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Principal Metrology Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

KBR

Metrology Technician II

Torrance, CA

$30 - $37.45/hr

Program Summary The KBR Metrology team supports manufacturing, engineering & test, repair ... This role will report to the principal technician and/or lab manager. Roles and Responsibilities

KBR, Inc.

Metrology Technician II

Torrance, CA · On-site

$30 - $37.45/hr

Program Summary The KBR Metrology team supports manufacturing, engineering & test, repair ... This role will report to the principal technician and/or lab manager. Roles and Responsibilities

Onto

Principal Systems Engineer

Hillsboro, OR

The Principal Systems Engineer will define system-level requirements, ensure cross-functional ... Experience with semiconductor metrology, inspection, or lithography systems. * Knowledge of ...

Onto

Principal Systems Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

The Principal Systems Engineer will define system-level requirements, ensure cross-functional ... Experience with semiconductor metrology, inspection, or lithography systems. * Knowledge of ...

Onto

Principal Systems Engineer

Milpitas, CA

The Principal Systems Engineer will define system-level requirements, ensure cross-functional ... Experience with semiconductor metrology, inspection, or lithography systems. * Knowledge of ...

Tokyo Electron Limited

WI · On-site

As a \*\*Principal Process Integration Engineer\*\* within our FEOL/Middle-of-Line process ... metrology setup, and data analysis/evaluation.- Support internal and external stakeholders in ...

TEL

Principal FEOL/MOL integration Engineer

Albany, NY · On-site

Principal FEOL/MOL integration Engineer Location: Albany, TX As a Principal Process Integration ... O wn lot management including process splits, DOEs, metrology setup, and data analysis/evaluation.

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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 Test Engineer

Wilmington, MA • On-site

MKS Instruments, Inc.
Manufacturing • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about MKS Instruments, Inc.external

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

A Day in Your Life at MKS:
As a Principal Test Engineer at MKS Inc., you will partner with Engineering, Product Development, Advanced Development, Manufacturing, Quality, Operations, and Customers to execute particle testing, provide technical leadership for particle metrology activities, and ensure the reliable operation of the particle metrology laboratory, cleanroom environment, and engineering labs. You will serve as the subject matter expert for particle measurement technologies, laboratory methods, and contamination control while driving continuous improvement in testing capability, safety, and operational excellence. In this role, you will report to the Director of Advanced Development.
You Will Make an Impact By:
  • Leading particle testing, characterization, and analysis activities supporting product development, manufacturing, customer investigations, and reliability programs.
  • Managing day-to-day operations of the particle metrology laboratory, ensuring testing capabilities are available, accurate, and operating at peak performance.
  • Maintaining laboratory equipment, particle counters, metrology systems, cleanroom infrastructure, and supporting systems to maximize uptime and reliability.
  • Developing, validating, and continuously improving test methods, procedures, and laboratory standards to ensure accurate and repeatable results.
  • Serving as the technical authority for contamination control, particle generation studies, cleanliness verification, and failure investigations.
  • Supporting engineering labs, test stations, test set-up, and test plans.
  • Ensuring compliance with cleanroom protocols, laboratory safety requirements, environmental regulations, and company policies.
  • Leading equipment qualification, preventive maintenance, calibration programs, and laboratory expansion initiatives.
  • Collaborating with engineering, manufacturing, and quality teams to identify root causes, solve complex contamination challenges, and improve product performance.

• Travel Requirements: Up to 10% of travel is required.
Skills You Bring:
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
  • 8+ years of experience managing complex labs
  • Extensive experience operating and maintaining particle metrology, contamination control, or analytical laboratory equipment.
  • Demonstrated expertise in cleanroom operations, contamination control practices, and laboratory safety management.
  • Experience developing, validating, and documenting test methods and measurement procedures.
  • Strong troubleshooting and root cause analysis skills related to laboratory equipment, instrumentation, and contamination-related issues.
  • Proven ability to lead technical projects and influence cross-functional teams.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, including technical reporting and presentation of test results.

Preferred Skills: (Optional)
  • Experience supporting semiconductor capital equipment, vacuum systems, gas delivery systems, plasma products, or advanced manufacturing environments.
  • Knowledge of ISO cleanroom standards, contamination control methodologies, and particle measurement technologies.
  • Experience with statistical data analysis, Design of Experiments (DOE), and measurement system analysis.
  • Experience managing laboratory budgets, capital equipment planning, and vendor relationships.
  • Familiarity with automated data acquisition systems and laboratory information management systems (LIMS).
  • Experience mentoring engineers, technicians, and laboratory personnel.

Supervisory Scope: (Optional)
  • Reporting Relationships: May provide technical leadership and direction to engineers, technicians, contractors, and laboratory support personnel.
  • Financial Responsibilities: Responsible for laboratory equipment investments, maintenance expenditures, calibration programs, and operational budgets associated with the particle metrology laboratory.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions:
  • Ability to work within ISO-classified cleanroom environments while following gowning and contamination control procedures.
  • Ability to stand, walk, bend, and perform laboratory activities for extended periods.
  • Ability to occasionally lift and move equipment, instruments, and materials up to 50 pounds.
  • Frequent operation of laboratory instruments, particle detection equipment, and analytical systems.
  • Regular exposure to laboratory and manufacturing environments requiring adherence to safety protocols and use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
  • Responsibility for maintaining a safe working environment and ensuring compliance with laboratory, cleanroom, and environmental health and safety procedures.
  • Availability to respond to critical laboratory equipment failures or facility issues to minimize disruption to testing operations.

Compensation and Benefits:
Salary Pay Range: $ 109,750.00 - 182,900.00 USD per year. This range is a good faith estimate of the expected salary range for this position, based on a wide range of factors including qualifications, experience and training, operational and business needs and other considerations permitted by law.
Bonus: This position is eligible for a discretionary annual bonus, in an amount to be determined by MKS [or as applicable].
Benefits: MKS offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance coverage (medical, dental and vision), 401(k) with company match, life and disability insurance, 12 paid holidays, sick time, 15 paid vacation days, [6 weeks fully paid] parental leave, adoption assistance and tuition reimbursement [and for participation in any stock programs, signing bonus, etc.
Globally, our policy is to recruit individuals from wide and diverse backgrounds. However, certain positions require access to controlled goods and technologies subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) or Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Applicants for these positions may need to be "U.S. persons." "U.S. persons" are generally defined as U.S. citizens, noncitizen nationals, lawful permanent residents (or, green card holders), individuals granted asylum, and individuals admitted as refugees.
MKS Inc. and its affiliates and subsidiaries ("MKS") is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer: diverse candidates are encouraged to apply. We win as a team and are committed to recruiting and hiring qualified applicants regardless of race, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions), religion, age, ancestry, physical or mental disability or handicap, marital status, membership in the uniformed services, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, or any other category protected by applicable law. Hiring decisions are based on merit, qualifications and business needs. We conduct background checks and drug screens, in accordance with applicable law and company policies. MKS is generally only hiring candidates who reside in states where we are registered to do business.
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
MKS is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation during the application or interview process due to a disability, please contact us at: accommodationsatMKS@mksinst.com .
If applying for a specific job, please include the requisition number (ex: RXXXX), the title and location of the role

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