Job Description

Derby | Metrology Engineer - Hybrid

We are looking for an experienced Metrology Engineer to join our manufacturing team at our Derby site.

Salary💷 £50,000 per annum

Monday – Thursday: 8.00am - 17.00pm

Friday - 8.00am to 1.00pm

Benefits

* Competitive salary

* Company pension scheme

* 25 days annual leave + 8 statutory holidays, Christmas shut down

* BUPA Health care

* Free onsite parking

* Death in Service benefit

* Long Service awards

Purpose of role and accountabilities:

The Metrology / CMM Engineer will lead the evaluation, optimisation, and standardisation of measurement methodologies across the Group. Initially focusing on CMM (Coordinate Measuring Machine) activities, the role will identify inefficiencies in current programs, measurement frequency, equipment utilisation, and processes. The successful candidate will then develop and deploy a Group‑wide CMM Strategy grounded in best practices, modern metrology standards, and manufacturing requirements.

This position plays a critical role in improving measurement accuracy, reducing over‑processing, increasing throughput, and establishing a consistent metrology framework across all sites.

Review current measurement methodologies, with emphasis on:

* CMM program structure and content

* Measurement frequency and justification

* Equipment capability, utilisation, and bottlenecks

* Software versions, compatibility, and programming methods

* Conduct site visits to assess local processes and competence.

* Perform gap analysis against industry best practices and OEM requirements.

Create a comprehensive Group CMM / Metrology Strategy, covering:

* Standardised programming practices

* Training and competence standards for programmers and operators

* Recommended inspection plans and measurement frequencies

* Software standardisation and upgrade roadmap

* CMM equipment investment plan (rationalisation, upgrades, replacements)

* Best practice sharing mechanisms and governance structure

* Reduce over processing through optimised CMM cycles, routines, and probing strategies.

* Reduce over processing through optimised CMM cycles, routines, and probing strategies.

* Introduce methods to minimise operator intervention and reduce variability.

* Identify opportunities to improve throughput (fixturing, offline programming, macros etc.).

* Drive consistent reporting structures, including FAIRs, in process measurement, capability studies and SPC.

* Provide technical leadership for all Group metrology activities.

* Develop and deliver Group wide training modules for CMM programmers and inspectors.

* Work closely with Quality, Manufacturing Engineering, Design, and Operations teams.

* Support customer audits and technical queries related to measurement.

* Contribute to new product introduction (NPI) to ensure robust measurement strategies.

* Establish Group standards, work instructions, and technical documentation.

* Maintain a Metrology Governance Pack including KPIs, capability metrics, and improvement plans.

* Ensure compliance with aerospace measurement standards (e.g., AS9100, OEM-specific requirements).

Core skills/attributes needed:

* Proven experience as a CMM Programmer/Engineer in the aerospace or precision engineering sector.

* Proficiency in CMM programming languages/software, primarily PC-DMIS

* Good understanding of GD&T, engineering drawings, tolerances, and complex geometry.

* Knowledge of probing systems, fixtures, and offline programming tools.

* Strong analytical skills, including measurement system analysis (MSA), capability studies, SPC.

* Experience implementing or contributing to metrology strategies at multi‑site organisations.

* Exposure to automated inspection systems, laser scanners, CT, or non‑contact metrology.

* Experience building standardised work and quality frameworks.

* Knowledge of lean manufacturing and continuous improvement.

* HNC/HND or Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing, Aerospace Engineering, or related field.

* Metrology/CMM programming certification is advantageous.

The employee must also strive to support the elements of the SQCDP framework of the wider Gardner business;

Safety: work in line with all accredited company safety standards to provide a safe working environment for all

Quality: support the quality accreditations across the business to ensure delivery of a ‘right first time’ performance

Cost: support the continuous improvements in cost reduction activities across the company to deliver increased profitability and value for money to our customers and stakeholders

Delivery: drive improvement in delivery performance to continually exceed customer expectations and targets

People: support organizational capability and influence cultural change by embracing diversity, inclusion, wellbeing and community

NOTE: Due to the nature of this role and the security requirements linked to projects with the UK Ministry of Defence, applicants must be eligible for UK Security Clearance