Quality Engineer Location: Marden, Kent Permanent Full-time position Working pattern: Predominantly on-site, supporting manufacturing operations TPA Recruit is supporting an established engineering manufacturer in the appointment of an experienced Quality Engineer on a contract basis. The position is focused on production and supplier quality, structured problem solving, corrective action, auditing and practical continuous improvement. The role would suit a hands-on Quality Engineer who is comfortable working directly with production and engineering teams, can investigate defects to root cause and has strong knowledge of recognised quality core tools. Key Responsibilities * Develop and implement quality standards and quality control systems across manufacturing operations. * Monitor and analyse quality performance, KPIs and defect trends to identify improvement priorities. * Inspect and test materials, equipment, processes and products against defined quality requirements. * Investigate product and production issues and drive effective corrective actions and sustainable improvements. * Work closely with Production, Engineering, Sales and Purchasing to build quality into processes and products. * Create and maintain work instructions, control plans and other quality/process documentation. * Chair quality improvement meetings and ensure improvement actions are documented and progressed using PDCA. * Create internal and external audit plans, conduct audits and support supplier audit activity. * Work with suppliers to improve quality performance and close identified gaps. * Promote a strong quality culture and lead by example across the manufacturing environment. Skills and Experience * Previous Quality Engineering experience within manufacturing or engineering. * Practical experience of root-cause investigation, corrective action and structured problem solving. * Good knowledge of Control Plans, SPC, FMEA, MSA, PPAP, APQP and 8D. * Experience creating quality/process documentation and supporting production teams. * Internal, external or supplier auditing experience would be strongly advantageous. * Ability to analyse defects and quality data, identify trends and convert findings into practical actions. * SAP experience in a manufacturing environment is required for this contract assignment. * Confident communicator able to work effectively with Production, Engineering, Purchasing, suppliers and customers. Why Join This Business? * Immediate Permanent opportunity within an established UK engineering manufacturer. * Hands-on role with direct impact on product, process and supplier quality. * Broad exposure across production, engineering, purchasing and supplier quality activity. * Opportunity to use the full quality core-tool set in a practical manufacturing environment. * Competitive estimated rate of £35.00-£40.00 per hour depending on experience