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Freelance Defect Metrology Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

skywater

Defect Metrology Staff Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

SkyWater is hiring a Defect Metrology Staff Engineer for our Austin TX site! Will provide defect metrology recipe application and equipment engineering support across KLA, Applied Materials, and ...

Vance Airscoop

Metrology Engineer

Albany, NY · On-site

$110 - $120/hr

Position Summary, Metrology Engineer NY Creates is seeking a highly skilled Semiconductor Metrology ... Experience with stochastic defect analysis and mitigation strategies * Exposure to machine learning ...

NY CREATES

Metrology Engineer

Albany, NY · On-site

$110K - $120K/yr

Position Summary, Metrology Engineer NY Creates is seeking a highly skilled Semiconductor Metrology ... Experience with stochastic defect analysis and mitigation strategies * Exposure to machine learning ...

Elevait Solutions

Metrology Engineer

Harrodsburg, KY · On-site

$35 - $36.50/hr

Metrology Engineer Location: Harrodsburg, KY Client Overview This role sits within a global ... Prior experience in a test lab or glass defect inspection system development Elevait Solutions was ...

ASM

Senior Metrology Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

We are seeking an R&D Metrology Engineer to join our dynamic materials development labs. The ideal ... and defect inspection tools. * Solid understanding of semiconductor processing and device ...

ASM

Senior Metrology Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

We are seeking an R&D Metrology Engineer to join our dynamic materials development labs. The ideal ... and defect inspection tools. * Solid understanding of semiconductor processing and device ...

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Freelance Defect Metrology Engineer information

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How much do freelance defect metrology engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance defect metrology engineer in the United States is $51.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43.27 and $58.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a freelance defect metrology engineer do?

A Freelance Defect Metrology Engineer specializes in measuring and analyzing defects in materials or products, often in industries like semiconductors, manufacturing, or materials science. They use advanced equipment and software to detect, characterize, and report on imperfections that could affect product quality or performance. As freelancers, they are hired on a project or contract basis to provide expertise, troubleshoot manufacturing issues, or optimize quality control processes. Their work helps companies maintain high standards and minimize production errors.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance defect metrology engineer?

To excel as a Freelance Defect Metrology Engineer, you need expertise in semiconductor manufacturing processes, metrology techniques, and data analysis, typically backed by a degree in engineering, physics, or a related field. Familiarity with metrology tools such as SEM, AFM, and defect review software, along with experience using statistical process control (SPC) systems, is crucial. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you deliver precise analyses and collaborate with clients. These skills and qualifications are vital for ensuring accurate defect detection and contributing to improved yield and product quality in semiconductor fabrication.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance defect metrology engineers when working with multiple clients or projects?

Freelance Defect Metrology Engineers often juggle diverse client requirements, varying equipment, and different process standards across projects. This can present challenges in quickly adapting to new fabrication environments and ensuring accurate calibration of metrology tools. Additionally, managing communication and expectations with multiple stakeholders is crucial to delivering consistent, reliable defect analysis. Staying updated on the latest industry standards and maintaining a flexible problem-solving approach are key to overcoming these challenges.

What is the difference between Freelance Defect Metrology Engineer vs Freelance Quality Control Inspector?

AspectFreelance Defect Metrology EngineerFreelance Quality Control Inspector
CredentialsEngineering degree, metrology certificationsQuality assurance certifications, inspection training
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, manufacturing plants, field sitesFactories, production lines, warehouses
Industry UsageMetrology, manufacturing, aerospace, automotiveManufacturing, consumer goods, electronics
Job FocusMeasuring and analyzing defect characteristics using precision toolsInspecting products for defects and ensuring quality standards

While both roles involve quality assessment, Freelance Defect Metrology Engineers focus on precise measurement and analysis of defects using specialized tools, often requiring engineering expertise. Freelance Quality Control Inspectors primarily perform visual and manual inspections to identify defects, emphasizing adherence to quality standards. Understanding these differences helps clients choose the right professional for their specific needs.

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Freelance Defect Metrology Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Defect Metrology Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,799 per year, or $51.3 per hour.

Defect Metrology Staff Engineer

Austin, TX • On-site

skywater
See more jobs at skywaterexternal

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

SkyWater is hiring a Defect Metrology Staff Engineer for our Austin TX site! Will provide defect metrology recipe application and equipment engineering support across KLA, Applied Materials, and Camtek platforms. The System types include brightfield, darkfield, bare wafer, macro inspection, and SEM review.

Key Responsibilities:

Defect Metrology Engineers are responsible for:

  • Writing, optimizing, and managing defect inspections
  • Meeting goals for tool uptime, availability, and matching
  • Managing the budget for their toolset
  • Supplier engagement
  • Engage individually and as a team member to identify critical defects and report the information back to Fab Process / Support teams.
  • Responsible for tool maintenance, interfacing with vendors, problem solving and making recommendations for work to be done.

Required Qualifications:

  • A technology related BS degree plus 5 years related experience or MS degree plus 3 years' experience.
  • Demonstrated technical expertise in understanding defect metrology recipe setup and optimization, as well as possessing solid knowledge on equipment engineering.
  • Prior experience organizing and leading projects. Ability to manage and execute multiple projects simultaneously and shift priorities to meet business needs.
  • Proven autonomy identifying critical defects with ability to solve unfamiliar process issues.
  • Fluent in Data / Statistical analysis and Statistical Process Control
  • Experimental design for recipe development and optimization
  • Interpersonal, communication, and presentations
  • Innovative thinking
  • Risk management
  • Strong understanding of tool hardware / theory, equipment install, startup, and qualification
  • Understanding of fab process, technology, and flow

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Preferred experience working with KLA, Applied Materials, and Camtek inspection and review platforms. 
  • Knowledge of fault detection and process control

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