How do I go about trying to find a job in the NDT field?

Question

I was in the Navy for six years, and went through the Navy's NDT courses, and left the Navy with the primary specialty of HT 4944 and HT 4942. Was wondering what I would have to do to get involved in Non Destructive Testing now that I'm no longer in the Navy.

Answer 1

Not familiar with Navy terms.
In aeorospace (and in many other industries) NDT follows ASTM specs. ASTM 1444 = MPI (Mt), 1417 FPI (PT) 1418 Red Dye.

NAS 410 governs the training hours required for Lev 1,2, and 3.
A major Mnfctrer will have their own procedures, but it usually complies with ASTM.

Documenting your training is VERY important. If you don't have copies of your training records, try to get them.

Most employers don't want to hire people w/out the records, because it means they will have to document training you for 400+ hours on the job and 32 (varies) hours classroom.

They'll go with a canidate who can supply the records and start inspecting parts in the short term.

ASNT.org and Inspectionjobs.com may help.

The good news is, if you have the training records, you are in demand.

FPI and MPI are fairly common, Xray less common, Certainly eddy current and UT are around too, but I'm not familiar with them.

Defense manufacturers are good places to apply.
Also aircraft engine overhaul services. In your case ...Sub and ship manufacturers would be a natural, if any are in your area.

Hellier assoc's in CT is a reputable school to get documented classroom training. Takes 1 week (most) and I about $900.

Good Luck

Answer 2

look in the yellow pages under metallurgists and see if they are hiring