Senior Quality Engineer

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Company Description

Every minute of every day, Smiths Detection's threat detection and security screening technology helps to protect people and infrastructure, making the world a safer place.

Smiths Detection, part of Smiths Group is a global leader in the development, manufacture and management of security and detection solutions designed to make the world a safer place. Our technology provides threat detection and screening solutions for customers in our key markets: aviation, ports and borders, defence, and urban security.

Our expertise spans 21 global offices, seven manufacturing sites and five R&D centres, with a global network of 3,000 dedicated colleagues contributing towards over 40 years at the frontline of advances in safety and security.

This results in careers built on variety and the opportunity to work on a range of state-of-the-art solutions, where you can develop your knowledge and experience every day.

Job Description

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.

We are unable to sponsor on this role and successful applicants will undergo UK SC level clearance.

Responsibilities Include:

• Assist the Quality Manager in the development and ongoing management of the company Quality Management System (QMS), including documentation and process reviews.
• Minimize Cost of Poor Quality (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. (Failure mode and effects analysis)
• 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.
• 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.

Qualifications

• 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.
• 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

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.

Additional Information

We offer...

Join us and we'll help build your career, with excellent training and opportunities for career growth across the business, both locally and globally. You'll experience an inclusive environment, with strong leadership and a focus on safety and wellbeing. You'll also have the flexibility to choose from a wide range of benefits to suit your lifestyle, offering you and your family support from a health and wellbeing, financial and lifestyle perspective.

Join us and work for a world-leader, with the benefits and training to reward your dedication and skills. Be part of a team where we are making the world a safer place.

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, colour, 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.

At no time during the hiring process will 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 (Careers - Smiths Group plc)