Product Inspection Manager
Location: Gillingham, Kent
Salary: Up to £64,000 + excellent benefits
Sector: Engineering / Automotive / Advanced Manufacturing
An exciting opportunity has opened for a Product Inspection Manager to lead a high-performing team at a cutting-edge engineering and manufacturing site. The role offers a unique chance to support the development of next-generation combustion engine technologies with a focus on carbon reduction and sustainability.
You will manage the inspection function, supporting key engineering activities such as product validation and new product development. This role is well-suited to a technical leader with experience in dimensional metrology, lab management, and a background in automotive or precision engineering environments.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead and develop a team of inspection engineers and technicians, ensuring skill progression and high performance.
- Manage workload and resource planning across multiple simultaneous engineering projects.
- Drive continuous improvement and ensure conformance with EH&S and quality systems.
- Oversee engineering sample inspections and provide timely, accurate datasets and reporting.
- Champion 5S and workplace organisation within the lab environment.
- Lead training and management of specialist metrology and inspection equipment.
- Represent the team at customer and supplier engagements, and within internal reviews.
- Maintain calibration schedules and ensure equipment reliability.
Required Skills & Experience:
- Prior experience managing a technical team or laboratory environment.
- Background in automotive or advanced manufacturing, with hands-on understanding of inspection best practices.
- Deep knowledge of dimensional metrology, GD&T, surface finish measurement, and complex engineering drawings.
- Experience with 3D metrology tools, optical inspection, visual imaging, and measurement programming.
- Familiarity with diesel common rail injection systems or similar high-precision engineering products is advantageous.
- Strong stakeholder communication and the ability to work cross-functionally.
- Programming or automation experience using MATLAB, Python, or VBA is a plus.
- A problem-solving, self-starting attitude with the ability to manage risk and resolve conflicts effectively.
What’s on Offer:
- Base salary up to £64,000
- Hybrid working policy (up to 2 days WFH after probation)
- £6,000 relocation package available
- 25 days holiday + bank holidays
- Company pension scheme, dental plan, employee assistance programme
- Subsidised on-site restaurant, gym access and local discounts
- Free on-site parking
This is an excellent opportunity to join a progressive, innovation-led business with a strong commitment to engineering excellence and sustainability.
If you are an experienced inspection manager or metrology leader looking to take the next step, we’d love to hear from you.
