Full job descriptionBaltic Recruitment are currently recruiting for a Permanent Quality Technician for a client located in Darlaston. This role is working on a Night Shift, working with Quality, NPI, Engineering & Operations Teams.


The Quality Technician protects the customer by ensuring stable processes, detecting non-conformance early, and escalating risks in real time, ensures each production shift consistently meets customer and internal quality requirements whilst providing immediate problem-solving support to the production team.


Quality Technician Main Duties and Responsibilities:*First-Offs / Start-Up Validation*Complete First-Off inspections for all machining and assembly lines at start-up, tool changes, batch changes, and resets.
*Verify parts against engineering drawings, control plans, and critical-to-quality (CTQ/CSI) characteristics.
*Sign off First-Off documentation and release machines for production.
*Escalate and stop production where First-Off criteria are not fully met.

*Machine Parameter Checks*Validate critical machine settings and parameters per standardized work, control plan, and Poka-Yoke requirements.
*Ensure machine parameter verification is completed on time and accurately recorded.
*Raise abnormality reports and initiate escalation if parameters deviate from standards.

*End-of-Line (EOL) Inspection & Audit*Conduct regular in-shift EOL audits against defined audit checklists and customer standards.
*Complete layered process audits (LPAs), product audits, torque audits, assembly checks, and functional verifications.
*Identify recurring defects and trend audit data for review with QE and Production Supervisors.
*Immediately isolate suspect product when audit failures occur.

*Abnormal Process / Alternative Process Verification*Verify alternative or abnormal processes (e.g., manual rework, special tooling, repaired equipment).
*Check that deviations are authorised (concessions, rework instructions).
*Monitor reworked parts for 100% confirmation checks where required.
*Report unauthorised process changes or deviations immediately.

*CMM Support (Set-Up / FPPO Parts)*Complete First Piece Process Off (FPPO)/CMM dimensional verification.
*Perform basic CMM routines.
*Communicate results to production supervisors and prevent machine release until compliance is confirmed.
*Maintain traceability of FPPO documentation and approval status.

*Containment: Supplier & Customer Issues*Lead or support containment activities when defects are identified internally, by the customer, or from suppliers.
*Implement robust quarantine of suspect parts, WIP, and raw materials.
*Execute 100% inspection or controlled shipping where required.
*Provide daily updates on containment status and defect trends.
*Collaborate with QE on root cause, sorting, and verification activities.

*Support Problem Solving*Participate in shift-level problem solving, using 5-Why, Ishikawa, 8D, or DMAIC tools.
*Supply data, samples, and measurement results to Engineering and Quality teams.
*Help validate containment and corrective actions on the shop floor.
*Support process monitoring to ensure recurrence prevention.

*Additional responsibilities*Perform in-process inspections per control plan frequency.
*Ensure all scrap, rework, and deviations are identified and recorded correctly.
*Verify packaging, labelling, batch traceability and segregation of NG/OK product.
*Support internal and external audits (IATF 16949, ISO 9001, customer audits).
*Maintain 5S standards in quality stations and across production areas.
*Escalate risks early through established escalation routes.

Quality Technician Applicants:*Strong understanding of machining & assembly processes.
*Competent in use of gauges, micrometres, verniers, height gauges, fixtures, and test benches.
*Basic to intermediate understanding of GD&T.
*Ability to read engineering drawings and control plans.
*Exposure to CMM process (program execution or part submission workflow).
*Knowledge of Core Tools (PPAP, APQP, MSA, SPC, FMEA).
*High attention to detail and accuracy.
*Ability to work independently on shift, making decisions without immediate management.
*Strong communication with operational teams.
*Calm and structured approach to defect escalation.
*Proactive mindset in identifying risks and issues.
*Previous experience in a manufacturing quality role.
*Competence in dimensional inspection and understanding quality standards.
*Ability to perform First-Off, in-process, and final inspections.
*Desired:
*NVQ Level 3 or above in Engineering / Manufacturing / Automotive (Desirable).
*Experience with CMM measurement or metrology equipment (Desirable).
*IATF 16949 awareness training (Desirable).
*Experience with machining or assembly processes (Desirable).
Working Monday to Friday 9.00 pm - 6.00 am. Salary is £33,000 to £35,000.