Non-destructive testing technician
Job Description:Non-destructive testing (NDT) technicians test materials and components used in buildings, structures and machinery.
Job Category:What you will do:
Your day-to-day duties may include:
- visually inspecting materials – using CCTV and fibre optic cameras
- conducting thermal imaging – to find defects in concrete and other building materials
- dye testing – staining surfaces with fluorescent liquid
- magnetic particle testing – applying magnetic particles to materials
- radiographic testing – using X-rays to find internal faults
- ultrasonic testing – firing high frequency sound pulses into materials
- eddy current testing – passing electricity through materials
- resonant testing – ‘listening’ to the growth of cracks or flaws by monitoring the acoustic vibrations of a structure
- assessing the risks from hazardous materials, for example those used in construction
Skills:
You will need:
- maths knowledge
- knowledge of engineering science and technology
- knowledge of physics
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently
As well as:
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail (organisational skills)
- analytical thinking skills
- the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
- the ability to work well with others (teamwork skills)
- the ability to analyse quality or performance
Entry Requirements:
While specific subjects might not be universally mandated for this career, certain subjects can provide a strong foundation and improve your chances of success in this field. Here are some subjects that could be beneficial:
- Mathematics: Mathematics is crucial for understanding and applying various NDT techniques, especially when it comes to interpreting data, performing calculations, and analysing results.
- Physics: Physics principles underlie many NDT methods. A solid understanding of topics like waves, sound, and electromagnetic radiation can be valuable in comprehending the underlying principles of NDT techniques.
- Science: General science knowledge, including chemistry and biology, can contribute to your understanding of materials, their properties, and their interactions with NDT methods.
- Engineering: While not a common subject, if you have the opportunity to study introductory engineering concepts, it can provide you with a valuable foundation for understanding the equipment and technology used in NDT.
- English: Strong communication skills, including reading, writing, and interpreting technical documentation, are important for NDT technicians.
- IT/Computing: Basic computer skills are becoming increasingly important in various industries, including NDT, as technology plays a significant role in data analysis and reporting.
Post School
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
College
You might be able to find a place as a trainee technician after doing a qualification at college. Relevant courses include:
- Certificate in Welding
- Diploma in Engineering
- Extended Certificate in Applied Science
- Certificate in Engineering, Manufacturing, Processing and Control
Apprenticeship
You could complete an intermediate apprenticeship for non-destructive testing (NDT) operators or an advanced apprenticeship for NDT technicians.
Work
You can do a foundation degree in non-destructive testing (NDT) if you’re already working in this area, for example in an engineering workshop or a materials testing lab.
Working Hours and Environment:
You could typically work 41 to 43 hours a week.
You could work in a factory, in a workshop or in a laboratory and you may need to wear protective clothing.
Career Path & Progression:
With experience, you could become a senior non-destructive technician, or specialise in a particular form of testing.
You could move into quality assurance, purchasing, technical sales, management, or research and development.
You could work towards a degree through part-time study or a degree apprenticeship to become a qualified NDT engineer.