External Quality Auditor

We are SGS – the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company. We are recognized as the global benchmark for sustainability, quality and integrity. Our 100,000 employees operate a network of 2,600 offices and laboratories, working together to enable a better, safer and more interconnected world. Our brand promise – when you need to be sure – underscores our commitment to trust, integrity and reliability.

SGS’s C&P (Consumer and Products) services help businesses ensure product safety, quality, and compliance through testing, inspection, certification, and auditing—covering everything from manufacturing to distribution across various consumer goods sectors.

Job Title: External Quality Auditor - QAN/QAR / Hazardous Area

Job Type: Permanent, Full-Time

Location: Home based (with international travel)

Hours: 37.5 hours per week

Salary: Competitive + car allowance + benefits

Industry: Testing, Inspection & Certification

Overview of the Role

We are seeking an experienced External Quality Lead Auditor to deliver QAN/QAR and related audits across the UK 30% and internationally 70%. This role plays a key part in ensuring compliance with industry standards and supporting clients in maintaining high-quality, safe operations. You will contribute to strengthening SGS’s reputation for excellence through robust audit delivery and customer focus.

The ideal candidate for this role is someone who has experience in

Delivering third-party audits within engineering or hazardous area environments, with a strong understanding of quality management systems and compliance standards.

Responsibilities

Plan and conduct external audits for manufacturing auditing systems, in line with BS EN IEC 80079-34 and other relevant schemes (CCC, Korean, North American, etc.); Evaluate compliance against documented processes and identify nonconformities, risks and improvement opportunities; Produce clear, accurate audit reports and verify the effectiveness of corrective actions; Maintain audit schedules, records, and documentation in line with accreditation requirements; Champion a strong customer service and quality culture while ensuring compliance with SGS policies and integrity standards

Requirements

Proven experience as a Lead Auditor (minimum 2 years); Strong knowledge of ISO 9001:2015 and audit principles, techniques, and practices; Excellent communication, interpersonal, and report-writing skills; High attention to detail, integrity, and ability to manage multiple audits effectively; Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel extensively (UK and internationally)

Nice to have

Knowledge of EN ISO/IEC 80079-34 and hazardous area standards (IEC 60079 series); Experience within ATEX, UKEx or IECEx environments; Engineering background with relevant industry exposure; Higher qualification (e.g. MSc, MBA) or professional membership