How To Become An NDT Technician: What It Is and Career Path

What is an ndt technician and how to become one

Updated January 8, 2025

3 min read

A nondestructive testing technician, also known as an NDT Technician, uses various technological tools to inspect products and determine flaws. They carry out different testing methods to establish their results. These tests cover a variety of aspects, but the most prominent ones are on metal and concrete.

NDT involves carrying out different tests and inspections to evaluate data about a system or material without altering the material. They must be knowledgeable in the various methods used to establish the facts about any material under study

To qualify for this position, you need a minimum of a high school diploma and other accompanying certificates. Some employers also demand working experience as an NDT technician. Most companies also prefer candidates with a degree in nondestructive testing technology. Strong attention to detail and top-notch reporting skills are also helpful in this field.

ScoreNDT TechnicianUS Average

Salary

3.7

Avg. Salary $46,805

Avg. Salary $59,228

Diversity

6.9

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 0.69%

Asian 7.47%

Black or African American 9.51%

Hispanic or Latino 16.77%

Unknown 4.88%

White 60.69%

Gender

female 6.58%

male 93.42%

Age - 46

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%

Asian 7.00%

Black or African American 14.00%

Hispanic or Latino 19.00%

White 57.00%

Gender

female 47.00%

male 53.00%

Age - 46

Stress level

7.5

Stress level is high

7.1 - high

Complexity level

8.3

Complexity level is challenging

7 - challenging

Work life balance

2.1

Work life balance is very poor

6.4 - fair

Key steps to become an ndt technician

Explore ndt technician education requirements

Most common ndt technician degrees

Associate

31.9 %

High School Diploma

26.0 %

Bachelor's

18.8 %

Start to develop specific ndt technician skills

Skills	Percentages
PT	16.45%
Non-Destructive	9.95%
Destructive Testing	9.10%
Aerospace	6.19%
Test Results	5.72%

Complete relevant ndt technician training and internships

Accountants spend an average of 6-12 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New ndt technicians learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as an ndt technician based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real ndt technician resumes.

Gain additional ndt technician certifications

Ndt technician certifications can show employers you have a baseline of knowledge expected for the position. Certifications can also make you a more competitive candidate. Even if employers don't require a specific ndt technician certification, having one may help you stand out relative to other applicants.

The most common certifications for ndt technicians include NDT-Radiographic Film Interpretation of Pipeline Welds (NDT) and Certified Welding Inspector (CWI).

More About Certifications

Research ndt technician duties and responsibilities

Perform adjustments to CIP equipment and run computer programs in order to automate the cleaning and sanitizing of the equipment.
Process FPI & MPI parts per customer requirements.
Perform inspections per ASME, AWS or customer specs.
Develop and maintain procedures and techniques in all NDE methods.

Prepare your ndt technician resume

When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your ndt technician resume.

You can use Zippia's AI resume builder to make the resume writing process easier while also making sure that you include key information that hiring managers expect to see on an ndt technician resume. You'll find resume tips and examples of skills, responsibilities, and summaries, all provided by Zippi, your career sidekick.

Choose from 10+ customizable ndt technician resume templates

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