Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) Technician
What is the work like?
Non-destructive testing (NDT) technicians examine the physical properties of materials and parts to find corrosion, cracks, flaws and other imperfections, which might lead to unreliable product performance or in the worst case, product failure. NDT methods are also used in quality control procedures in many industries, including, aerospace, road and rail transport, manufacturing and power generation.
As an NDT technician, you would use a range of methods to test materials and parts, including:
- visual inspection – using lenses, CCTV and fibre optic cameras
- dye testing – staining surfaces with fluorescent liquid, which shows up flaws under ultraviolet lighting
- magnetic particle testing – applying magnetic particles to magnetised materials, so they line up along cracks and defects (often combined with dye testing)
- radiographic testing – using X-rays to find internal faults
- ultrasonic testing – firing high frequency sound pulses into materials and analysing the differences in the reflected signals
- eddy current testing – passing electricity through materials and measuring the differences in the flow of current
- resonant testing – 'listening' to the growth of cracks or flaws by monitoring the acoustic vibrations of a structure, for example a bridge support.
In manufacturing, you would work with materials at every stage of production to make sure they are safe. For example, in aircraft construction, you would test materials when they are first made, while the fuselage is being built, and at regular intervals throughout the operating life of the aircraft.
An important part of your work is to make sure that the testing method you use does not have any harmful effect on the materials, parts or machinery under examination.
What qualifications and experience will employers look for?
You would normally need qualifications in science or engineering to get into NDT work, such as GCSEs (A-C), A levels or equivalents, in maths, science, physics or chemistry.
You may be able to get into this job through an Apprenticeship scheme. The range of Apprenticeships available in your area will depend on the local jobs market and the types of skills employers need from their workers. For more information on Apprenticeships, visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk.
You could take a BTEC national certificate or diploma in an engineering subject at college, for example the BTEC Certificate and Diploma in Manufacturing Engineering (Fabrication and Welding) has specific units covering NDT testing and quality control.
Higher-level courses like a foundation degree, BTEC HNC/HND or degree in materials science or engineering would give you more options. See the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (IOM 3) for details of course providers at this level.
Contact the British Institute of Non-Destructive Testing for more details about careers in NDT and training providers.
What further training and development can I do?
Your employer would give you on-the-job training once you start and, with experience, you could work towards certification within your job area. You could do this in one of two ways:
- by completing an internationally recognised certification programme, such as the Personnel Certification in Non-Destructive Testing (PCN) scheme or the American Society for Non-destructive Testing (ASNT) scheme
- by completing a company's own in-house certification programme.
You should be aware that the in-house option may not necessarily be transferable to other companies or industries.
You could also work towards the NVQ in Non-Destructive Testing at Level 3, which is approved by the Engineering and Construction Industry Training Board.
Contact the British Institute of Non-Destructive Testing for details of accredited training, certification and professional development schemes.
If you work in welding and inspection, you can gain certification by taking The Welding Institute’s (TWI) Certificate Scheme for Welding and Inspection Personnel (CSWIP). You can do this at several skill levels, depending on your job. See the TWI for details.
Where can I go for more information?
Granta ParkGreat Abington
Cambridge
CB21 6AL
Tel: 01223 899000
Watford
Hertfordshire
WD18 0JT
Tel: 0800 282167
Northampton
NN1 5AA
Tel: 01604 630124
London
SW1Y 5DB
Tel: 020 7451 7300
If you would like to discuss your career options with a learning adviser, call 0800 100 900 or use our online enquiry form
Alternatively, you can visit our website at: www.direct.gov.uk/careersadvice
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What salary and other benefits can I expect?
- Newly qualified technicians can expect to earn around £16,500.
- An experienced technician earns between £18,000 and £22,000.
- Senior staff can earn up to £25,000.
This section is intended as a guideline only.
What are the hours and working conditions?
Hours are typically 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday. Shifts and weekend work are also common.
You could be based in a laboratory, factory production area or workshop, depending on the job.
You would wear protective clothing, including gloves and a face mask for certain jobs.
What skills and knowledge will I need?
- good problem-solving ability
- an aptitude for science and engineering
- attention to detail
- the ability to use a wide range of tools and instruments
- good IT skills
- good written and spoken communication skills
- good eyesight and normal colour vision
- an understanding of health and safety issues.
What opportunities are there?
Your prospects would depend on your qualifications and experience, but there is a regular demand for skilled technicians in all sectors.
You may be able to progress to senior NDT technician, specialise in a particular form of testing, or move into quality assurance, purchasing, technical sales or management. You may also find research and development posts with some UK or overseas universities.
You may find the following links useful for job vacancies and general reading: (links open in new window)
BINDT
Engineering Jobs Network
JustEngineers.net
The Engineer Online
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