer & QA Leader
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Special Processes Engineer role. Highlight your experience with aerospace materials and special processes, as well as any relevant 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. Share specific examples of your achievements in quality assurance and process engineering that relate to our needs at Senior Aerospace Thermal Engineering.
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:As a Subject Matter Expert, we need to see your technical skills front and centre. Be sure to mention your experience with Nadcap approvals, non-conformance management, and any other relevant processes. This will help us understand your depth of knowledge!
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 plc
✨Know Your Materials
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of aerospace materials, especially Titanium and Inconel. Be ready to discuss their properties and applications in high-temperature environments, as this will show your expertise and relevance to the role.
✨Demonstrate Process Knowledge
Familiarise yourself with special processes like Non-Conventional Machining, Welding, and Heat Treatment. Prepare examples from your past experience where you've successfully managed these processes or led improvements, as this will highlight your hands-on expertise.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
As a Senior Special Process Engineer, you'll be leading teams and driving initiatives. Think of specific instances where you've coached or mentored others, and be ready to share how you’ve contributed to operational excellence and team development.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions related to Nadcap and customer approvals, as well as non-conformance management. Review relevant standards and be prepared to discuss how you've handled audits or quality issues in the past, demonstrating your problem-solving skills.
