SQA Engineer

About the Team:
You will join the Supplier Quality team, a small, experienced, and close‑knit group consisting of one SQA Engineer, an SQA Apprentice, and an on‑site inspection partner (Aktrion). The team works hands‑on with suppliers and internal stakeholders to ensure high quality standards across mechanical components. The culture is collaborative, pragmatic, and knowledge‑driven, with a strong focus on ownership and accountability. Engineers are trusted to manage their responsibilities independently and are encouraged to take initiative and apply their expertise in practice. The environment suits self‑starters who value autonomy and direct contribution, with minimal micro‑management.

What you can look forward to as SQA Engineer: 

• Management of quality concerns related to the plant’s mechanical parts suppliers
• Execution of APQP and PPAP activities with inter‑departmental liaison
• Leadership and day‑to‑day support of the SQA Apprentice
• Monitoring and reporting of supplier metrics and KPIs
• Execution of supplier audits when required and support of supplier change request processes as well as supplier cost recovery activities
• Collaboration with functions outside of the plant, including SDE, Purchasing, and Design
• Assurance of compliance with the plant’s Quality Management System (IATF 16949)
• Participation in the PPAC (Product Performance Advisory Committee) process

Your profile as SQA Engineer:

• HND or Degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related engineering discipline (or equivalent)
• Experience in a similar role, preferably within a Tier 1 Automotive environment
• Strong knowledge of mechanical manufacturing processes (semiconductor or electrical knowledge is also desirable)
• Proven experience with APQP and PPAP processes
• Knowledge of SAP, particularly Inventory Management, is highly desirable
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and engineering reports
• Comfortable working in a high pressure, fast paced environment
• Excellent leadership skills, with high standards and the ability to lead by example
• Strong written and verbal communication skills

Why you should choose ZF in Peterlee:

• Compensation up to £46k
• Pension System
• 2x Life Assurance cover
• Health Cashplan