Quality Lead

Role: Quality Lead

Location: Highlands, Scotland

Start Date: ASAP

Project: Transmission & Distribution (OHL)

Employment Type: Permanent or Contract options available (depending on location and experience) – Great Packages on offer!

Role Overview

Reporting to the HSEQ Manager, the Project Quality Lead is responsible for establishing, implementing, and maintaining robust quality management systems across transmission and distribution projects.

You will play a key role within the HSEQ leadership team, providing assurance to both internal stakeholders and the client that quality risks are effectively managed throughout the project lifecycle.

Key Responsibilities:

Quality Management & Assurance

* Develop, implement, and maintain the Project Quality Plan (PQP)

* Establish Inspection & Test Plans (ITPs), procedures, and workmanship standards

* Integrate quality requirements into project planning and delivery

* Act as the lead adviser on all quality-related matters

Compliance & Governance

* Ensure compliance with: Contractual requirements, Client specifications, Industry standards (BS, IEC, EN), Statutory regulations

* Lead and manage internal and external audits

* Monitor and report quality performance, trends, and KPIs

Non-Conformance & Corrective Action

* Lead the identification and resolution of non-conformances (NCRs)

* Drive root cause analysis and corrective/preventative actions

* Ensure defects are effectively managed and lessons learned captured

Construction & Operational Interface

* Work closely with project and site teams to embed quality in day-to-day activities

* Provide input into method statements, risk assessments, and temporary works

* Support inspections, hold points, and quality surveillance

Supply Chain & Subcontractor Management

* Review and approve subcontractor quality documentation

* Monitor supply chain performance and compliance whilst supporting supplier audits and technical assessments

Continuous Improvement & Culture

* Deliver briefings, toolbox talks, and training sessions

* Drive lessons learned and continuous improvement initiatives

Health, Safety & Environmental Alignment

* Ensure alignment between quality, safety, and environmental standards

* Support the prevention of defects and rework that may impact safety or performance

Team Leadership

* Line manage and coordinate the project quality team

* Oversee any contracted quality resources

Qualifications & Competencies:

Essential

* Degree (or equivalent experience) in Engineering, Construction, or related field

* Proven experience in a Quality Lead / Manager role within infrastructure, utilities, or T&D

* Strong knowledge of Transmission & Distribution construction (substations, OHL, cabling)

* Working knowledge of ISO 9001 / quality assurance principles and in-depth understanding of quality management systems (ISO 9001)

* Ability to interpret technical drawings, specifications, and standards

Desirable

* ISO 9001 Lead Auditor qualification

* Experience with UK DNO/TSO frameworks (e.g. National Grid, SSEN, UKPN)

* Knowledge of commissioning, asset handover, and adoption processes