Principal Metrology Engineer

Elbit America•Roanoke, VA

About The Position

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.

Requirements

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.
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.

Nice To Haves

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).

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.