Primary Purpose of Position
We are seeking an experienced and professional AQL Inspector/ Internal Auditor with strong knowledge of PPE/Industrial garments. The role is responsible for conducting AQL inspections, supporting quality assurance standards, and conducting audits across a number of UK sites and supplier locations.
The successful candidate will be confident, friendly, and approachable, with the ability to collaborate constructively with internal teams, suppliers, factories, and external stakeholders. This role requires someone who is thorough and quality-focused, while maintaining a practical, collaborative, and non-officious approach.
Key performance indicators
· Inspect required levels of garments / products for each delivery.
· Audit suppliers according to audit plan.
Key Responsibilities
· Conduct AQL inspections on firefighter PPE, industrial PPE garments, technical fabrics, trims, components, and finished products.
· Inspect products against approved specifications, quality standards, construction requirements, and agreed acceptance criteria.
· Identify defects, non-conformances, and quality concerns, ensuring clear reporting and appropriate follow-up actions.
· Prepare accurate inspection reports, audit findings, and quality documentation in a clear and timely manner.
· Support corrective and preventive actions following inspection or audit findings.
· Travel within the UK to perform inspections, internal audits, supplier visits, and quality reviews.
· Promote a practical, supportive, and collaborative approach to quality assurance and continuous improvement.
Required Experience and Skills
· Good understanding of garment construction, fabric quality, manufacturing processes, and finished product assessment.
· Strong understanding of and experience in AQL inspection procedures, defect classification, and garment quality standards.
· Proven experience conducting internal audits or supporting quality management system audits.
· Excellent attention to detail, with strong written reporting and documentation skills.
· Confident and clear communicator who can engage professionally with a range of people and departments.
· Willing and able to independently travel throughout the UK as required.
· Comfortable working fully on-site, with no working from home arrangement.
· Full driving license
Desirable
· Formal internal auditor training or a recognised audit qualification.
· Experience working with regulated PPE products or technical textile standards.
· Knowledge of quality management systems, compliance processes, and continuous improvement methods.
· Knowledge of firefighter PPE, industrial PPE, protective clothing, performance garments, or technical textile products.
Accountability
· Accuracy and timeliness of inspections and audits.
· Integrity of records
· Prompt escalation of nonconformances to databases and Management
Confidentiality
· Maintain strict confidentiality regarding product data, development plans, specifications, supplier information and any other commercially sensitive information.
Personal Attributes
· Confident, friendly, and approachable character.
· Professional and quality-driven without being overly formal or officious.
· Practical, collaborative, and solutions focused.
· Reliable, organised, and able to manage travel and site-based work effectively.
· Demonstrates ownership by identifying issues early and following up.
· Able to build positive working relationships while maintaining high quality standards.
Working Arrangements
This is a UK-based, on-site role requiring travel within the UK. The position is not suitable for working from home.
Pay: £30,000.00-£35,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company events
- On-site parking
Work Location: In person