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Principal Metrology Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$150 - $200/hr

Principal Metrology Engineer to lead metrology initiatives, develop advanced characterization techniques, and drive improvement in quality and process control. You will work closely with cross ...

Quality Engineer 3 - Metrology Analyst Position Overview Develops, modifies, applies, and maintains ... Principal Accountabilities * Perform measurements and data post processing using portable metrology ...

Engineer Tech - QA - Night Shift - SC

Pendleton, SC · On-site

$60K - $78K/yr

Engineer Tech - QA - Night Shift - SC Arthrex, Inc. is a global medical device company and a leader ... Support or Lead (Sr. & Principal) Metrology with Measurement System Analysis (Gage R&R) studies.

$60 - $80/hr

Support or Lead (Sr. & Principal) Metrology with Measurement System Analysis (Gage R&R) studies ... Experience with engineering specification documents and Quality standards preferred. Additional ...

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Principal Metrology Engineer information

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$74K

$147.2K

$212.5K

How much do principal metrology engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal metrology engineer in the United States is $147,220.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $118,500.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a principal metrology engineer?

A Principal Metrology Engineer is a senior-level professional responsible for overseeing measurement science activities within an organization. They develop and implement systems for precise measurement, calibration, and quality control of instruments and processes. Their work ensures that products and processes meet strict industry standards and regulatory requirements. As leaders in their field, they often mentor junior engineers, lead complex projects, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to solve technical challenges related to measurement and accuracy.

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

To thrive as a Principal Metrology Engineer, you need a strong background in physics, engineering, or a related field, with expertise in measurement science and typically an advanced degree. Mastery of precision measurement instruments, calibration systems, statistical analysis software, and knowledge of relevant industry standards (such as ISO/IEC 17025) are essential. Exceptional problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication skills set top candidates apart. These skills ensure accurate data, compliance with regulations, and the ability to lead and innovate in high-stakes technical environments.

What are some common challenges faced by principal metrology engineers, and how can they be addressed?

Principal Metrology Engineers often encounter challenges such as maintaining calibration accuracy across a diverse range of instruments, integrating new measurement technologies, and ensuring compliance with evolving industry standards. Addressing these challenges typically involves implementing rigorous quality control processes, staying updated on technological advancements, and fostering strong collaboration with R&D, manufacturing, and quality assurance teams. Proactive communication and ongoing training are also crucial for troubleshooting measurement uncertainties and streamlining metrology workflows.

What is the difference between Principal Metrology Engineer vs Metrology Engineer?

AspectPrincipal Metrology EngineerMetrology Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Engineering, certifications in metrology or calibrationBachelor's degree in Engineering, technical certifications preferred
Work EnvironmentLead role in R&D, calibration labs, manufacturing facilitiesOperational role in calibration, testing, and measurement tasks
Industry UsageUsed in aerospace, automotive, manufacturing sectors for high-precision measurementCommonly employed in manufacturing and quality control environments

The main difference between a Principal Metrology Engineer and a Metrology Engineer lies in their level of responsibility and expertise. The Principal typically oversees calibration processes, develops measurement standards, and leads teams, while the Metrology Engineer performs calibration and measurement tasks under supervision. Both roles require similar technical credentials, but the Principal role involves more leadership and strategic planning.

What cities are hiring for Principal Metrology Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Principal Metrology Engineer job openings:

What states have the most Principal Metrology Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Principal Metrology Engineer jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Principal Metrology Engineer jobs?

For Principal Metrology Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Principal Metrology Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 92% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,220 per year, or $70.8 per hour.

Principal Metrology Engineer

Waynesboro, VA • On-site

Northrop Grumman
Space Research Administration • 10K+ employees

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 371 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

65th of 547 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: No CLEARANCE TYPE: Secret TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the Time Description At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way.

Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history. Our state-of-the-art manufacturing facility located in Waynesboro, VA will deliver advanced radars, communications antennas, and electronic warfare capabilities.

Slated to open in 2026, we are adding hundreds of high-quality jobs in the heart of Virginia. Together, we will work to deliver the world's most advanced technologies to protect our national security. We are looking for you to join our team as a Principal Metrology Engineer based out of our Blue Ridge Advanced Manufacturing Center.

What You'll Get to Do: Provide technical leadership for the Laboratory (with the Lead Metrologist) Support calibration systems and activities involving the traceable and systematic test and measurement characteristics such as length, mass, time, temperature, electric current, luminous intensity, and derived units of physical or chemical measure Identify the magnitude of error sources contributing to uncertainty of results to determine reliability of measurement process in quantitative terms Develop calibration methods and techniques based on principles of measurement science, technical analysis of measurement problems, and accuracy and precision requirements Develop and evaluate metrology calibration systems that measure characteristics of objects, substances, or phenomena, such as length, mass, time, temperature, electric current, luminous intensity, and derived units of physical or chemical measure Essential Functions: Standards & Methods Develop calibration standards, systems and procedures Inspect and evaluate new calibration standards for proper operation before releasing to calibration laboratory Recommend standards for use in calibration applications, including Test Equipment Justification Design and document measurement reference material for laboratory use Perform uncertainty evaluation and analysis for measurement standards and associated measurement Calibration Perform interval analysis Perform calibrations as required (We have a team of Calibration Technicians who perform routine calibrations.) Lead or participate in troubleshooting and root cause analysis of measurement issues or measurement system problems Equipment Evaluate and recommend M&TE for use in measurement applications Evaluate suppliers' products and work with them to resolve product issues and make improvements Train technicians and engineers in calibration methodologies and measurement principles Workflow Support the workflow as needed (exceptions, extensions, etc.) #MPR Basic Qualifications for the Principal Metrologist: Bachelor of Science degree or higher in a Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) discipline and a minimum of 5 years of relevant engineering experience OR a Master's degree and a minimum of 3 years of relevant engineering experience Experience in Mechanical and Electrical Metrology and Calibration with the ability to assist technicians in the performance of calibration Experience designing and documenting measurement reference material and uncertainty for laboratory use; problem solving for uncertainty Experience training technicians and engineers in calibration methodologies and measurement principles Experience in solving technical problems Candidate must be able to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret Clearance. US citizenship is required. Preferred Qualifications Experience with Dimensions, Temperature, Humidity, Pressure/Vacuum, and Electrical Metrology Experience troubleshooting, calibrating, and programming devices, machine centers, VTL's, VBM's and CMMs Experience in a programming language (PYTHON, C++, Java) What We Can Offer You: Be part of a culture that thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work

Northrop Grumman provides a comprehensive benefits package and a work environment which encourages your growth and supports the mutual success of our people and our company. Northrop Grumman benefits give you the flexibility and control to choose the benefits that make the most sense for you and your family. Your benefits will include the following: Health Plan, Savings Plan, Paid Time Off and Additional Benefits including Education Assistance, Training and Development, 9/80 Work Schedule (where available), and much more.

Primary Level Salary Range: $89,400.00 - $134,200.00 The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results

Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business. The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date.

However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates. Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO

U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.


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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939