Quality Inspector in Waterbeach

Thermoteknix Systems Ltd, founded in 1982 and based in Cambridge, is a world leader in thermal imaging, night vision, and augmented reality systems. Our award-winning technologies are trusted by defence, security, and industrial customers in over 70 countries. With in-house R&D, cutting-edge innovation, and a global reputation for quality, we design and manufacture solutions that perform in the toughest environments.

The Quality Inspector supports Thermoteknix manufacturing by verifying that materials, components and finished products meet defined requirements, and that production procedures are followed consistently. Working closely with the Quality, Production and Purchasing teams, you will identify defects early, prevent escapes to customers, and help drive a culture of quality assurance rather than end-of-line inspection.

• Ensure only conforming products move forward in the production process.
• Identify defects early - before shipping and potential escape to customers.
• Reduce rework, returns and customer complaints.
• Support production as batches scale up by promoting repeatability through approved procedures.

Key Responsibilities

• Select output samples and perform inspections using appropriate methods (dimensional measurement, functional testing, and comparison to specifications).
• Carry out patrol and stage inspections at strategic points in production, removing non-conforming items from the line and supporting corrective action to prevent recurrence.
• Conduct daily Gemba walks and investigate defects on the red quarantine tables in a timely manner, supporting containment activities led by the HSEQ Manager.
• Complete inspections efficiently and effectively while maintaining awareness of expected ship dates.
• Communicate quality expectations and guidelines across production so quality is understood as enabling on-time, right-first-time delivery.
• Create and maintain inspection documentation and records that provide evidence of completed checks (including measurements, test results and traceability data).
• Maintain quality metrics and records (e.g., defects per day, rework checks, non-conformances and corrective actions).
• Support A3 root cause analysis teams by providing inspection input and insights.
• Champion 5S and housekeeping standards, helping maintain clean and organised workstations (training provided).
• Follow all applicable procedures and work instructions; identify and communicate opportunities for process improvement.
• Immediately report safety issues observed; monitor equipment use to ensure it is safe and well maintained, quarantining any equipment that does not meet requirements.
• Ensure adherence to ESD/FOD controls (wrist straps, PPE, etc.) and that COSHH risk assessments are followed.
• Carry out ESD floor and mat tests sitewide.
• Monitor cleanroom environmental conditions (dust, temperature and humidity).
• Ensure all calibrated equipment is within calibration period; notify the HSEQ Manager if calibration is due within two weeks.
• Manage and carry out calibration of torque tools and manage Go/No-go gauges.

Required Skills & Experience

• Proven experience as a Quality Inspector or in a relevant inspection / manufacturing quality role.
• Knowledge of quality control standards and testing methodologies; familiarity with quality testing machines, systems and automated test procedures.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, specifications and work instructions.
• Basic soldering and quality inspection skills with reference to IPC standards.
• Knowledge of ISO 9001 quality standards; ISO 9001:2015 internal audit experience is an advantage.
• Working knowledge of MS Office and the ability to generate clear, accurate reports.
• Strong written communication and problem-solving skills, with the ability to make timely decisions under pressure.

Personal Attributes

• Firm advocate for quality, able to champion built-in quality and push issues back to root cause with professionalism and persistence.
• Strong interpersonal skills to persuade and influence across teams.
• Highly attentive to detail; dependable, responsible and trustworthy.
• Results-driven, able to work to tight time constraints and manage priorities effectively.
• Comfortable working independently and as part of a team.
• Continuous improvement mindset, proactively identifying and communicating process improvements.

Must have Right to Work in the UK.

Why us?

• Involvement in cutting-edge imaging technologies.
• Collaborative working environment with strong technical expertise.
• Training and career development opportunities.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.