Non-Destructive Testers and Inspection Technicians

Nature of work

Non-destructive testers and inspection technicians use radiographic, ultrasonic, liquid penetrant, magnetic particle, eddy current and similar testing equipment to conduct tests that provide information about the condition about materials and components without destroying them. They work for quality control, maintenance and safety departments of manufacturing, processing, transportation, energy and other companies and by private industrial inspection companies.

Job duties

Non-destructive testers and inspection technicians:

• Set up and calibrate non-destructive testing equipment.
• Conduct tests to ensure quality or detect discontinuities (defects) using ultrasonic, radiographic, liquid penetrant, magnetic particle, eddy current and other non-destructive testing methods.
• Determine techniques to examine objects under inspection that follow safety regulations.
• Interpret radiographs, cathode ray tube (CRT) or digital readouts, conductivity meters and visual indicators.
• Apply testing criteria according to specifications or standards and evaluate results.
• Organize and report test results.
• May perform specialized inspections using acoustic emission, vibration analysis, infrared thermography, and laser shearography testing methods.
• May instruct and supervise trainees.

Sample job titles

• non-destructive examination technician
• non-destructive examiner
• non-destructive inspection technician
• non-destructive inspector
• non-destructive tester
• non-destructive testing maintenance (NDT) technician

Skills

• The ability to work effectively with the public under various circumstances is crucial. Good communication skills in person and in writing are important. Good observational and analytical skills are necessary. You must have an interest in precision work and be accurate and able to pay close attention to detail. An interest in analyzing information to interpret indicators and evaluate test results is important. You need good motor coordination and manual dexterity.

Job requirements

• High school is required.
• Two years of an approved post-secondary science or engineering program may be required.
• Additional classroom and on-the-job training is required for certification in non-destructive testing.
• Non-destructive testing certification by Natural Resources Canada is available in three levels and is usually required by employers.
• Industrial radiographers using a radioactive isotope must pass an examination to be recognized as a certified exposure device operator by the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission.
• Welding inspector certification by the Canadian Welding Bureau is available in three levels and may be required by employers.
• Boiler and pressure vessel, process pipeline and above-ground storage tank inspector certification is available from the American Petroleum Institute.

Other considerations

• Working conditions and workplace hazards vary for these roles. There is some risk involved in working on construction sites or in manufacturing plants. Shiftwork is common and overtime is often required. Travel may also be required. Continuous learning is necessary to keep up to date with constantly changing technology.

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