Quality Inspector

Location: Hailsham, BN27

Salary: Competitive, DOE

Contract: Full time, Permanent

Hours: Monday - Friday, 37 hours - An element of flexibility as to when hours are worked

Benefits: A competitive salary, private medical insurance, 25 days holiday, salary sacrifice company pension, life insurance, a state-of-the-art working environment!

For over 60 years, VACGEN has been driving innovation in ultra-high vacuum (UHV) technology, supporting cutting-edge research across the globe. From NASA and the European Space Agency to CERN, our high-precision products are trusted by world-leading institutions and researchers to deliver results.

We are now recruiting for a Quality Inspector / Trainee Quality Inspector to support inspection, verification, and supplier quality activities, ensuring components and assemblies meet required specifications and quality standards. You will inspect components against drawings and specifications, support supplier quality improvement, and ensure non-conformances are identified, recorded, and resolved efficiently. You will also be trained to carry out complex inspections using advanced metrology equipment.

As our Quality Inspector you will be responsible for:

• Inspecting components and sub-assemblies against drawings and specifications using a range of metrology equipment, including CMM and Faro Arm.
• Raising NCRs, recording non-conformances, and supporting root cause analysis and corrective actions.
• Communicating quality concerns effectively with suppliers and internal teams.
• Building strong relationships with suppliers to support our goal of an excellent first impression and continuous improvement.
• Applying AQL inspection plans and managing supplier quality status within the ERP system.
• Monitoring supplier performance, supporting audits, and contributing to KPI reporting.
• Maintaining accurate inspection records and documentation, ensuring traceability and compliance.
• Completing Product Identification Forms (PIF) and ensuring timely communication of issues.
• Developing skills with a wide range of handheld and advanced inspection equipment.
• Supporting inspection activities at CNC machines, including first-off inspections.
• Ensuring all inspection activities align with ISO standards and internal procedures.

In order to be successful in this role it's essential that you have:

• Experience working in a manufacturing or engineering environment.
• The ability to read and understand technical drawings, including geometric tolerancing.
• Experience or understanding of working with tight tolerances.
• Experience using handheld metrology equipment (e.g. Verniers, micrometers, gauges).
• Good attention to detail and ability to work from documented instructions.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to work across teams and with suppliers.
• Proficiency using Microsoft Office (Word, Excel) and ERP systems.
• A strong understanding of quality processes and standards such as ISO 9001.

It would be great if you had:

• Experience using CMM or Faro Arm equipment.
• Knowledge of quality tools and methodologies such as SPC, AQL, and root cause analysis.
• Experience working with suppliers on quality-related issues and KPIs.
• Machine shop experience.
• Understanding of ISO 2859-1 sampling procedures.
• ONC/HNC qualification in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing, or Quality.
• Knowledge of CNC machining, fabrication, or vacuum industry processes.
• A proactive attitude with a willingness to learn and develop within the role.
• Ability to travel to supplier or client sites when required.

If you feel you have the necessary skills and experience to be successful in this role, click on APPLY today, forwarding an up-to-date copy of your CV for consideration in the first instance. No agencies please.