NDT Engineer: Innovate Testing, Automate & Improve Quality

First Search Inc.; Spring Grove (IL); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

First Search Inc. is seeking an NDE Engineer to support and advance inspection technologies across multiple manufacturing operations in the U.S. This role blends engineering, manufacturing, quality, and advanced NDT in a hands-on environment.

The position partners with Quality, Metallurgy, Process Engineering, Production, and certified NDT personnel to improve inspection processes, troubleshoot challenges, and drive continuous improvement initiatives.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or Electrical Engineering.
• 0–5 years of engineering experience through internships, co-ops, research, senior design projects, or manufacturing.
• Understanding of NDT methods including UT, MT, and PT.
• Ability to qualify under ASNT SNT-TC-1A or ISO 9712 certification programs.

Responsibilities

• Support and improve non-destructive testing processes including Ultrasonic Testing (UT), Magnetic Particle (MT), Liquid Penetrant (PT), and Radiographic Testing (RT).
• Develop and maintain NDT procedures, work instructions, inspection techniques, and ultrasonic reference standards.
• Troubleshoot inspection and manufacturing issues using structured problem-solving methodologies such as 8D, Root Cause Analysis, Fishbone, and Lean principles.
• Evaluate and implement new inspection technologies including Phased Array UT, immersion systems, automation, and robotics.
• Design solutions to improve safety and ergonomics within NDT operations.
• Support equipment calibration, verification, documentation, and inspection readiness.
• Review customer specifications, engineering drawings, and acceptance criteria to determine appropriate inspection methods.
• Analyze inspection data and nonconformance trends to identify opportunities for process improvements.
• Provide technical support to Quality, Production, Engineering, Metallurgy, and NDT personnel.
• Assist with training and mentoring NDT technicians while supporting internal and customer quality audits.
• Participate in Lean, Six Sigma, 6S, and continuous improvement initiatives throughout the organization.

Job description

First Search Inc. is seeking an NDE Engineer to support and advance inspection technologies across multiple manufacturing operations in the U.S. This role blends engineering, manufacturing, quality, and advanced NDT in a hands-on environment.

The position partners with Quality, Metallurgy, Process Engineering, Production, and certified NDT personnel to improve inspection processes, troubleshoot challenges, and drive continuous improvement initiatives.