Metrology Jobs Tennessee: High-Demand Careers in Precision Measurement

Tennessee offers many job options for people interested in metrology. Metrology is the science of measurement and plays a key role in many industries.

Companies in Tennessee need workers who can use tools to take exact measurements.

A precision measuring instrument in a Tennessee metrology lab

There are over 25 metrology jobs in Tennessee with salaries ranging from $21 to $22 per hour. These jobs include roles like calibration technician and quality technician.

Some jobs require travel to customer sites to check and fix measuring tools.

Jobs in metrology can be found in cities across Tennessee. Nashville has openings for mobile calibration technicians who visit different work sites.

Other areas also have jobs for people skilled in taking precise measurements and working with special tools.

Overview of Metrology in Tennessee

A technician calibrates precision instruments in a Tennessee metrology lab

Tennessee has a growing metrology industry with job opportunities across the state. Metrology focuses on precise measurements and calibration of instruments.

Many companies in Tennessee need metrology technicians and engineers. These professionals work in manufacturing, healthcare, aerospace, and other industries.

Metrology jobs in Tennessee include roles like calibration technician and quality technician. Some positions involve travel to customer sites to perform calibrations.

Key skills for metrology jobs include:

  • Attention to detail
  • Math and analytical abilities
  • Knowledge of measurement tools and techniques
  • Understanding of quality standards

Salaries for metrology jobs in Tennessee vary. Calibration technician roles may pay around $21-22 per hour. Higher-level positions often offer competitive salaries.

Cities like Nashville, Oak Ridge, and Knoxville have metrology job openings. The Oak Ridge National Laboratory sometimes hires for specialized metrology engineering roles.

Metrology professionals in Tennessee work with advanced measurement equipment. They ensure accuracy in fields like manufacturing, research, and product development.

Education and Training for Metrologists

A metrology laboratory with precision measuring instruments and technicians in Tennessee

Becoming a metrologist requires specific education and ongoing learning. The field demands a mix of technical knowledge and practical skills.

Degree Programs and Certifications

Most metrologist jobs ask for a bachelor's degree in a related field. Common majors include physics, engineering, or math. Some schools offer special metrology programs.

Certifications can boost a metrologist's career. The American Society for Quality (ASQ) provides a Certified Calibration Technician (CCT) credential. This shows expertise in measurement and calibration.

On-the-job training is key. New hires often start as technicians and learn from senior staff. They gain hands-on experience with tools and methods.

Continuing Education and Workshops

Metrology changes fast. Pros must keep learning to stay current.

Many attend workshops and seminars to learn new techniques.

Online courses offer flexible learning options. The University of Tennessee has a metrology training program. It covers key topics in about two hours.

Trade shows and conferences are great for networking. They showcase new tech and methods. Attending these events helps metrologists grow their skills and contacts.

Some companies have in-house training. This keeps staff up-to-date on company-specific tools and processes.

Career Opportunities in Metrology

Metrology offers diverse job options in Tennessee. These roles span laboratory work, quality control, and industrial settings. Each area provides unique challenges and rewards for those interested in precision measurement.

Laboratory Positions

Calibration technicians play a key role in metrology labs. They maintain and adjust measuring tools to ensure accuracy. This job requires attention to detail and technical skills.

Some labs need specialists for specific equipment. For example, electronic calibration experts focus on digital devices. Others may work with mechanical or optical instruments.

Lab managers oversee daily operations. They plan workloads, manage staff, and ensure quality standards are met. Strong leadership and organizational abilities are vital for this role.

Quality Assurance Roles

Quality assurance teams rely heavily on metrology skills. Quality technicians use precise measurements to check product specifications. They help maintain high standards in manufacturing.

Quality engineers design and improve measurement systems. They work to reduce errors and increase efficiency in production processes. This role often requires advanced knowledge of statistics and quality control methods.

Metrology consultants advise companies on measurement issues. They may help set up new quality systems or solve complex problems. Strong communication skills are essential for this position.

Industrial Metrology Careers

Many Tennessee companies need metrology experts in their factories. Industrial metrologists ensure machines and tools work correctly. They often use advanced 3D scanning and computer-aided measuring systems.

Aerospace and automotive industries have specialized metrology jobs. These roles focus on precision parts for planes or cars. Workers must understand complex blueprints and tight tolerances.

Field service technicians travel to client sites. They calibrate and repair measuring equipment on location. This job suits those who enjoy variety and problem-solving in different settings.

Key Employers and Industry Sectors

Tennessee offers diverse metrology job opportunities across several major industries. These sectors rely heavily on precise measurements and quality control to maintain their competitive edge.

Automotive Industry

The automotive sector is a major employer for metrology professionals in Tennessee. Nissan North America has a large presence in Smyrna, creating many metrology jobs. Their plant requires skilled technicians to ensure product quality.

General Motors also operates a facility in Spring Hill. This plant needs metrology experts to maintain strict manufacturing standards.

Auto parts suppliers like Denso and Magna International have operations in the state. These companies hire metrology specialists to check component accuracy.

Metrology roles in this industry often involve using coordinate measuring machines (CMMs) and laser scanners. Professionals may inspect engine parts, body panels, or safety components.

Aerospace Sector

Tennessee's aerospace industry provides exciting metrology career options. Boeing has a significant presence in the state, with facilities in Maryville and Oak Ridge.

Alcoa, a major aluminum producer, supplies parts to aerospace companies. Their Tennessee operations need metrology experts to verify product specifications.

Smaller aerospace suppliers also create metrology jobs. These firms often require professionals skilled in non-destructive testing methods.

