Principal Metrology Engineer

Principal Metrology Engineer

Twenty-Six Defense, headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas, is a leading provider of high-performance products, system solutions, and aftermarket support services focusing on the defense, homeland security, and commercial aviation markets. With facilities throughout the U.S., Twenty-Six Defense is dedicated to supporting those who contribute to the national security of the United States. Twenty-Six Defense is wholly owned by Elbit Systems Ltd., a global high-technology company engaged in a wide range of programs for innovative defense and commercial applications.

Fueled by more than 800 talented employees and a proud 65-year legacy of night vision production excellence, Twenty-Six Defense's Warfighter Systems business is rooted in the heart of Virginia's Roanoke Valley. Surrounded by the scenic beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains, you'll find a unique blend of southern hospitality, outdoor adventure, and the energy of a thriving city – all alongside a purpose you can be proud of coming to work each day.

As a world leader in low-light sensor technology, the Warfighter Systems team is engineering the future of image intensifiers and night vision goggle systems as we enter a new era of the networked battlespace. Trusted by the U.S. and nearly 100 allied countries, our technology provides support to those in harms' way during the most critical moments with one goal in mind: bring them home safely.

The work our employees perform each day plays a direct role in national security, and our shared purpose is what truly makes Warfighter Systems so extraordinary. Come join our collaborative team where each voice is valued in a setting where you can thrive, develop, and make a true impact!

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.