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Metrologist

Alternative titles for this job include Metrology technician, metrology engineer

Metrologists use very precise measurements in science and industry to make sure that processes and products meet high standards.

Average salary (a year)

£20,000 Starter

to

£35,000 Experienced

Typical hours (a week)

37 to 40 a week

You could work

between 8am and 6pm

How to become

Explore the different ways to get into this role.

How to become a metrologist

You can get into this job through:

  • a university course
  • a college course
  • an apprenticeship
  • specialist training courses

University

You can do a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in:

  • manufacturing engineering
  • mechanical engineering
  • physics
  • mathematics

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
  • 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including maths and a science for a degree

More Information

College

You could do a T Level in Science which will give you some of the skills and knowledge needed to become a metrologist.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T Level

More Information

Apprenticeship

You could do an intermediate metrology technician or a senior metrology technician higher apprenticeship.

These apprenticeships typically take 36 months to complete.

Entry requirements

To get onto an apprenticeship, you'll find it useful to have:

  • 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science
  • 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship

More Information

Other Routes

It's possible to study a short course in measurement and calibration methods, if you're already working in engineering, manufacturing or quality control.

You could also do a part-time foundation degree in metrology if you have the support of your employer.

More Information

Career tips

Measurement science is an important part of every day life. Visit the BIPM, the international organisation that governs weights and measures, to find out more.

Professional and industry bodies

You could join the Institute of Measurement and Control for training opportunities and to make industry contacts.

Further information

You can find out more about metrology and how it's used from the Institute of Measurement and Control and the National Physical Laboratory.

What it takes

Find out what skills you’ll use in this role.

What it takes

Skills and knowledge

You'll need:

  • knowledge of manufacturing production and processes
  • to be thorough and pay attention to detail
  • the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
  • knowledge of maths
  • the ability to analyse quality or performance
  • patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
  • excellent verbal communication skills
  • the ability to work well with others
  • to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently

What you’ll do

Discover the day to day tasks you’ll do in this role.

What you'll do

Day-to-day tasks

You may:

  • use handheld and computerised measuring equipment
  • check the dimensions of finished products, tools and machine parts
  • compare product standards to technical drawings
  • work closely with technicians to fix production problems
  • calibrate measuring tools in line with recognised standards
  • record test results for production planning and quality control
  • keep up to date with measurement methods, technology and guidelines

Working environment

You could work at a manufacturing plant, in a laboratory or visit sites.

Your working environment may be noisy.

You may need to wear safety clothing and use safety equipment.

Career path and progression

Look at progression in this role and similar opportunities.

Career path and progression

You can use your skills to work in many different industries, from environment, energy and aerospace to transport, construction and healthcare.

With experience, you can move into a team management role, specialise in a particular area of measurement, or work in science and research.

Current opportunities

Find apprenticeships, courses and jobs available near you.

Current opportunities

Apprenticeships In England

Metrology Technician Apprenticeship

  • Wage: £16,000.00 Annually
  • Location: Aldermaston, Reading, Berkshire

V01928 - Technician Apprenticeship - Dimensional Control

  • Wage: Competitive salary Annually
  • Location: 1st Floor, Main Shipyard Offices, Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria
Find apprenticeships near you

Courses In England

HNC IN MANUFACTURING ENGINEERING

  • Provider: HARTLEPOOL COLLEGE OF FURTHER EDUCATION
  • Start date: 16 September 2024
  • Location: HARTLEPOOL

Manufacturing Engineering Edexcel BTEC Level 3 Diploma

  • Provider: CITY OF WOLVERHAMPTON COLLEGE
  • Start date: 09 February 2024
  • Location: Wolverhampton
Find courses near you

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