Principal Quality Engineer

Job Description

Leonardo UK (Luton) is seeking a Principal Quality Engineer to provide independent, technical Quality Engineering support to Integrated Project Teams (IPTs) delivering complex avionics and defence electronic hardware.

As Principal Quality Engineer for GCAP (Global Combat Air Programme) you are responsible for leading quality assurance of products, services and processes whilst ensuring compliance with contractual, regulatory, and industry standards across the full product/programme lifecycle.

Future Combat Air (FCA) is at the start of this journey. This role with be vital within requirements and design through manufacture, verification, release, and in-service support. The Quality function provides assurance, problem‑solving expertise, and objective challenge to support delivery at pace without compromising safety or compliance.

As a senior member of the Quality team, you will provide full product assurance throughout the IPT by:

• Providing independent quality assurance to avionics and electronic hardware projects within the FCA Line of Business.
• Working with Software Quality Assurance colleagues to assure the Software and Firmware elements work seamlessly with the hardware.
• Assuring compliance with contractual requirements, company processes, and applicable regulatory and industry standards.
• Creating and maintaining risk‑based Quality Plans aligned to programme and customer requirements.
• Supporting design, manufacturing, verification, and acceptance activities across the hardware lifecycle.
• Working with Supplier Quality Assurance colleagues to assure supplier and subcontractor capability and compliance with required quality standards
• Conducting project assessments and audits against approved plans and processes.
• Leading investigation of non‑conformances, including root cause analysis and corrective action implementation.
• Representing Quality at technical, lifecycle, and maturity reviews.
• Performing conformity reviews, supporting configuration audits, and supporting final product acceptance and release.

• Degree or equivalent qualification in Engineering, Physics, Electronics, or a related technical discipline OR Significant experience in Quality Engineering within an avionics, aerospace, defence, or other safety‑critical hardware environment.
• Demonstrated experience providing independent quality assurance across the full hardware lifecycle (requirements, design, manufacture, verification, and release).
• Working knowledge of aerospace and defence quality standards (e.g. AS9100, AS9145, Auditing).
• Strong technical understanding of hardware development and manufacturing processes.
• Experience applying quality principles and assurance techniques across complex product life cycles.
• Analytical approach to problem solving and continuous improvement.

• Formal quality qualification (e.g. Chartered Quality Professional, ISO 9001/AS9100 Lead Auditor, or equivalent).
• Knowledge of configuration management and product acceptance processes in regulated environments.
• Experience supporting certification or airworthiness activities.

This is not an exhaustive list, and we are keen to hear from you even if you might not have experience in all the above. The most important skill is a good attitude and willingness to learn.

This role will require National Security Vetting to SC level. It is a requirement that the successful applicant will undergo, achieve, and maintain SC Clearance. A range of Personnel Security Controls referred to as National Security Vetting (NSV) will apply, this will include meeting the eligibility requirements for The Security Check (SC) or Developed Vetting (DV). For more information and guidance please visit:

At Leonardo, our people are at the heart of everything we do. We offer a comprehensive, company‑funded benefits package that supports your wellbeing, career development, and work–life balance. Whether you're looking to grow professionally, care for your health, or plan for the future, we’re here to help you thrive.

• Time to Recharge: Enjoy generous leave with the opportunity to accrue…