Supplier Quality Engineer / Supplier Quality Engineeress

Job Opportunity: Supplier Quality Engineer

Independent Forgings and Alloys (IFA), one of Europe's leading aerospace forging and precision manufacturing companies, is expanding its team in Sheffield. We are looking for a dedicated Supplier Quality Engineer to join our highly respected aerospace manufacturing organization. In this role, you will collaborate closely with Procurement, Quality, Manufacturing, and external suppliers, playing a vital role in ensuring supplier performance, product quality, and supply chain compliance within one of the most advanced forging operations in Europe.

Company Overview: Independent Forgings and Alloys

Independent Forgings and Alloys Ltd (IFA) stands out as the only single-sited forge globally equipped with open-die radial, press, hammer & ring rolling, closed-die extrusion, drop stamp, and blade forging capabilities. Our extensive forging and manufacturing processes enable us to provide a fully integrated metals service center, covering everything from ingot and billet production to fully tested and released machined products.

As a key supplier to the global aerospace sector, IFA manufactures critical forged components for some of the most demanding aerospace applications, adhering to the highest standards of quality, compliance, and manufacturing excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage supplier quality performance across the aerospace supply chain.
• Conduct supplier audits, assessments, and qualification activities in accordance with customer and regulatory requirements.
• Support supplier approval and supplier development programs.
• Drive continuous improvement activities with suppliers to enhance quality, delivery, and operational performance.
• Investigate supplier-related non-conformances and quality issues utilizing structured problem-solving techniques.
• Lead root cause analysis and corrective action activities with suppliers.
• Monitor supplier KPIs and performance metrics to identify trends and improvement opportunities.
• Ensure supplier compliance with ISO 9001, AS9100, NADCAP, and other customer-specific aerospace quality requirements.
• Work closely with Procurement, Manufacturing, Engineering, and Quality teams to address supplier quality concerns.
• Review supplier documentation, including quality plans, process controls, FAIRs, certification records, and supplier approvals.
• Support customer audits, supplier audits, and third-party assessments.
• Participate in supplier risk assessments and performance reviews.
• Develop and maintain supplier quality procedures, processes, and documentation.
• Support new supplier onboarding and new product introduction activities.
• Perform any other reasonable duties as requested by management.

Qualifications and Experience

• Previous experience in a Supplier Quality Engineer, Quality Engineer, or Supplier Development role.
• Proven experience within an aerospace manufacturing environment is highly desirable.
• Strong knowledge of supplier quality assurance methodologies and quality management systems.
• Experience conducting supplier audits and managing supplier performance.
• Experience in investigating non-conformances and implementing corrective and preventive actions.
• Strong root cause analysis and problem-solving skills.
• Familiarity with quality tools and methodologies such as 8D, FMEA, PFMEA, SPC, APQP, and RCCA.
• Experience working with engineering drawings, specifications, and technical documentation.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to build strong working relationships with suppliers and internal teams.
• Experience supporting customer audits and regulatory compliance activities is advantageous.
• Lead Auditor qualification or experience auditing to ISO 9001, AS9100, or NADCAP standards is a plus.

Salary and Benefits

• Starting salary between £40,000 - £50,000, depending on experience.
• Permanent position with long-term career opportunities.
• Training and professional development support.
• Opportunity to work in an advanced aerospace manufacturing environment.
• 33 days of holiday.
• Pension scheme with employer contribution.
• Bonus scheme and Westfield cash plan.
• On-site parking available.

To apply for this exciting opportunity, please apply online using the form below. Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

For any inquiries, please contact Glyn Dobb at W Talent Recruitment, who will conduct the first-stage pre-screen interview.