What is a metrology technician and how to become one

Updated January 8, 2025

4 min read

Quoted expert

John Irwin EdD

A metrology technician is an individual who specializes in the calibration and testing of equipment used in manufacturing and production. They work with a variety of instruments to ensure that they are accurate and reliable. The technician is responsible for maintaining records of all measurements taken and for making adjustments or repairs as necessary. A metrology technician must have excellent technical skills and the ability to work independently or as part of a team.

What general advice would you give to a metrology technician?

John Irwin EdD

Chair, Manufacturing and Mechanical Engineering Technology, Professor, Mechanical Engineering Technology, Michigan Technological University

Engineering technology graduates are masters of technology, gaining a broad and deep understanding of the processes, systems, tools, and techniques necessary to construct, modify, operate, and maintain an engineering design. They act as technological integrators, bridging the gap between the skilled trades and engineering fundamentals. This is a great career path for those who enjoy engineering concepts but would rather spend time working with their hands solving specific technical issues than tackling broader, more complex design challenges.

ScoreMetrology TechnicianUS Average

Salary

4.7

Avg. Salary $60,212

Avg. Salary $59,228

Diversity

2.5

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 0.15%

Asian 8.05%

Black or African American 6.26%

Hispanic or Latino 10.43%

Unknown 4.32%

White 70.79%

Gender

female 13.01%

male 86.99%

Age - 52

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%

Asian 7.00%

Black or African American 14.00%

Hispanic or Latino 19.00%

White 57.00%

Gender

female 47.00%

male 53.00%

Age - 52

Stress level

5.5

Stress level is manageable

7.1 - high

Complexity level

7.0

Complexity level is challenging

7 - challenging

Work life balance

6.2

Work life balance is fair

6.4 - fair

What are the pros and cons of being a metrology technician?

Pros

Interesting and challenging work
Opportunities for career advancement
Good pay and benefits
Exposure to different industries and technologies
Job security and stability

Cons

Requires attention to detail and accuracy, which can be mentally exhausting
-Work is often in noisy or hazardous environments
requires working outside of regular business hours or on weekends/holidays
stressful when deadlines are tight or equipment malfunctions occur
Must keep up with changing technology and regulations

Key steps to become a metrology technician

Explore metrology technician education requirements

Most common metrology technician degrees

Associate

47.9 %

Bachelor's

31.8 %

Diploma

6.2 %

Start to develop specific metrology technician skills

Skills	Percentages
Calibration Procedures	7.52%
Hand Tools	7.35%
Calipers	7.17%
Micrometers	6.60%
ISO	6.54%

Complete relevant metrology technician training and internships

Accountants spend an average of 1-3 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New metrology technicians learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as a metrology technician based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real metrology technician resumes.

Research metrology technician duties and responsibilities

Calibrate and repair mechanical measuring equipment ranging from hand micrometers to CMM's.
Evaluate heat treatment, case depth, core hardness, porosity content, surface hardness and microstructure.
Design, build, install and maintain electronic control systems, including PLC's and microprocessors for in-plant process machinery.
Pass FDA PAI-inspection with no findings.

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