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Non-Destructive Testing Specialists

Test the safety of structures, vehicles, or vessels using x-ray, ultrasound, fiber optic or related equipment.

What you’d do

  • Interpret the results of all methods of non-destructive testing (NDT), such as acoustic emission, electromagnetic, leak, liquid penetrant, magnetic particle, neutron radiographic, radiographic, thermal or infrared, ultrasonic, vibration analysis, and visual testing.
  • Interpret or evaluate test results in accordance with applicable codes, standards, specifications, or procedures.
  • Identify defects in solid materials, using ultrasonic testing techniques.
  • Make radiographic images to detect flaws in objects while leaving objects intact.
  • Prepare reports on non-destructive testing results.
  • Select, calibrate, or operate equipment used in the non-destructive testing of products or materials.
  • Visually examine materials, structures, or components for signs of corrosion, metal fatigue, cracks, or other flaws, using tools and equipment such as endoscopes, closed-circuit television systems, and fiber optics.
  • Examine structures or vehicles such as aircraft, trains, nuclear reactors, bridges, dams, and pipelines, using non-destructive testing techniques.

Skills that matter

  • Quality Control Analysis
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Active Listening
  • Critical Thinking
  • Monitoring
  • Active Learning

How to get there

Little to some preparation: usually a high school diploma or GED, though some jobs do not need one

Also called

  • NDE Technician (Non-Destructive Evaluation Technician)
  • NDT Specialist (Non-Destructive Testing Specialist)
  • NDT Technical Specialist (Non-Destructive Testing Technical Specialist)
  • NDT Technician (Non-Destructive Testing Technician)
  • Industrial Radiographer
  • NDT Coordinator (Non-Destructive Testing Coordinator)

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