Role: FAI Specialist (First Article Inspection)
Location: Cheltenham
Duration: 12 months
Rate: Up to 42 per hour (Umbrella only)
Inside IR35
Job Description Summary
As an NPI TE Hardware Engineer, you will be responsible for leading, specifying, designing & developing, Test Equipment solutions for power distribution and control programmes. You will work as part of an integrated product team to develop and implement TE Hardware for Qualification & deliver test solutions for the latest power distribution controls products.
You will take an innovative approach to problem-solving, demonstrate good people leadership skills, independence, sound technical judgement and be able identify and breakdown complex problems and formulate solutions.
Job Description
We are seeking a detail-oriented and experienced FAI Specialist to join our PCB manufacturing team. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in ensuring the quality and compliance of our products through the execution of First Article Inspections (FAI). This position requires a strong understanding of PCB manufacturing processes, inspection methodologies, and quality assurance standards. Key Responsibilities: - Conduct First Article Inspections (FAI) on newly manufactured PCBs to ensure compliance with design specifications and industry standards.
- As part of the FAI, ensures that the automated programmes, manufacturing documentation, and associated tooling will consistently produce product that conforms to design documentation.
- Develop and maintain FAI documentation, including problem reports, inspection plans, and non-conformance reports (NCRs).
- Collaborate with engineering and production teams to clarify specifications and resolve any discrepancies identified during fist article inspections.
- Utilize various inspection tools and equipment (e.g., calipers, microscopes, and automated optical inspection systems) to perform thorough evaluations of PCBs.
- Analyze inspection results and provide feedback to the manufacturing team to drive continuous improvement in production processes.
- Train and mentor production staff on FAI procedures and best practices in quality assurance.
- Assist in the development and implementation of quality control plans and inspection criteria for new products.
- Monitor compliance with relevant industry standards (e.g., IPC, ISO) and internal quality management systems.
- Participate in root cause analysis (APPS) and corrective action planning for any quality issues identified during the FAI process.
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of industry trends, regulations, and best practices related to PCB manufacturing and quality assurance.
Required Qualifications
- Experience in Electrical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Quality Assurance, or a related field environments. - Has experience in PCB manufacturing or quality assurance.
- Has knowledge of PCB design and manufacturing processes, as well as industry standards (e.g., IPC-A-600, IPC-A-610).
- Proficient in the use of inspection and measurement tools and techniques. - Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with a keen eye for detail. - Strong communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to collaborate effectively across teams. - Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment. - Certification in quality control (e.g., Six Sigma, ASQ) is a plus.