Supplier Quality Assurance Engineer (6-Month Contract)

About the Company:
An innovative company, established in 2021, is at the forefront of commercializing next-generation electric motor technology and intellectual property for the emerging electrification aerospace market. Their cutting-edge technology drives hybrid and all-electric propulsion solutions across sectors like Urban Air Mobility (UAM), Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), and General Aviation (GA). Operating from a state-of-the-art 39,000 square foot facility in Oxfordshire, they possess the engineering and manufacturing capacity to produce up to 20,000 units per year.

The Opportunity:
We are seeking a Supplier Quality Assurance Engineer for a 6-month contract. In this role, you will be responsible for ensuring that suppliers are thoroughly assessed, approved, and managed to meet design intent, quality, and process control requirements for production parts and services. This position offers a competitive rate, ideal for professionals looking to make an impact in a high-growth environment.

Key Responsibilities:
*Conduct supplier assessments to approve and onboard new suppliers, both in the UK and overseas, in accordance with the Supplier Quality Requirements Manual (SQRM) and relevant regulations.
*Develop and manage Supplier Quality Plans to address any identified gaps with the SQRM.
*Review and approve supplier APQP, PPAP, and FAIR/LAIR submissions to international standards.
*Collaborate with the Supply Chain team to support the selection of new and preferred suppliers, in line with the commodity strategy for product lines.
*Communicate, implement, and oversee the ongoing governance of the SQRM with suppliers.
*Drive supplier development activities to achieve year-on-year improvements in quality, cost, and delivery (QCD).
*Support the implementation and enhancement of robust processes for supplier management and development.
*Establish and manage supplier scorecards to monitor quality, delivery, and commercial performance, leading improvement programs when targets are not met.
*Support and manage the supplier audit schedule, conduct supplier audits, and oversee corrective action requests.
*Handle supplier product non-conformance issues, including containment, root cause analysis, and corrective/preventative actions.
*Serve as the primary point of contact for supplier deviation requests.
*Support supplier work transfer activities as needed.
*Aid in the implementation and maintenance of systems and processes to ensure compliance with Business Management Systems.

Skills and Experience Required:
*Proven experience in a supplier quality assurance role within an aerospace or highly regulated supply chain environment.
*Strong knowledge of CAA regulations Part21G and Part21J.
*In-depth understanding of AS9100 and Process Auditing, with AS9100 Lead Auditor certification preferred.
*Experience in quality improvement programs and continuous improvement tools such as Pareto, PFMEA, 5S, and 6 Sigma.
*Proficiency in conducting external audits and completing detailed audit reports.
*Familiarity with APQP tools and techniques, with a preference for AS9145 experience.
*Expertise in statistical analysis, process capability, and problem-solving techniques (8D, 5 Why, 6 Sigma, etc.).
*Experience working in a Prime or Tier 1 environment is desirable.
*A positive team player with strong initiative and the ability to work under pressure while managing competing demands.
*Ability to work at a fast pace in a multi-project environment.
*Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
*Full UK driver's license with the ability to travel worldwide.

Why Join Us:
*Be part of a pioneering company in a rapidly growing sector.
*Engage in cutting-edge projects that shape the future of aerospace.
*Work in a dynamic environment that values trust, autonomy, and professional growth.
*Competitive rate offered for the contract duration.

How to Apply:
If you are excited about this opportunity and meet the criteria above, please send your resume and a cover letter to Jamie Birch with the subject line "Supplier Quality Assurance Engineer Application - [Your Name