Senior Quality Engineer

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SMITHS DETECTION MAKING THE WORLD A SAFER PLACE

Every minute of every day, in nearly every country across the globe, Smiths Detection people and technology make the world a safer place. We safeguard people, business and infrastructure with the latest innovations and screening technology for aviation, ports, borders, defense, and security across 55 countries around the globe

Life At Smiths -

• Global leader : We impact critical systems every day with sites in 17 countries and six centers of research excellence. From pioneering to powering life-changing innovation, we're delivering threat detection and screening solutions to safeguard the world from threat
• Digital growth : A key part of our capability is the integration of digital technology across our business and our operations in more than 55 countries, will be critical to our continued success
• Exciting opportunities : Our growth is creating exciting opportunities to work with experts in physics, chemistry, electronics, mechanics, production, computer science, and AIML
• International environment : With some projects, work requires global collaboration and the potential to travel and grow with the business

Job Purpose:

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Senior Quality Engineer to join our team in the UK. Reporting to the Quality Manager, you will play a critical role in ensuring compliance with applicable standards, regulatory and customer requirements, and achieving our functional and site objectives. You will provide effective support across various business areas including operations, supply chain, field service, sales, technology, and programme management. Your expertise will be crucial in developing and embedding a quality culture, ensuring the principles of our quality management system are upheld.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist the Quality Manager in the development and ongoing management of the company QMS, including documentation and process reviews. (Deputise for them in their absence)
• Minimize COPQ, improve efficiency, and assist in delivering reliable products and services to customers.
• Provide cross-functional support to resolve internal and external concerns.
• Investigate and resolve customer complaints.
• Lead and undertake internal audits (Quality, Information Security, EHS) according to the audit schedule.
• Utilize the 8D methodology for problem resolution and lead root cause analysis for failures and non-conformances.
• Ensure timely closure of Corrective Action and Non-Conformance Reports.
• Participate in the MRB process to manage non-conforming materials.
• Represent Quality in Change Control Board meetings and evaluate ECRs and waivers.
• Analyze data to drive process improvements and enhance product quality.
• Work on cost-saving projects to achieve annual COPQ targets.
• Lead and facilitate customer visits, third-party audits, and FATs.
• Participate in contract reviews and new product introductions, ensuring quality is built into processes.
• Facilitate Design and Process FMEAs.
• Apply core tools like Control Plans and MSA for comprehensive quality planning and control.
• Ensure compliance with company processes, international standards, and regulatory/customer requirements.
• Train and support team members, leading and mentoring in problem-solving and root cause analysis.
• Escalate concerns to the Quality Manager as needed.
• Undertake delegated activities and deputize for the Quality Manager when necessary.
• Strengthen cross-functional collaboration and contribute to achieving functional and strategic objectives.
• Promote a culture of quality and continuous improvement, supporting organizational changes and implementing best practices.

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor's degree or higher in quality disciplines, engineering, or related fields.
• Minimum of 5 years' experience in a similar role within production and design organizations.
• Lead Auditor qualification and extensive auditing experience.
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification.
• Proven experience in diagnosing and resolving complex issue

Knowledge:

• In-depth knowledge of ISO 9001 Quality Management System; familiarity with AS9100 Aerospace standard is advantageous.
• Working knowledge of ISO 27001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001, IPC 610, IPC 620 preferred.
• Understanding of new product introduction and product life cycle processes.
• Proficiency in problem-solving and continuous improvement methodologies, Lean manufacturing, and Six Sigma tools.

Skills:

• Ethical behaviour and objectivity.
• Strong facilitation, leadership, and project management skills.
• Excellent presentation, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities using tools like FMEA, 8D, and Cause & Effect.
• Collaboration and teamwork skills.
• High energy, results-oriented, and self-motivated.
• Time management, planning, and organizational skills.
• Commitment to personal and professional development.

Competencies and Abilities:

• Proficient with handheld inspection tools and capable of conducting RCA.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and SAP.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and specifications.
• Capable of leading and participating in cross-functional discussions.
• Ability to build effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Strong multitasking and prioritization skills.
• Attention to detail, highly organized, and self-motivated.
• Assertive with the ability to work independently.
• Flexible, adaptable, and positive attitude towards change.
• Ability to work in a multicultural team within a matrix environment.

Diversity & Inclusion

We believe that different perspectives and backgrounds are what make a company flourish. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, economic status, disability, age, or any other legally protected characteristics. We are proud to be an inclusive company with values grounded in equality and ethics, where we celebrate, support, and embrace diversity. We have several employee-led Employee Resources Groups (women@work, Black Employees Network, Veterans, Pride Network) providing support, enhancing career development, and contributing to personal development in the work environment and beyond.

At no time during the hiring process will Smiths Detection, Smiths Group, nor any of our recruitment partners ever request payment to enable participation - including, but not limited to, interviews or testing. Avoid fraudulent requests by applying jobs directly through our career's website ( www.smithsdetection.com/careers )or LinkedIn.