Metrologist

Work for Indiana

Begin a fulfilling career with the State of Indiana by joining one of the largest employers in the state, offering a range of opportunities across 60+ agencies. At the state, you'll find competitive compensation, a robust benefits package and a commitment to work-life balance. Most importantly, you'll have the chance to make a real and measurable impact on the lives of Hoosiers across Indiana.

About the Indiana Department of Health (IDOH):

The Indiana Department of Health’s mission is to promote, protect, and improve the health and safety of all Hoosiers so that they can reach their optimal health regardless of where they live, learn, work, or play.

Role Overview:

This role offers the rare opportunity to manage Indiana’s State Metrology Laboratory, working directly with NIST and participating in national proficiency testing programs. It involves hands‑on calibration work across an unusually wide range of measurement disciplines — from tiny mass standards under controlled atmospheric conditions to multi‑ton weights handled with specialized hydraulic equipment. Beyond routine calibrations, the position contributes to measurement research, procedure development, and statewide technical support for inspectors and industry technicians. The role also includes diverse work environments, ranging from laboratory and office settings to occasional outdoor conditions, and will require occasional travel to participate in NIST programs including training.

Salary:

The salary for this position traditionally starts at $53,222.00 but may be commensurate with education and work experience. Use our Compensation Calculator to view the total compensation package.

A Day in the Life:

The essential functions of this role are as follows:

• Perform precision calibrations of mass standards using sophisticated weighing designs on precision equipment.
• Certify the accuracy of volume measurements by using displacement and gravimetric methods.
• Calibrate all state and local department weighing and measuring devices every two years.
• Maintain the State Metrology Laboratory and its service programs associated with NIST standards as well as protect and maintain the State standards of mass, volume, length, and temperature.
• Provide technical assistance for state and local weights and measures officials and industry technicians.
• Prepare calibration reports, documents, and statistics for NIST and National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program (NVLAP) as required.
• Perform advanced mathematical calculations using higher mathematics such as algebra, geometry, calculus, and statistics to solve problems and calculate uncertainties.
• Prepare technical reports on all new measurement techniques, attends trainings, reviews literature, and consults with other state Metrologists and NIST Metrologists on measurement and calibration problems and issues.
• Develop measurement techniques and procedures meeting NIST measurement system requirements.

The job profile is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Other duties, responsibilities and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.

This position is exempt from overtime compensation for additional work hours which may be required to complete essential functions or other assigned work. Exempt employees may work more than 75 hours in a pay period without additional compensation and must report a minimum of 75 hours per pay period of work hours and/or paid leave taken to receive their base biweekly salary.

What You'll Need for Success:

Individuals in this role should minimally be able to articulate or demonstrate the following:

• Knowledge of mathematical calculations using algebra, geometry, calculus, and statistics.
• Ability to enter, transcribe, record, store, and maintain information in written and electronic form.
• Ability to utilize databases and Microsoft Excel to compile and report data.
• Ability to operate equipment necessary for movement of large weights.
• Considerable knowledge in inspection, calibration and analysis of standards, equipment, systems, and other techniques of measurement.
• Working knowledge of fundamentals of physical area of measurement including optics, mechanics, etc.
• Working knowledge of principles, procedures, and methods of operation of various precision measurement instruments.
• Knowledge of usage, care, handling, and storage of primary, reference and secondary standards to ensure proper maintenance, accuracy and measurement traceability to the National Institute of Standards and Technology and the Division of Weight and Measures.
• Effective communication skills.
• Able to perform essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation.

A Bachelor’s degree in the physical sciences, or a minimum of 4 years of relevant experience, plus NIST Metrologist certification and/or at least two (2) years of comparable experience. Candidates not certified at hire will receive NIST Metrologist training to prepare for successful certification. Individuals should have the ability to perform essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation.

Supervisory Responsibilities/Direct Reports:

This role may be utilized in a supervisory capacity based on agency needs.

Benefits of Employment with the State of Indiana:

The State of Indiana offers a comprehensive benefit package for full-time employees which includes:

• Three (3) medical plan options (including RX coverage) as well as vision and dental plans.
• Wellness Rewards Program: Complete wellness activities to earn gift card rewards.
• Health savings account, which includes bi-weekly state contribution.
• Deferred compensation 457(b) account (similar to 401(k) plan) with employer match.
• Two (2) fully-funded pension plan options.
• A robust, comprehensive program of leave policies covering a variety of employee needs, including but not limited to:
• 150 hours of paid New Parent Leave and up to eight weeks of paid Childbirth Recovery Leave for eligible mothers.
• Up to 15 hours of paid community service leave.
• Combined 180 hours of paid vacation, personal, and sick leave time off.
• 12 paid holidays, 14 on election years.
• Education Reimbursement Program.
• Group life insurance.
• Referral Bonus program.
• Employee assistance program that allows for covered behavioral health visits.
• Qualified employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
• Free Parking for most positions.
• Free LinkedIn Learning access.

Equal Employment Opportunity:

The State of Indiana is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to recruiting, selecting, developing, and promoting employees based on individual ability and job performance. Reasonable accommodations may be available to enable individuals with disabilities to complete the application and interview process as well as perform the essential functions of a role. If you require reasonable accommodations to complete this application, you can request assistance by contacting the Indiana State Personnel Department at jobs@spd.IN.gov.