Full job descriptionJob Title: Lead Auditor
Location: Bedfordshire
Rate: £50,000 pa pro rata (6 month FTC)


The Role:
So, what will you be doing as a Lead Auditor …


To support the successful preparation and delivery of the AS9100 Rev D recertification audit by assessing current quality management systems, identifying gaps, and ensuring compliance across all business processes. The role will drive audit readiness, corrective actions, and continuous improvement activities within a dynamic defence engineering environment.


Key Responsibilities


Quality Management & Compliance


*Conduct detailed gap analysis between existing processes and AS9100 Rev D requirements
*Produce structured reports highlighting non-compliance areas and prioritised corrective actions
*Ensure all documentation and quality records meet regulatory and organisational standards


Audit Planning & Execution


*Develop and deliver internal audit schedules covering product, process, and management systems
*Create audit checklists aligned to AS9100 requirements
*Conduct audits through interviews, documentation reviews, and on-site observations
*Evaluate effectiveness and compliance of systems and processes


Non-Conformance & Corrective Action Management


*Raise, manage, and track Non-Conformance Reports (NCRs)
*Lead root cause analysis activities using recognised methodologies
*Define, implement, and verify corrective and preventive actions (CAPAs)
*Ensure timely closure and effectiveness of all corrective actions


Stakeholder Engagement


*Work collaboratively with process owners and operational teams to resolve findings
*Provide guidance on compliance requirements and quality standards
*Facilitate discussions to support implementation of improvements


Audit Readiness & Reporting


*Monitor and report progress against audit readiness plans
*Present audit status, risks, and improvement activities to senior management
*Support external audit preparation and execution


Continuous Improvement


*Contribute to ongoing quality improvements across manufacturing and engineering processes
*Support development and refinement of inspection, testing, and evaluation methods


Required Skills


*Strong working knowledge of AS9100 Revision D
*Proven experience as a Lead Auditor within a regulated environment
*Demonstrable experience in:*Internal and external auditing
*Quality management systems in manufacturing/engineering
*Root cause analysis and CAPA processes

*Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
*Effective stakeholder engagement and communication abilities


Desirable Skills


*Certification in Lean and/or Six Sigma methodologies
*Experience within the aerospace, defence, or complex engineering sectors.


My client is keen to get this position filled ASAP, so if you feel you have the skills and desire to provide passion and drive as the next Lead Auditor, this is the opportunity for you!


You will need to have the ability to obtain SC level security clearance.


So, if you are interested in joining a well-established, renowned, globally recognised organisation working with experts in their field as the next Lead Auditor, hit that apply button now!




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