Quality Engineer - Aerospace/Defence | 12-Month FTC | Basildon

Location: Basildon
Contract: 12-Month Fixed-Term Contract
Hours: Monday to Friday, 40 hours per week
Salary: -44k.

First Achieve''s client, a leading manufacturer within the aerospace and defence industry, is seeking a Quality Engineer to join their high-performing team on a fixed-term basis. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a business focused on delivering excellence in Quality, Cost, and Delivery.

Role Purpose:

As Quality Engineer, you will provide expert guidance to ensure compliance with relevant standards, support ongoing and new production, and drive continuous improvement initiatives across the business.

Key Responsibilities:

• Ensure all activities align with Health, Safety, and Environmental policies.
• Manage and resolve customer complaints using 8D methodology, root cause analysis, and corrective action plans.
• Conduct internal audits (AS9100, NADCAP), support external audits and customer visits, and manage non-conformance reports.
• Lead MRB activities and interpret drawings/standards within workshop environments.
• Engage with suppliers through audits, complaints, and communications; update Approved Supplier List and assist in selection processes.
• Oversee all quality aspects of New Product Introduction (NPI) using tools such as PPAP, FMEA, APQP, and produce First Article Inspection Reports (FAIRs).
• Lead and support process improvements using Lean Six Sigma, RCA, and data analysis.
• Maintain and improve the Quality Management System (QMS), ensuring compliance across all business functions.
• Deliver training to internal teams and support the development of business systems (e.g., CC database, Aventa/Factory Master).

What We''re Looking For:

• Degree in Engineering/Quality discipline or equivalent relevant experience.
• Experience in aerospace or defence manufacturing preferred.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage all levels of the business.
• Analytical and problem-solving mindset with a drive for continuous improvement.
• Self-starter who can manage and prioritise a varied workload effectively.