Quality Controller
Aircraft Research Association (ARA) is a unique SME and the UK’s leading independent transonic wind tunnel with a passionate workforce of engineering and aerodynamic professionals. We are a leading specialist in aerodynamic research providing complementary services and solutions to international aerospace and defence clients. Our clients include Saab, Bombardier, Boeing, Turkish Aerospace, Lockheed Martin, Airbus, Comac and BAE Systems.
Typical projects include producing scaled-down military and civilian aircraft models, comprising multiple parts, which are assembled together and used as highly accurate forces/pressures measuring devices within the on-site high-speed (transonic) wind tunnel.
At ARA We are the leading specialist in aerodynamic research providing complementary services and solutions to international aerospace and defence clients. Our clients include Saab, Bombardier, Boeing, Turkish Aerospace, Lockheed Martin, Airbus, Comac and BAE Systems.
Our site in Bedford centres around our impressive transonic wind tunnel – the equipment which drives it – whilst the research performed is often unique to ARA and involves many bespoke processes.
Due to continued growth, we now have the opportunity to recruit an experienced and motivated Quality Controller to join our Quality Management team, reporting into the Head of Safety, Health, Environment and Quality (SHEQ)
Salary range: £40,000 – £45,000 (depending on experience)
Grade: 4B
Typical hours: Full time, 38 hours per week
What you will get the chance to do:
- Provide guidance and support in all Quality related matters ensuring quality standards are maintained.
- Prepare and ensure the effective deployment and adherence to Quality associated policies, procedures and standards across the organisation.
- Collaborate with departments and operational areas to understand business requirements, providing advice and support on Quality matters.
- Lead, facilitate, and support non – conformance activities, ensuring that root causes are identified and effective corrective actions are communicated and implemented.
- Oversee and support Quality associated assessments, including regulatory audits and process confirmations
- Ensure ARA staff is compliant with relevant training and competence requirements
- Demonstrate and encourage the company’s values and behaviours to a high standard and sets and example.
What we would like to see:
- Proven experience in a similar role, ideally within a manufacturing or engineering environment.
- In depth knowledge of Quality management principles and a broad understanding of related disciplines, supported by relevant experience or formal qualifications.
- Minimum HNC or degree qualified in a relevant technical discipline, or equivalent experience.
- Understanding and practical application of ISO 9001
- Trained auditor with experience in conducting audits.
- Strong appreciation of the importance of continuous improvement principles and their application.
- Ability to interpret and apply industry standards and legislative requirements.
- Be a Quality subject matter expert with the ability to interpret specifications, procedures, and contract requirements, and communicate them effectively.
This is an exciting permanent opportunity for the right person to be part of a successful and established organisation, operating in an excellent facility. In return, we offer a range of benefits including: a competitive salary and pension scheme, free parking, employee assistance programme, private health insurance and 26 days’ annual leave plus Bank Holidays (increasing with length of service after 5 years’ service).
The successful candidate must satisfy security clearance requirements – including the last 5 years continual UK residency.
Aircraft Research Association Ltd is proud to be an Equal Opportunities Employer. We recognise the value in an inclusive and diverse workforce and we welcome applications from all suitably qualified people.
If you think you are the person we are looking for, please complete the form below.
