Quality Manager

Quality Manager / Lead Inspector

Precision Engineering | Aerospace | Defence | Nuclear

Location: Poole, Dorset
Job Type: Full-time, Permanent

The Opportunity

An established precision engineering business in Poole is seeking an experienced Quality Manager / Lead Inspector to take ownership of its quality function.

This is a hands-on leadership role, combining responsibility for the Quality Management System, team management and customer quality requirements with practical dimensional inspection of precision-engineered components.

The business supplies the Aerospace, Defence and Nuclear sectors and is part of a growing engineering group investing in its people, equipment and future development.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and develop the Quality Department and inspection team.
• Maintain and continually improve the AS9100 / BS EN ISO 9001 Quality Management System.
• Plan and conduct internal, customer and supplier audits.
• Manage non-conformances, concessions, production permits and customer 8D reports.
• Liaise with customer Quality Departments to resolve issues and ensure compliance.
• Manage calibration systems and supplier quality approvals.
• Drive root cause analysis, corrective actions and continuous improvement.
• Produce quality performance reports and identify improvement opportunities.
• Carry out dimensional inspection of precision components, including in-process and procured parts.
• Operate and programme fixed and portable Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMMs).
• Lead First Article Inspection (FAI) activities and maintain accurate documentation and traceability.

Essential Requirements

• Experience in quality management or inspection within precision engineering or manufacturing, ideally Aerospace, Defence or Nuclear.
• Strong knowledge of AS9100 and/or BS EN ISO 9001.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings and CAD models, including geometric tolerances and weld symbols.
• Practical metrology experience, including CMM operation and programming.
• Experience managing non-conformances, root cause analysis and 8D problem-solving.
• Proven team leadership or management ability.
• Relevant management qualification or substantial experience in a similar role.

Desirable

• Knowledge of AS9102 First Article Inspection requirements.
• Experience of precision machining and welding processes.
• Familiarity with MRP / ERP systems.
• Internal auditor training and/or NVQ Level 4 or above.

Hours and Benefits

• 39 hours per week: Monday to Thursday, 7:30am–4:30pm; Friday, 7:30am–12:30pm.
• 25 days' annual leave plus bank holidays.
• Private medical scheme after 12 months' service.
• Life assurance.
• Workwear provided.
• Occasional extended hours may be required.

Apply Now

If you have the technical expertise and leadership experience to manage a quality function while remaining hands-on with inspection, apply today to be considered for this opportunity.