Quality Assurance – Defence Sector
- Bristol - hybrid working (3 days office / 2 days home)
- Permanent contract
We are seeking an experienced Quality Assurance Engineer to join a growing defence programme delivering critical training and technology solutions in support of the UK defence sector. This is an opportunity to work within a highly collaborative environment focused on quality, compliance, and continuous improvement across complex defence projects.
The successful candidate will play a key role in ensuring quality standards are embedded throughout the project and product lifecycle while working closely with customers, suppliers, and multidisciplinary engineering teams. Defence industry experience is highly desirable.
Key Responsibilities
- Ensure compliance with applicable quality standards, including AS9100 and ISO9001
- Lead resolution of quality-related issues using recognised root cause analysis tools such as 8D and 5 Whys
- Work closely with delivery teams to embed quality processes into project planning and execution
- Act as the primary contact for quality matters with customers and prime contractors
- Conduct internal and external audits to assess quality system effectiveness and identify improvement opportunities
- Support goods inward inspection activities and develop suitable inspection control processes
- Prepare equipment release documentation and Certificates of Conformity
- Develop, monitor, and report against quality metrics
- Manage supplier quality activities, including supplier assessments and selection support
- Investigate non-conformances and recommend corrective actions
- Lead problem-solving sessions with multidisciplinary teams
- Ensure issues are documented and investigated in a timely and effective manner
Skills & Experience
- Previous experience in a Quality Assurance role within engineering or manufacturing environments
- Defence industry experience strongly preferred
- Strong understanding of AS9100, ISO9001, and modern quality tools and methodologies
- Experience with New Product Introduction (NPI) processes
- Ability to interpret engineering drawings and technical documentation
- Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills
- Strong communication and stakeholder management abilities
- Collaborative mindset with the ability to work independently and within teams
- Proficient with Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint
Personal Attributes
- Detail-oriented with a strong commitment to quality and continuous improvement
- Driven, proactive, and delivery-focused
- Able to thrive in a fast-paced, mission-critical environment
- Strong team player with the ability to collaborate across multiple organisations and disciplines
- Professional approach with a focus on achieving outcomes and improving processes
Why Apply?
This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to high-profile defence programmes that support critical national capability. You will join a team that values innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement while offering the chance to work on meaningful and technically challenging projects.
Security Requirements:
Due to the nature of the work, candidates must be eligible to obtain UK security clearance.
Contact Joel Fletcher joel.fletcher@luminate-talent.com / joel.fletcher@rheinmetall.com