Non-destructive testing (NDT) is a type of testing used to evaluate the properties of a material, component, or system without causing damage. It is used in a variety of industries, such as aerospace, automotive, manufacturing, and construction.

NDT methods include visual inspection, ultrasonic testing, radiography, eddy current testing, and magnetic particle testing. These methods are used to detect defects such as cracks, corrosion, and other flaws that can affect the safety and performance of components or systems.

NDT jobs range from entry-level positions to highly skilled, market-leading roles. Entry-level positions may involve carrying out basic NDT inspections using simple tools and techniques, while more advanced roles may require specialised training and certification in order to carry out NDT tests using sophisticated equipment.

Common job titles include NDT technician, quality control inspector, non-destructive testing engineer, and radiographer.

The qualifications required for NDT jobs vary depending on the role. Entry-level positions typically require a number of GCSE passes (in the UK), a high school diploma or equivalent, while more advanced roles may require additional education, such as a degree or higher in a related field.

In addition to formal education, employers may also require experience or certification to show your ability to obtain test results working with specific types of equipment or techniques.

NDT professionals are employed in a variety of industries, including aerospace, automotive, manufacturing, and construction. These professionals play an important role, inspecting components for defects that could affect safety or performance, such as cracks, corrosion, or other flaws. They may also be responsible for performing tests on new products prior to release into the marketplace.

The salary range for NDT jobs varies depending on experience level and location but, in the United States, for example, it generally ranges from $38-$60 per hour with an average salary of $79592 per year (according to ZipRecruiter). This compares favourably with other trades, such as electricians, which have an average salary of $56k per year (according to Payscale).

In the UK, the average full time salary is around £32,500 (according to Totaljobs), with a range of £27,000 to £46,711.

Training requirements vary depending on the type of job, but can involve completing an apprenticeship programme lasting up to four years, followed by certification exams administered by organisations such as the American Society for Non-Destructive Testing (ASNT).

Alternatively, you can train for an NDT role while working for a company or following academic study in a relevant course at university.

After completing training and any certification exams, individuals must maintain their certifications through continuing education courses in order to remain qualified for employment opportunities.

Common non-destructive testing techniques include visual inspection, ultrasonic testing (UT), radiography (RT), eddy current testing (ECT), and magnetic particle testing (MT).

Visual inspection involves examining components with the naked eye, while UT uses sound waves at high frequencies above human hearing range to detect flaws within materials; RT uses X-rays or gamma rays; ECT uses electrical currents; MT uses magnetism along with fluorescent particles suspended in liquid suspension applied directly onto the components being tested.

These techniques are used across different industries, including aerospace, where they are used for aircraft maintenance; the automotive industry, where they are used for vehicle inspection; the manufacturing industry, for quality control purposes; construction, where they are used for structural integrity checks; the oil and gas industry for pipeline integrity checks; and the medical industry, for imaging scans, etc.

Working in non-destructive testing provides job security due to its importance across multiple industries as well as career growth opportunities because of the wide range of applications requiring different levels of expertise, from entry-level technicians up through senior engineers managing complex projects involving multiple teams across different locations around the world.

Additionally, the requirement for specialised knowledge makes it an attractive option among those looking for higher-paying jobs than those available elsewhere within their respective fields/industries. NDT jobs may also provide the opportunity to travel, depending on your exact role and employer.

NDT specialists need to be able to accurately and clearly report their findings to others who may not be specialists themselves. This requires good levels of communication as well as a degree of responsibility, especially in critical applications.

Additionally, there can be risks associated with working around hazardous materials and in potentially dangerous work environments, so proper safety protocols must always be followed when dealing with these types of situations. Protective equipment should be used as required to stay safe on the job and all safety protocols should be followed.

As an engineering professional, it is also important to keep up with any required continuing education courses to maintain certifications, stay informed about any changes within your respective field/industry. Otherwise, use common sense when dealing with hazardous materials, take regular breaks throughout day to avoid fatigue, get plenty rest before starting your shift each day, etc.