Metrologist

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

• systems and manufacturing engineering
• mechatronics and electronics engineering
• physics
• mathematics
• instrumentation and control engineering

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

• equivalent entry requirements|https://www.gov.uk/what-different-qualification-levels-mean/list-of-qualification-levels
• student finance for fees and living costs|https://www.gov.uk/student-finance
• university courses and entry requirements|https://www.ucas.com/

You could take a college course, which could give you some of the skills and knowledge needed to become a metrology technician.

Relevant courses include:

• physics
• maths
• applied science
• T Level in Science

Entry requirements

Entry requirements for these courses vary.

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

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements|https://www.gov.uk/what-different-qualification-levels-mean/list-of-qualification-levels
• funding advice|https://www.gov.uk/further-education-courses/financial-help
• guide to T Levels|https://www.tlevels.gov.uk/
• search for courses|/find-a-course

You could apply to do a Metrology Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship, or Senior Metrology Technician Level 5 Higher Apprenticeship.

These apprenticeships typically take 3 years to complete and are a mix of on-the-job training and classroom study.

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

• equivalent entry requirements|https://www.gov.uk/what-different-qualification-levels-mean/list-of-qualification-levels
• guide to apprenticeships|https://www.gov.uk/apprenticeships-guide

Career Tips

Measurement science is an important part of every day life, as well as in scientific research. The Institute of Measurement and Control produces journals, videos and technical resources where you can learn more about the metrology profession .

Professional and Industry Bodies

You could join the Institute of Measurement and Control for professional development 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 .

As a metrologist, you could:

• use handheld and computerised measuring instruments
• check and calibrate measuring tools in line with recognised standards
• troubleshoot problems and fix them
• inspect the dimensions of finished products, tools and machine parts
• record test results for production planning and quality control
• keep up to date with developments in measurement technologies

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.