Materials Inspector
Experience fair hiring! We prioritise equality with our anonymous screening process. Your skills shine, not your personal info. Apply now and let your abilities speak for themselves!
We’re not just another bike brand - we're an iconic, British motorcycle brand with over 120 years of history behind us. Our new state-of-the-art facilities in Solihull, West Midlands are home to a tight-knit, but ever-expanding team that's passionate about delivering exquisite riding experiences to our customers.
Under new ownership and proud to be part of the TVS Motor family, we're entering a new era of global success. And we want you to be a part of it!
At Norton, we value respect, trust, and responsibility. We trust our employees to execute their roles exceptionally and professionally, and we value personal development, teaching, and learning. When you join our team, you'll have the opportunity to grow and learn alongside some of the most talented and dedicated people in the business.
So if you're passionate about motorcycles and looking to join a team that's shaping the future of this legendary brand, we'd love to hear from you!
The Role
As Materials Inspector, you will be establishing and performing conformity, verification, and analysis of materials, coatings, treatments, and special processes across the business. Operating within the Quality Laboratory, the Materials Inspector will play a key role in the creation and development of a new Materials Testing and Process Verification Laboratory, defining test methods, validating equipment, and building the technical capability required to ensure all materials and processes meet design intent, specifications, and regulatory standards.
Key Responsibilities
Perform material conformity inspections and verification activities across raw materials, coatings, treatments, and special processes
Conduct hands-on testing and analysis within the Quality Laboratory to ensure compliance with design intent, internal specifications, and applicable regulatory standards
Support the creation, development, and ongoing operation of a new Materials Testing and Process Verification Laboratory
Define, develop, and document material test methods, inspection procedures, and acceptance criteria
Validate laboratory equipment, test methods, and measurement systems to ensure accuracy, repeatability, and compliance
Provide technical support to Production, Engineering, and Supplier Quality teams through material investigation, root cause analysis, and corrective action activities
Support supplier material and process verification, including review of certification, test data, and compliance documentation
Investigate material-related non-conformances and support containment, rework, or process improvement activities
Maintain accurate records, reports, and traceability of all material testing and inspection activities
Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives related to material control, testing capability, and process verification
Essential Qualifications
NVQ or BTEC in an Engineering, Materials Science, or related technical discipline (or equivalent)
Essential Experience (Must Haves)
Experience in a materials inspection, testing, or quality laboratory role within an automotive OEM, Tier 1 supplier, or similar regulated manufacturing environment
Hands-on experience with materials testing, coatings inspection, or special process verification (e.g. heat treatment, surface treatments, paint, plating)
Experience supporting low-volume, high-complexity manufacturing environments with high technical content
Ability to work with engineering specifications, material standards, and regulatory requirements
Technical Skills & Competencies
Strong understanding of materials, coatings, and manufacturing processes
Experience defining and validating test methods and inspection procedures
Familiarity with laboratory equipment, measurement systems, and validation techniques
Ability to interpret material certifications, test reports, and compliance documentation
Structured, analytical approach to problem-solving and investigation
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Rewards of working for Norton:
We like to take care of our Nortoneers and we think we offer some pretty decent rewards. Here's what you'll get when you join the team:
Competitive salary package that recognises your skills and experience
33 days holiday (inc. Bank Hols) to relax and recharge
Generous pension scheme that sets you up for the future, with access to personalised advice.
Private Medical Insurance and a Cash Back Programme to keep you feeling your best
Life insurance (4x salary) because we've got your back no matter what
FREE fruit, got to have your five-a-day!
WeCare Employee Assistance Programme, which includes access to online GP services, dietary advice, mental health support, bereavement counselling, and a fitness programme
Experience the thrill of an entrepreneurial environment within a larger, well-funded company with ambitious long-term goals.
Elevate your career with our Ideas for Excellence scheme, where every brilliant idea is not just valued, but also rewarded!
A diverse and international team that brings together different perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences.
Join the fun with our twice-yearly employee events, payday socials, and loads of exciting activities in between!
Want to go green? You can enjoy free electric bicycle hire
Plus, no need to stress about finding a parking spot - we've got on-site free parking covered and FREE electric charge points
We know how important it is to take care of our team, and we're committed to continually improving our reward offering in line with the business growth plan.
Join us and see for yourself!
PLEASE NOTE, WE DO NOT ACCEPT AGENCY APPLICATIONS
- Department
- Quality
- Role
- Plant Quality
- Locations
- Head Office
- Employment type
- Full-time
About Norton Motorcycles
Join one of the most iconic brands in the motorcycle industry. We are in a pivotal moment of our history, and therefore the right candidates will be able to help us secure future success, drive value from innovation, and create a quality-driven, indomitable legacy.
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