Nondestructive Testing Engineer

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

Job summary

First Search Inc. in Illinois seeks an NDE Engineer to support and advance inspection technologies across multiple manufacturing operations. You will combine mechanical engineering with quality and NDT tech hands-on.

The role collaborates with Quality, Metallurgy, Process Engineering, Production and certified NDT personnel to improve inspection processes, troubleshoot challenges, and drive continuous improvement using UT, MT, PT, RT, and newer technologies.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering.
• 0–5 years of engineering experience (internships/co-ops acceptable).
• Understanding of NDT methods UT, MT, and PT.
• ASNT SNT-TC-1A or ISO 9712 certification programs.
• Experience interpreting engineering drawings and technical documentation.
• CAD experience (SolidWorks preferred).
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and manufacturing or quality systems.
• Comfortable working in both office and manufacturing environments.

Responsibilities

• Support and improve non-destructive testing processes including UT, MT, PT, and RT.
• Develop and maintain NDT procedures, work instructions, and inspection techniques.
• Troubleshoot issues using 8D, Root Cause Analysis, Fishbone, and Lean principles.
• Evaluate and implement new inspection technologies including Phased Array UT and automation.
• Design solutions to improve safety and ergonomics in NDT operations.
• Support equipment calibration, verification, documentation, and inspection readiness.
• Review customer specifications and drawings to determine inspection methods.
• Analyze inspection data and nonconformance trends for process improvements.
• Provide technical support to Quality, Production, Engineering, Metallurgy, and NDT staff.
• Assist with training and mentoring NDT technicians and audits.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Technical writing

Communication

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering

Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

MS Office

Job description

A leading U.S. manufacturer of highly engineered forged components is seeking a Non-Destructive Examination (NDE) Engineer to support and advance inspection technologies across multiple manufacturing operations. This is an outstanding opportunity for an early-career engineer who wants to combine engineering, manufacturing, quality, and advanced NDT technologies in a hands-on environment.

This role partners closely with Quality, Metallurgy, Process Engineering, Production, and certified NDT personnel to improve inspection processes, troubleshoot manufacturing challenges, introduce new technologies, and drive continuous improvement initiatives.

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

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
• Experience interpreting engineering drawings, specifications, and technical documentation
• CAD experience (SolidWorks preferred)
• Strong analytical, communication, and technical writing skills
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and manufacturing or quality systems
• Comfortable working in both engineering offices and manufacturing environments

Preferred Experience

• Hands-on experience with ultrasonic, magnetic particle, penetrant, or radiographic inspection
• ASNT Level II certification (or progress toward certification)
• Metals, forging, steel, or heavy manufacturing experience
• Experience with ERP/MRP systems, inspection reporting software, or quality management systems
• Exposure to robotics or automated inspection systems

Additional Information

• Manufacturing and shop floor environment
• Up to 15% travel between facilities
• Opportunity to work with advanced inspection technologies in a world-class metals manufacturing operation
• Excellent opportunity for an engineer looking to build expertise in NDT, manufacturing engineering, and quality systems