Job Title: Quality Engineer / Inspector
Location: Derby
Reporting to: Quality Manager
Hours: Monday-Friday: 8:00am - 4:00pm (37.5 hours per week)
Rate of Pay: £30,000 - £40,000 per annum (DOE), plus benefits
Start date: Immediate
To contribute to Aerodyn Ltd.’s growth by ensuring the highest quality standards for components entering and leaving the slipring facility. This role involves inspecting supply chain products including conducting First Article Inspection (FAI, AS9102) and supporting and improving quality systems, processes, and performance across the business.
Responsibilities include verifying the accuracy of supplier component documentation—such as Certificates of Conformance (CofC), FAIs and Critical dimension reports, and material certifications. Additional wider activities would include leading root cause investigations, driving corrective actions and supporting continuous improvement initiatives.
The position requires the ability to document findings and collaborate with Engineering, Purchasing and Operations teams, in support of the Quality Manager. We seek individuals with a proactive, “can-do” attitude, a strong commitment to skills development, and a focus on achieving quality, cost, and delivery objectives.
Key Responsibilities:
Inspection and Compliance:
- Able to read Engineering Drawings with a working knowledge of Geometrical Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T) to ASME Y14.5
- Fully understand AS9102 FAIR requirements and have the capability to undertake the process
- Support the Quality Manager in creation and execution of inspection plans
- Complete first-off and last-off inspection and checks using mechanical measuring equipment, acting as release signatory for procured components and goods for shipment to customer
- Ensure all inspection equipment is calibrated and used in line with procedures
- Maintain accurate inspection documentation and update records using ERP & associated Quality systems
- Record non-conformances and ensure traceability of all inspected parts, including disposition of non-conforming material
Quality Engineering & Process Improvement:
- Lead root cause analysis activities using structured problem-solving methodologies (e.g., 8D, 5 Whys, Fishbone)
- Drive corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) to closure, ensuring action effectiveness is verified
- Analyse quality data and KPIs to identify trends, risks, and improvement opportunities
- Support and improve manufacturing and inspection processes to enhance product quality
- Participate in design and process reviews, ensuring quality is built into products and processes from the outset
- Develop and maintain control plans, PFMEA, and process documentation where required
- Support new product introduction (NPI) activities, including validation and verification processes
Supplier & Customer Quality:
- Support supplier quality activities including supplier evaluation, performance monitoring, and development
- Assist with supplier non-conformance management and corrective action follow-up
- Support customer investigations, returns (RMA), and quality-related queries
- Interface with customers and auditors as required, to demonstrate compliance with quality standards
Systems & Compliance:
- Work in accordance with internal SOPs, Quality policies, and Health & Safety requirements
- Support maintenance and continuous improvement of the Quality Management System (QMS) to ISO9001 and support attainment of the AS9100 standard
- Participate in internal and external audits and support audit preparation and follow-up actions
- Ensure compliance with regulatory, customer, and internal quality requirements
Continuous Improvement & Lean:
- Support and lead continuous improvement and Lean initiatives, including 5S activities
- Identify and implement cost-saving initiatives and productivity improvements
- Promote a culture of quality awareness and right-first-time principles across the business
General Duties & Requirements:
- Handle components correctly to avoid damage and maintain high safety standards
- Communicate inspection and quality findings clearly and concisely to Engineering and Operations teams
- Be able to work to inspection plans and use initiative to solve problems
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, managing multiple priorities and tight deadlines
- Flexible approach to handle interruptions and changes, with capability to work independently or as part of a team
- Accountable for achieving production efficiency targets
- Employs the 5S & FOD principles daily and actively contributes to site improvements
- Support customers when needed with flexibility in working hours and locations
- Self-motivated with strong problem-solving skills
- Consistent attention to quality standards and precision
- Clear oral and written communication skills
- Excellent time management and organisational skills
Qualifications & Competencies:
- HNC or equivalent in Engineering, or extensive experience in an Aerospace Quality environment
- Minimum 5 years’ experience in mechanical inspection and/or quality engineering
- Strong experience with inspection and measuring equipment
- Proficient in reading and interpreting Engineering drawings
- Knowledge of machined parts, finishing processes, and workmanship standards
- Strong understanding of AS9100, AS9102, and inspection sampling plans
- Experience with root cause analysis and problem-solving methodologies (8D, RCCA, etc.)
- Experience using quality tools such as PFMEA, control plans, and statistical analysis
- Experience with microscopes for inspection/detection
- Willingness to develop and grow professionally within the business
Physical Demands & Locations:
- Predominately a manufacturing and office environment however, there shall be the physical demands of working within cells, stores and shop floor areas. Whilst performing the physical duties of this role, the jobholder shall be required to be active through standing, walking, bending, carrying, and the possible use of hand tools/test equipment in accordance with site Manual Handling and site Health & Safety Policy.
- From time to time, it may be necessary for the jobholder to undertake reasonable tasks on behalf of the company, which would not normally be regarded as part of the role. The jobholder shall carry these out to the best of their ability. To undertake ad hoc and other technical duties when requested by their manager or a member of the senior management team.
- Work duties will require operating within various areas of the facility including but not limited to the assembly/test area, machine area, stores, as required.
- The position may require travel in the UK. The jobholder should hold a full UK driving licence.
No recruitment agencies please.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: £30,000.00-£40,000.00 per year
Ability to commute/relocate:
- Derby DE21 7NJ: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Language:
Work authorisation:
- United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person
