Principal Metrology & Gauging Engineer

Job description: Principal Process EngineerMetrology/Gauging/MeasurementGreater Akron, OH Area (Relocation Provided)A global manufacturing organization is seeking a Principal Process Engineer to lead the development, implementation, and deployment of advanced metrology and inspection technologies across its worldwide manufacturing operations. This position will play a critical role in improving product quality, reducing manufacturing costs, and supporting the development of next-generation production systems through innovative measurement and gauging solutions.This person will serve as a technical expert in dimensional and surface metrology, partnering with engineering, quality, and manufacturing teams to deploy industry-leading inspection technologies. This role will support global manufacturing facilities, lead capital equipment projects, and drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on measurement system performance, process capability, and operational excellence. This is a highly visible position with broad exposure across engineering and manufacturing organizations worldwide.Essential Responsibilities:Lead the development, implementation, and deployment of advanced metrology and gauging solutions across global manufacturing facilities.Provide technical leadership and support for coordinate measuring machines (CMMs), optical measurement systems, on-machine probing technologies, and automated inspection platforms.Serve as a subject matter expert in dimensional metrology, surface measurement, calibration methodologies, and measurement uncertainty analysis.Perform calibration, verification, and performance evaluations of metrology equipment to ensure accuracy, repeatability, and compliance with industry standards.Develop and execute technical strategies for metrology and gauging technologies that support manufacturing quality, productivity, and operational goals.Lead capital equipment projects including equipment specification, vendor selection, installation, commissioning, startup, and long-term performance optimization.Manage project budgets, appropriation requests, schedules, and resources to ensure successful project execution within established timelines and cost objectives.Conduct product and process benchmarking studies to support manufacturing decisions, process improvements, and cost reduction initiatives.Analyze measurement system performance using statistical methods and data-driven approaches to improve process capability and product quality.Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on inspection efficiency, throughput, quality performance, safety, and manufacturing process optimization.Support manufacturing facilities worldwide through troubleshooting, root cause analysis, corrective actions, and implementation of best practices.Collaborate with engineering, quality, operations, and plant leadership teams to standardize metrology practices across global operations.Utilize project management tools and methodologies to successfully manage multiple technical initiatives simultaneously.Provide training and technical guidance to engineering, quality, and manufacturing personnel on metrology systems and measurement technologies. Qualifications: Desired Qualifications:Bachelors Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related technical discipline required.Masters Degree preferred.7+ years of experience in metrology, manufacturing engineering, quality engineering, or advanced inspection technologies.Advanced hands-on experience with CMM operation, programming, calibration, and maintenance.Strong understanding of GD&T, engineering drawings, metrology standards, calibration procedures, and measurement uncertainty analysis.Experience with optical measurement systems, vision systems, laser scanning technologies, and on-machine gauging solutions.Knowledge of statistical analysis techniques, measurement system analysis (MSA), gauge R&R, process capability studies, and root cause analysis methodologies.Experience utilizing analytical and statistical software tools such as JMP or similar platforms.Demonstrated success leading capital equipment projects and cross-functional technical initiatives.Strong project management, organizational, and communication skills.Ability to work effectively across global teams and support multiple manufacturing facilities.Hands-on problem-solving mentality with the ability to balance strategic initiatives and plant-level support.Willingness to travel domestically and internationally up to 25%. Why is This a Great Opportunity: Corporate position with a multi-billion diversified multi-nationalNigel