What do non-destructive testing specialists do?
Test the safety of structures, vehicles, or vessels using x-ray, ultrasound, fiber optic or related equipment.
This describes a U.S. occupation, not a live vacancy. Individual employers may use different titles and requirements.
Job titles to recognize in your search
O*NET reports these titles for this occupation. Compare the responsibilities in each posting before treating titles as equivalent.
- Industrial Radiographer
- NDE Technician (Non-Destructive Evaluation Technician)
- NDT Coordinator (Non-Destructive Testing Coordinator)
- NDT Inspector (Non-Destructing Testing Inspector)
- NDT Specialist (Non-Destructive Testing Specialist)
- NDT Technical Specialist (Non-Destructive Testing Technical Specialist)
- NDT Technician (Non-Destructive Testing Technician)
Core tasks to compare with a job posting
- 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.
- Document non-destructive testing methods, processes, or results.
- Produce images of objects on film, using radiographic techniques.
Prepare an application for this occupation
- Check the employer’s requirements, location, schedule and any licenses against your situation.
- Choose two or three tasks above that match the posting and your actual experience.
- Build a resume evidence worksheet using the skills and software relevant to that employer.
- Practice explaining your contribution, decisions and results before an interview.
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