SQD Senior Launch Engineer

Job TitleSQD Senior Launch EngineerRef #58538Date postedThursday, October 9, 2025CountryUnited KingdomLocationWokingBusiness areaSQDDepartmentSupplier Quality AssurancePosition level5 - Supervisory / Professional​ - (L-16)Working timeFull TimeContract typePermanentWorking pattern9am - 6pm Monday to FridayWhat to ExpectTake ownership of supplier quality readiness across the launch of McLaren's next generation of high-performance vehicles.Work at the heart of vehicle programmes, partnering with Engineering, Manufacturing, Purchasing and suppliers to ensure quality, timing and capacity targets are achieved.Lead quality activities during pre-production builds, driving issue resolution and supplier performance in a fast-paced launch environment.Influence key stakeholders and suppliers to ensure components reach the required level of maturity ahead of every vehicle build.What You'll DoLead supplier quality support throughout pre-production builds and vehicle launch activities.Drive structured problem-solving and containment activities for quality concerns, ensuring issues are resolved quickly and effectively.Manage supplier readiness, including PPAP approvals, concessions and launch risk assessments.Coordinate suppliers, resident engineers and third-party inspection teams to deliver robust containment and quality performance.Monitor product maturity through each build phase, escalating risks and driving recovery plans where required.Partner with Manufacturing, Purchasing and Programme teams to align supplier quality activities with programme objectives.Use launch data and build feedback to develop KPIs, identify trends and driveWhat You'll BringProven Supplier Quality experience within an Automotive OEM, Tier 1 supplier or high-performance manufacturing environment.Successful delivery of new product or vehicle launches from industrialisation through to production.Strong knowledge of automotive quality tools including APQP, PPAP, FMEA, MSA, SPC and structured problem-solving methodologies.A solid understanding of manufacturing processes, supply chains and supplier development.Experience assessing supplier readiness, managing risk and influencing cross-functional stakeholders.Degree qualified in Engineering or a related technical discipline, or equivalent industry experience.Working knowledge of SAP, CATIA and Microsoft Office.Person AttributesA proactive engineer who takes ownership and enjoys solving complex technical challenges.A strong communicator who can confidently influence suppliers and internal stakeholders.Organised, resilient and comfortable managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced programme environment.A collaborative team player who leads with professionalism, integrity and accountability.Passionate about quality, continuous improvement and delivering exceptional products.What We'll Do for YouWe offer a wide – ranging benefits package, which includes:Structured career development framework25 days’ holiday, plus bank holiday. Annual buy & sell up to five daysEnhanced company pension schemeDiscretionary annual bonus awardPrivate medical insurance and health cash planLife assurance benefitAbility to apply for a sabbatical of up to one year after only two years’ serviceBenefits you can adapt to your lifestyle, such as discounted shoppingGenerous parental leave policiesA range of wellbeing initiatives, such as employee assistance programme and free financial & mortgage adviceWho Are We?No restraints. No limitations. We don’t simply push boundaries. We completely rethink them. McLaren Automotive exists to create breath-taking performance road cars.It takes a community to do what we do. A diverse group of people with many areas of expertise, united by their passion to deliver visionary products and set new benchmarks. McLaren Automotive commits to equal opportunity for all. Diversity, Equality and Inclusion is at the heart of our impact, it drives our innovation and enables us to truly create something special. Join us on our journey.