Non-Destructive Testing Specialists
Test the safety of structures, vehicles, or vessels using x-ray, ultrasound, fiber optic or related equipment.
SOC: 17-3029.01
Common Job Titles
- 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)
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- Hands-onOperate x-ray, ultrasound, eddy current, and fiber optic inspection equipment to test structural integrity of materials, vehicles, and vessels in accordance with safety standards.Proficient
- KnowledgeEvaluate inspection results against established safety and quality standards using knowledge of physics, engineering principles, and regulatory compliance requirements.Proficient
- MindsetAdvocate adherence to safety protocols and radiation protection standards when conducting x-ray and gamma ray testing in industrial or field environments.Proficient
- KnowledgeExplain non-destructive testing techniques, equipment capabilities, and interpretation methods when training technicians or consulting with stakeholders on inspection requirements.Proficient
- KnowledgeInterpret computerized tomography scans and digital imaging data using specialized software to identify subsurface defects and assess structural integrity in complex geometries.Proficient
- KnowledgeAnalyze non-destructive testing data including acoustic emissions, radiographic images, and ultrasonic measurements to detect defects, discontinuities, and material degradation in critical structures.Developing
- Hands-onCalibrate specialized testing instruments including digital micrometers, oscilloscopes, and ultrasonic transducers following established protocols to ensure measurement accuracy and equipment reliability.Developing
- KnowledgeApply mathematical and physics principles to calculate material properties and flaw severity using computer software and measurement data to determine safety margins.Developing
- KnowledgePrepare detailed inspection reports documenting findings, test methods, and compliance determinations using technical writing skills to communicate results to engineers, managers, and regulatory authorities.Developing
- MindsetEngage with cross-functional teams including engineers, maintenance personnel, and quality assurance staff to coordinate inspection schedules and communicate critical safety findings.Developing
- Hands-onPerform multiple NDT methods including magnetic particle, liquid penetrant, and thermographic inspections adapting techniques to diverse materials and structural configurations under varying field conditions.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Non-Destructive Testing Specialists (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
64,410
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $47,010. 25th percentile: U.S. $59,700. 50th percentile: U.S. $77,390. 75th percentile: U.S. $97,760. 90th percentile: U.S. $114,630. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $47,010 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $114,630 |
| Workers on average earn | $79,740 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Engineering and Technology4.1/5
- Mathematics4.0/5
- English Language3.9/5
- Physics3.8/5
- Education and Training3.7/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Autodesk AutoCAD
- Microsoft Access
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Project
- Microsoft Word
- SAP software
Technology Skills
- Dassault Systemes CATIA
- Fractal Concept SoftScan
- GE Sensing & Inspection Technologies Rhythm UT
- Geographic information system GIS systems
- IBM Notes
- National Instruments DAQ Assistant
- National Instruments LabVIEW
- National Instruments NI Motion Assistant
Tools & Equipment
- Acoustic emissions systems
- Acoustic testers
- Amp meters
- Binocular polarizing microscopes
- Binoculars
- Black lights
- Capacitance testers
- Charge-coupled device CCD cameras