Senior Metrologist - Machining

Vulcan Elements is manufacturing American rare-earth permanent magnets for a secure, resilient future. With a focus on national security and economic resiliency, we serve critical industries such as defense, aerospace, and automotive powering a high-technology future. Vulcan Elements is building a team of ambitious professionals committed to Mission Focus, Technical Excellence and Integrity.

About the Role

The Senior Metrologist will lead the development and implementation of inspection methods for machined magnet components, ensuring that developmental machining processes meet drawing, dimensional, and quality requirements. You will work closely with machinists, engineers, and commercial teams to translate product requirements into reliable measurement strategies.

During the first two to six months, you will establish repeatable measurement methods, address post-processing metrology challenges, and generate clear part inspection reports. The ideal candidate combines hands-on inspection expertise with a practical, problem-solving approach suited to a fast-paced R&D and manufacturing environment.

This role will initially be based primarily at the Johnston Community College Advanced Manufacturing Center, with occasional work at Vulcan Elements’ Durham Pilot/R&D facility. It will later transition to Vulcan’s manufacturing plant in Benson, North Carolina.

Responsibilities

• Select and develop inspection methods using optical systems, coordinate measuring machines (CMMs), precision gauges, profilometers, and other dimensional inspection equipment.
• Create measurement plans that accurately evaluate drawing requirements, tolerances, surface characteristics, and critical part features.
• Develop SOPs and work instructions, and maintain inspection records and part traceability.
• Partner with machinists and engineers to investigate defects, identify sources of variation, and verify corrective actions.
• Conduct measurement system analysis, including gauge repeatability and reproducibility studies, where appropriate.
• Maintain inspection equipment, calibration records, and traceability to applicable standards.
• Use statistical process control and inspection data to improve measurement consistency and manufacturing processes.
• Train machinists and technicians on inspection methods and the safe handling of parts and gauges.

Responsibilities and tasks outlined are not exhaustive and may change as determined by the needs of the business 

Qualifications

• At least five years of experience inspecting precision-machined parts in a manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, defense, or similarly regulated environment.
• Strong ability to interpret technical drawings and apply geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T).
• Proficiency with precision measuring tools and CMM or optical inspection systems.
• Experience developing inspection plans, measurement programs, and documented inspection methods.
• Working knowledge of calibration practices, measurement uncertainty, gauge R&R, and equipment traceability.
• Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills, with the ability to distinguish measurement-system variation from manufacturing-process variation.
• Ability to work independently, manage competing priorities, and maintain clear and accurate inspection records.
• Effective communication skills and the ability to collaborate across machining, engineering, quality, and commercial teams.

Must be a U.S. Person due to required access to U.S. export-controlled information or facilities.

Physical and Environmental Requirements

The position requires regular presence on the production floor and the ability to navigate all areas of the facility. Candidates must be able to climb stairs, stand and walk for extended periods, and work in environments that may be hot, humid, or noisy. The role involves exposure to cut hazards and other physical risks associated with equipment, tools, and production processes. Employees must be able to recognize and avoid sharp edges, moving parts, and other potential sources of injury.
This position also requires the use of personal protective equipment, including respirators, and adherence to all applicable safety policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements. Employees must complete required fit testing, wear appropriate PPE for the duration of assigned tasks, and respond safely to changing conditions within the production environment.