Principal Quality EngineerRole PurposeThe Principal Quality Engineer is responsible for overseeing the execution and continuous improvement of quality processes to ensure compliance with customer, regulatory, and internal standards, particularly AS9100, ITAR, and NADCAP. This role provides technical leadership in quality engineering, supports strategic quality initiatives, and mentors the wider quality team to uphold rigorous standards in aerospace and defence gear manufacturing.Key ResponsibilitiesLeadership and Oversight:Lead day-to-day quality engineering activities and provide mentorship to other Quality Engineers and Inspectors.Act as deputy to the Quality Manager where appropriate and support high-level decision-making on quality matters.Represent the Quality function in internal project teams, customer quality meetings, and regulatory audits.Compliance and Systems Management:Ensure ongoing compliance with AS9100, NADCAP, ISO 9001, ITAR, and customer-specific requirements.Drive maintenance and continual improvement of the Quality Management System (QMS), ensuring documentation, records, and procedures are fully aligned with certification standards.Support preparation and execution of external audits (certification, NADCAP, customer, and regulatory).Technical Quality Engineering:Lead or coordinate advanced quality planning activities including APQP, PPAP, control plans, FMEAs, and FAIRs (AS9102).Ensure robust inspection and test methods are in place for gear manufacturin