Common tasks in this sector include inspecting turbine blades, checking fuselage components, and verifying hydraulic systems. Advanced 3D scanning and X-ray technology are frequently used.

Healthcare and Pharmaceutical

The healthcare and pharmaceutical industries in Tennessee rely on precise measurements. Eastman Chemical Company in Kingsport is a major employer of metrology professionals.

Medical device manufacturers like Smith & Nephew in Memphis need metrology experts. These companies require strict quality control for implants and surgical tools.

Pharmaceutical firms such as Pfizer also operate in the state. They hire metrology specialists to ensure accurate drug formulations and packaging.

Typical metrology tasks in this sector include calibrating lab equipment, verifying pill dimensions, and inspecting medical implants. Clean room experience is often valuable.

Government and Defense

Government agencies and defense contractors offer stable metrology careers in Tennessee. The Y-12 National Security Complex in Oak Ridge is a significant employer.

The Arnold Engineering Development Complex, an Air Force test facility, needs metrology experts. They use advanced measurement techniques for aerospace testing.

The Oak Ridge National Laboratory also hires metrology professionals. These roles often involve cutting-edge research and development work.

Calibration services for government contracts create additional job opportunities. Metrology experts in this sector may work with highly specialized equipment and adhere to strict security protocols.

Certifications and Professional Development

A technician calibrates precision instruments in a Tennessee metrology lab

Metrology professionals in Tennessee can enhance their skills and career prospects through certifications and partnerships. These opportunities provide specialized knowledge and industry recognition.

American Society for Quality (ASQ) Certifications

ASQ offers several metrology-related certifications that are valuable for Tennessee professionals. The Certified Calibration Technician (CCT) credential demonstrates expertise in calibration and measurement.

To earn this certification, candidates must have:

  • 5 years of work experience in calibration
  • Pass a comprehensive exam

The Certified Quality Technician (CQT) is another relevant option. It covers:

  • Quality concepts
  • Measurement tools
  • Statistical techniques

These certifications can lead to better job opportunities and higher salaries in Tennessee's metrology field.

National Institute for Standards and Technology (NIST) Partnerships

NIST collaborates with Tennessee organizations to advance metrology practices. The University of Tennessee partners with NIST to develop new metrology training programs.

Key benefits of NIST partnerships include:

  • Access to cutting-edge research
  • Networking with industry experts
  • Participation in workshops and seminars

Tennessee companies can also join NIST's Manufacturing Extension Partnership. This program helps small and medium-sized manufacturers improve their metrology processes and stay competitive.

Networking and Professional Associations

A group of professionals gather at a networking event in Tennessee, discussing metrology jobs and exchanging information about professional associations

Building connections in the metrology field can boost your career in Tennessee. Local groups and online forums offer chances to learn and grow.

Local Chapters and Events

The Tennessee Society of Professional Engineers hosts events for engineers, including those in metrology. These meetings let you meet others in the field and learn about job openings.

Nashville has a metrology group that meets monthly. They talk about new tools and methods. Members often share job leads with each other.

Knoxville's technology council runs a yearly event for measurement pros. It's a great place to meet company leaders and learn about trends.

Online Forums and Resources

LinkedIn has a group for metrology jobs in Tennessee. Members post about open positions and share advice. It's a good spot to connect with others in the state.

The Coordinate Metrology Society has an active online forum. You can ask questions and get tips from experts around the world.

Many metrology firms have social media pages. Follow them to see job posts and industry news. Some offer virtual tours or Q&A sessions.

Reddit has a metrology subreddit where pros share ideas. It's a casual way to keep up with the field and make contacts.

A bustling metrology lab in Tennessee, filled with advanced equipment and busy technicians, showcasing the future of precision measurement

Metrology jobs in Tennessee are changing with new technology. More companies need people who can use advanced measuring tools.

Automation is becoming more common in metrology work. This means fewer manual tasks and more oversight of machines.

Data analysis skills are growing in importance. Metrology workers need to understand complex data from measurements.

There's a rising demand for mobile metrology technicians. These workers travel to different job sites to take measurements.

Key skills for future metrology jobs:

  • Computer programming
  • Data analysis
  • Machine operation
  • Problem-solving

Calibration technicians are in high demand across Tennessee. This role involves checking and adjusting measuring equipment.

The automotive and aerospace industries in Tennessee need more metrology experts. These sectors rely on precise measurements for quality control.

As technology advances, ongoing training becomes crucial. Metrology workers must keep learning to stay current with new tools and methods.

Compensation and Growth Projections

A metrology lab with advanced equipment and charts showing compensation and growth projections for Tennessee jobs

Metrology jobs in Tennessee offer competitive salaries.

Calibration Technicians in Nashville can earn between $21.02 and $22.16 per hour. This translates to an annual salary range of approximately $43,700 to $46,100 for full-time positions.

The job market for metrology professionals in Tennessee looks promising.

LinkedIn currently lists 155 metrology job openings in the state. This indicates a steady demand for skilled workers in this field.

Growth projections for metrology jobs are tied to broader industry trends. Tennessee's manufacturing and technology sectors continue to expand, driving the need for precision measurement experts.

Key industries hiring metrology professionals in Tennessee include:

  • Aerospace
  • Automotive manufacturing
  • Medical device production
  • Electronics

As these industries grow, so does the demand for metrology specialists. Companies value the expertise these professionals bring to quality control and product development processes.

Career advancement opportunities exist for those who stay current with new technologies and measurement techniques.

Pursuing additional certifications or specializations can lead to higher-paying roles and increased job security in this field.