Safran Engineering Services UK Limited
APQP Specialist - 12m Inside IR35 Contractor
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APQP Specialist (Contractor) – 12-Month Role
Location: Pitstone, Hertfordshire (Inside IR35 basis only, full-time) Duration: 12 months
Saffran Engineering Services is expanding its capabilities and is seeking an APQP Specialist to ensure regulatory, safety, and customer compliance before production begins. You will focus on risk mitigation, process compliance, and continuous improvement in aerospace design and development.
About the Role
As an APQP Specialist, you will:
- Oversee design assurance for airworthiness compliance, adhering to EASA/CAA Part 21J and Design Organisation Handbook (DOH) requirements.
- Lead design reviews (PDR/ CDR) and initiate DEF (Design Engineering Function) activities.
- Maintain 100% compliance with EASA/CAA regulations, customer requirements, and AS9100 standards.
- Support PFMEA/DFMEA updates, FAIRs/PPAP submissions, and NPI (New Product Introduction) using APQP, FMEA, and SPC frameworks.
- Engage with production, engineering, configuration, and support teams on defect prevention, root cause analysis (RCAA/FRACA), and corrective action sustainment.
- Resolve quality escapes and facilitate customer approvals with active programme coordination.
- Conduct audits of designs and software tools for conformity with ISO9001 and AS9100 compliance.
- Provide NCR closeout oversight and audit session leadership where required.
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Principal Accountabilities
- Ensure all design documentation meets EASA/CAA Part 21J, customer requirements, and airworthiness standards.
- Support PDR/CDR reviews and DEF process integration, embedding quality, safety, and producibility principles.
- Review/configuration management of technical documentation for compliance validation.
- Lead RCCA/FRACA/FMEA activities, implementing corrective actions to prevent in-service failures.
- Deploy APQP tools to enhance designs prior to full production readiness.
- Champion DFMEA/PFMEA updates during development and support Quality Champion responsibilities.
- Manage internal/external FAIRs/PPAPs approvals and report status.
- Liaise with customers, EASA/CAA, and ISO auditors on quality escapes, NCR closeouts, and compliance sessions.
- Ensure software/audit methodologies align with AS9100 (preferably engaged in lead auditor training).
Requirements
Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s/Master’s degree in aerospace engineering, science, or engineering (highly desirable).
- 3–5 years’ experience in:
- Aerospace design & development (JAR21/20/145 regulatory domains preferred).
- Quality control, compliance assurance, or configuration management, or supporting new production environments.
- Robust five sense audit skills with lead auditor training experience recommended.
- Experience with 8D, RCCA, FRACA, and DMAIC (Six Sigma qualification: Black Belt preferred; Green Belt desirable).
- Proven ability to interpret technical documents, CAD, and engineering drawings for consistency and compliance.
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Technical Skills
- Deep familiarity with:
- APQP, PPAP, FMEA, and Statistical Process Control (SPC) tools.
- Regulatory standards: EASA/CAA Part 21J (production organisation), Design Organisation Approval, ISO9001, and AS9100.
- Aerospace data and configuration management systems.
- Strong problem-solving mindset with attention to detail on complex technical issues.
Work Style
- Independently drives process improvement and sustains corrective actions.
- Works well under limited professional standards yet delivers high integrity.
- Transition-readiness into flexible UK production environment.
Benefits & Terms
- Inside IR35 contractor basis (description guidance retained for each specific DAT; provide Data Handling conditions as raised by relevant party concerns).
- Highly collaborative company culture with growing capabilities in aerospace.
- Early finish Friday: 08:00–16:45 (Mon–Thu), 08:00–12:00 (Fri).
- On-site canteen available for contracted employees.
Apply now to join a firm committed to excellence in aerospace testing, monitoring, and technical infrastructure.
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