Principal Metrology Engineer

Summary: The Principal Metrology Engineer will serve as a technical lead and expert in advanced surface‑characterization methods, responsible for developing, operating, and interpreting measurements from a suite of high‑precision analytical tools. This role supports materials development, process optimization, and fundamental surface‑science research across multiple programs.

Responsibilities:

• Operate, maintain, and develop measurement protocols for XPS, SEM, AFM, Auger spectroscopy, LEED, and RHEED and others.
• Design and execute detailed surface analysis experiments to characterize materials, coatings, interfaces, and thin films.
• Analyze complex data sets and apply advanced quantitative methods to extract meaningful physical and chemical insights.
• Interpret results with a deep understanding of surface science, surface chemistry, and materials science principles.
• Troubleshoot instrumentation issues, coordinate maintenance, and ensure high measurement quality and repeatability.
• Strong interpersonal skills with proven ability to lead and influence across engineering and collaborate with cross functional teams in R& D, product development, and manufacturing to support material investigations and root cause analysis.
• Document methods, results, and interpretations clearly for internal stakeholders and external partners when required.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of analytical workflows, data analysis pipelines, and experimental methodology.
• Define calibration standards, metrology capability roadmaps, and long-term measurement system improvement plans.
• Evaluate, select, and qualify new metrology equipment, technologies, and software systems.

Qualifications:

• PhD in a related field (such as Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, or a similar discipline), or MS degree with 5+ years of relevant experience, or BS degree with 8+ years of relevant experience.

Required Experience and Skills:

• Hands on proficiency with XPS, SEM, AFM, Auger spectroscopy, SEM, UPS, and LEED/RHEED.
• Demonstrated expertise in data analysis and advanced interpretation of surface analysis results.
• Knowledge of surface science, surface chemistry, or materials science.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively across multidisciplinary teams.
• Excellent problem solving, communication, and documentation skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in aerospace, defense, or other high precision, regulated industries.
• Background in automated inspection systems, robotic metrology, or digital thread/Model-Based Definition environments.
• Experience leading metrology capability development or technology road mapping.
• Lean/continuous improvement certification (e.g., Six Sigma Green Belt or higher).

Here Are Some of the Great Benefits We Offer:

• Most locations offer a 9/80 schedule, providing every other Friday off
• Competitive compensation & 401(k) program to plan for your future
• Robust medical, dental, vision, & disability coverage with qualified wellness discounts
• Basic Life Insurance and Additional Life & AD& D Insurances are available
• Flexible Vacation & PTO
• Paid Parental Leave
• Generous Employee Referral Program
• Voluntary Benefits Available: Longer Term Care, Legal, Identity Theft, Pet Insurance, and more
• Voluntary Tricare Supplement available for military retirees

Why Roanoke, Virginia?

• Lower cost of living
• Family-friendly area
• Career and economic growth
• Scenic beauty
• Outdoor enthusiast's dream

This job description does not list all the duties of the job. You may be asked by your supervisors or managers to perform other duties. The employer has the right to revise this job description at any time. The job description is not an employment contract. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position. Twenty-Six Defense is an equal opportunity employer as to all protected groups, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

*For Virginia-based positions only* In accordance with Virginia DOL requirements, the listed salary range reflects the anticipated base pay range for this role. Actual compensation will be determined based on factors including skills, experience, education, certifications, business needs, internal equity, and geographic location. Compensation may vary in different locations based on market conditions and cost-of-labor considerations.

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