Working as a Field Calibration Engineer at Vaisala: “Being on the front lines of innovation in critical environments.”

Our blog team recently sat down with Russell Meisner, a Team Leader of field calibration experts at Vaisala. With over 20 years of experience as a Field Service and Calibration Engineer, Russell, based on the outskirts of Boston, shares insights into what makes this role unique and the incredible projects that engineers get to work on.

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Thanks for finding time to talk to us, Russell! Let’s start by explaining what kind of projects Field Calibration Engineers at Vaisala work on.
Russell: No problem at all, this is a pleasure! Field Calibration Engineers work on fascinating projects, primarily focusing on calibration services for critical environments, mainly supporting Life Science customers. This role is unique because these industries often require on-site calibration of devices. If products are manufactured or stored outside the specified environments or if the monitoring data is unreliable, it can pose risks to the public, lead to potential product recalls, or result incorrect research test results. My team ensures that devices in pharmaceutical manufacturing, hospitals, and research facilities are accurately calibrated to comply with regulatory standards.

What skills are essential for this work?
Russell: The essential skills include strong customer service abilities, technical understanding, and the capacity to work independently. Engineers must be self-starters, capable of managing their workflow and troubleshooting issues on-site. While a formal education in a technical field is beneficial, Vaisala provides comprehensive training, making it accessible for those with a calibration background or technical aptitude. The ability to adapt and solve problems on the fly adds to the excitement of the role, which I personally enjoy a lot!

What makes the role of a Field Calibration Engineer at Vaisala unique?
Russell: The role offers a thrilling blend of technical challenges and autonomy. I see our engineers travel extensively, visiting various customer sites and experiencing different environments daily. They see behind the scenes of critical industries like pharmaceuticals, hospitals, and research facilities,  witnessing firsthand how essential products and medicines are developed and maintained. This exposure to diverse environments and innovative technology makes the job both exciting and hugely rewarding.

Can you share some exciting experiences from the field?
Russell: One memorable project involved working at a facility that manufactures artificial heart valves, showcasing the life-saving impact of our work. Another exciting experience was working in a research facility developing a totally new drug that could cure an illness that has not been possible before. We’ve also serviced devices in research laboratories working on -for example- finding a cure for COVID-19. Being part of such groundbreaking work and knowing the potential impact on millions of lives is incredibly rewarding. This kind of exposure to cutting-edge research and development is a unique aspect of working as a Field Calibration Engineer at Vaisala. Imagine being on the front lines of innovation and seeing the future of medicine unfold before your eyes!

It can’t be all good and exciting. What challenges does your team face, and how are they addressed?
Russell: Well, there are ups and downs with everything. Extensive travel can be demanding but also incredibly rewarding. Our team travels a lot, which requires a high level of commitment and adaptability. Additionally, working in sterile environments with strict gowning procedures can sometimes be challenging. However, the support from Vaisala and the opportunity to work on impactful projects make these challenges worthwhile. The thrill of overcoming these challenges and making a difference in our customers’ critical projects adds to the excitement of the role.

How does Vaisala support the professional growth of its employees?
Russell: Vaisala supports professional growth through various training programs and career development opportunities. Employees are encouraged to explore different roles and departments, ensuring they can grow within the company. This commitment to development means you can continuously learn and advance your career while working on exciting projects. I think I’m a good example of that. I’ve done various roles here over the years and felt that my professional growth is well looked after.

Why do you feel Vaisala is a great place to work?
Russell: Vaisala offers a supportive and caring work environment with generous benefits and a strong focus on work-life balance. The company values its employees and provides ample opportunities for career growth and development. With a culture that encourages innovation, new talent can thrive and make a significant impact at Vaisala. The chance to work on groundbreaking projects and be part of a team that values your contributions makes Vaisala an exciting place to start and grow your career.

Finally, what advice would you give to someone considering a career as a Field Service Engineer at Vaisala?
Russell: Embrace the challenges and opportunities that come with the role. Be prepared for extensive travel and working independently but also be excited about diverse projects and the chance to make a real difference in critical industries. Vaisala offers a supportive environment and numerous opportunities for growth, making it an excellent choice for those looking to advance their careers. The thrill of working on impactful projects and the chance to see the world make this role truly exciting!

Thank you, Russell, for this chat!
Russell: You’re welcome!