NDT Inspector - Level III

PCX Aerostructures, LLC; Manchester (CT); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

PCX Aerostructures, LLC is seeking an NDT Inspector – Level III to oversee non-destructive testing for aerospace components in Manchester, Connecticut. The role requires at least 7 years of NDT experience, including FPI, MPI, and Nital Etch methodologies, alongside a Level III certification.

Candidates must possess strong problem-solving abilities, interpersonal skills for collaboration with various departments, and an acute attention to detail. The position also emphasizes the importance of workplace safety and the use of proper personal protective equipment.

Qualifications

• US Citizenship or green card holder.
• 7+ years of Aerospace NDT inspection experience in FPI, MPI and Nital Etch.
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.

Responsibilities

• Interpret standards and ensure compliance with NDT methods.
• Create and maintain Work Instructions.
• Monitor inspector performance and quality assurance.

Skills

Aerospace NDT inspection

X-ray analysis

Ultrasonic analysis

Technical drawings reading

Strong leadership

Problem-solving skills

Attention to detail

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Associate degree or above in Science or Engineering

NDT Level III certification

Tools

Visual gauges

Safety equipment

Job description

NDT Inspector – Level III

Applied Aerospace & Defense (Applied) is a premier provider of advanced design, engineering, and vertically integrated manufacturing solutions for leading and next‑generation space and defense technology companies. Applied builds complex hardware for extreme operating environments and focuses on three core markets: Space and Launch Systems, Defense Aviation and Airborne Systems, and C5ISR and Precision Strike Systems. With decades of space and defense manufacturing heritage, Applied combines deep material science and IP‑enabled process expertise to enable rapid prototyping, enhance new product development, and responsively scale production.

Applied Aerospace and Defense is an equal opportunity employer.

Responsibilities

• Interpret standards and other contractual documents that control the NDT methods(s).
• Ensure that procedures and instructions are in compliance with the applicable industry standards and specifications.
• Create, approve and maintain detailed part specific Work Instructions (Technique Cards).
• Continuously evaluate equipment and tools needed to perform inspections for continual improvement and inspection efficiency.
• Assume technical responsibility for the NDT facility and staff.
• Ensure NDT inspectors are qualified and certified in accordance with applicable industry standards (NAS 410) and maintain all NDT inspector qualification records.
• Monitor inspector performance and quality of inspections.
• Support in‑process and final NDT inspections as appropriate.
• Prepare and verify the adequacy of procedures in the method certificate.
• Review documentation for completeness and accuracy, including part specific traveler/router, work instruction, purchase order, vendor certification, inspection reports, process log and other applicable documents required to maintain traceability and record.
• Perform FPI, MPI and Nital Etch inspections in accordance with internal and customer specifications.
• Review all questionable indications and initiate discrepancy reports, internal and external, for products not meeting drawing and specification requirements.
• Perform all NDT daily, weekly and monthly tasks in accordance with established procedures.
• Review and determine acceptance of all products for meeting NDT requirements.
• Review and accept travelers to assure all sign‑offs are complete and revision levels meet Operational Book Requirements.
• Review all processing certifications to meet customer specifications.
• Present inspected parts to various customer representatives and address any customer questions or concerns.
• Conduct internal audits of special process areas to assure conformance to requirements.
• Lead external audit and resolve customer concerns.
• Maintain a clean and safe working environment; assess current working conditions and recommend improved methods to assure safety.
• Mentor, coach and train associates in your area of expertise.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit and stand for an extended period of time.
• Fine motor skills with frequent hand and arm movement.
• Frequent twisting, stooping and bending.
• Ability to lift 50 lbs.
• Must meet visual acuity requirements (color and near vision – corrected or uncorrected).

Unusual Environmental Conditions

• Loud machining environment; exposure to aerospace metals, lubricants, and NDI chemicals.

Required Personal Protective Equipment

• Safety glasses/shields, appropriate manufacturing closed‑toed footwear, hearing protection, respirator, gloves and protective clothing may be required along with other protective equipment as needed.

Qualifications

• US Citizenship or green card holder.
• High School Diploma or equivalent (Associate degree or above in Science or Engineering is preferred).
• NDT Level III certification required.
• 7+ years of Aerospace NDT inspection experience in FPI, MPI and Nital Etch.
• Ability to use visual gauges (e.g., pressure gauges, light meters, etc.).
• X‑ray and ultrasonic analysis skills.
• Ability to read technical drawings and specifications.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to develop, qualify and approve procedures; establish approving techniques, interpret codes, standards, specifications and procedures, and designate particular NDT methods and techniques.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to work with other departments (Engineering, Operations, Sales, and Quality) to resolve customer concerns.
• Basic computer skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
• Strong problem‑solving skills.