AIT Quality Build Inspector – Propulsion

Expleo is a trusted partner for end-to-end, integrated engineering, quality services and management consulting for digital transformation. We help businesses harness unrelenting technological change to successfully deliver innovations that will help them gain a competitive advantage and improve the everyday lives of people around the globe.

We are seeking an AIT Quality Build Inspector (Propulsion) to join our client’s Assembly, Integration and Test (AIT) team in Stevenage, supporting spacecraft propulsion system build and integration. The role ensures the conformity of propulsion components and assemblies to customer and project requirements, with a strong emphasis on cleanliness, process compliance, and non-conformance management.

The successful candidate will conduct inspections across visual, mechanical, and electrical criteria, manage non-conformance reporting, and act as the quality focal point for the propulsion area. This role is integral to delivering spacecraft hardware on time, on cost, and right first time.

• Inspection Activities
  • Perform visual, mechanical, and electrical inspections on propulsion hardware and sub-assemblies (e.g. CPS systems, tanks, harnesses, brackets, thermistors, MLI, connectors).
  • Record all deviations; raise Occurrence Reports (ORs) or Non-Conformance Reports (NCRs) when issues cannot be restored by the production team.
  • Document inspection outcomes in PROUD (Personal Reduction Of Undetected Defects) templates.
  • Conduct receipt inspections of incoming propulsion hardware.
  • Complete final inspections and sign-off of work orders.
• Non-Conformance Management
  • Raise NCs (ORs/NCRs) using the NC-CAPA system.
  • Define containment actions and support corrective and preventive action processes.
  • Perform re-inspections post-rework and provide evidence for NC closure.
• Quality Representation
  • Act as the quality referent for the propulsion cleanroom area.
  • Ensure compliance with cleanliness, contamination control, and tool calibration requirements.
  • Conduct process audits, spot checks, and activity safeguarding to mitigate risks to flight hardware.
  • Provide guidance to operators and influence a proactive quality mindset across the propulsion team.
  • Escalate quality issues to the correct stakeholders and provide timely responses.
  • Quarantine defective or out-of-calibration equipment.
• Operational & Continuous Improvement Support
  • Update the Work To List (WTL) to reflect inspection status and schedule visibility.
  • Input into PROUD feedback loops and quarterly quality briefs.
  • Support lean and continuous improvement activities (5S, PPS, Kaizen).
  • Contribute to the robustness of the attestation process through coaching and surveillance.

• Apprenticeship, HNC/HND, or equivalent qualification in aerospace, mechanical/electrical engineering, or related discipline.
• Recognised training in quality fundamentals, mechanical/electrical inspection, or cleanroom operations.
• Completion of (or willingness to complete) training such as:
  • Spacecraft Production Induction
  • Cleanliness & Contamination (EN/ISO 9 refresher)
  • Human Factors for Space
  • DIM Awareness
  • 5S Practices
  • Working at Height
  • Hand Measuring Tools (M129a)

• Skilled in mechanical and electrical inspection techniques, including micrometers, depth gauges, verniers, multimeters, and magnifiers.
• Familiarity with propulsion system assembly processes (e.g. tanks, harness routing, welding checks, heater mat and MLI blanket installation).
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, models, and work instructions.
• Strong knowledge of non-conformance management systems (NC-CAPA or equivalent).
• Excellent documentation, reporting, and traceability skills.
• Strong communication and coaching skills to support and influence shop floor teams.
• Proactive mindset with authority to halt activities to safeguard hardware when required.

• Prior experience as a Quality Inspector or Manufacturing Technician in aerospace, defence, or precision engineering industries.
• Experience working in a cleanroom or contamination-controlled environment.
• Direct exposure to propulsion or satellite AIT processes (desirable).
• Background in non-conformance reporting, inspection sign-off, and process compliance in a regulated industry.
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing or continuous improvement practices.

• Collaborative working environment – we stand shoulder to shoulder with our clients and our peers through good times and challenges
• We empower all passionate technology loving professionals by allowing them to expand their skills and take part in inspiring projects
• ExpleoAcademy - enables you to acquire and develop the right skills by delivering a suite of accredited training courses
• Competitive company benefits
• Always working as one team, our people are not afraid to think big and challenge the status quo

“We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of their race, sex, disability, religion/belief, sexual orientation or age”.

We treat everyone fairly and equitably across the organisation, including providing any additional support and adjustments needed for everyone to thrive

• Entry level

• Other

• Quality Assurance

• Airlines and Aviation

Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at Expleo Group by 2x

Get notified about new Quality Inspector jobs in Stevenage, England, United Kingdom.