PRINCIPAL TECHNICIAN - STAFF TECHNICIAN - Nondestructive Testing Weld Inspection

Southwest Research Institute; San Antonio (TX); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Southwest Research Institute's Sensor Systems and NDE team seeks an experienced NDT Inspector to lead detailed inspection operations across large-scale fabrication projects. You will audit third-party groups, perform VT and multiple NDT methods, and manage the full inspection cycle from setup to documentation, ensuring compliance with industry codes.

Qualifications include a 10-year weld inspection background, ASNT NAS-410/ SNT-TC-1A Level II in UT, and strong reading of drawings.

Qualifications

• Requires high school diploma; Associates degree preferred in NDT, Eng, Physical Science or Tech.
• 10 years of structural weld inspection experience and NDT background required.
• Must meet Level II ASNT SNT-TC-1A and/or NAS-410 in UT.
• Desirable: phased array, TOFD, automated inspection certifications.

Responsibilities

• Perform VT visual tests of structural welds per AWS/ASME/ABS codes.
• Identify weld defects to maintain quality and safety.
• Conduct UT, MT, RT, PT nondestructive testing methods.
• Prepare detailed inspection reports with findings for teams.
• Maintain certifications for multiple methods and pursue new credentials.

Skills

NDT experience

Reading engineering drawings

Communication skills

Education

Associates degree in Nondestructive Testing or equivalent

Tools

MS Word

PowerPoint

Excel

Job description

Who We Are

The Sensor Systems and Nondestructive Evaluation (NDE) Technology team is comprised of engineers, scientists, and technicians who develop sensor systems and inspection methodologies and perform and monitor inspections to assess the serviceability of a variety of structures from deep sea to deep space. By joining our team, you will receive an additional $500 in your first paycheck, minus taxes.

Objectives of this Role

Perform inspection operations for multiple large-scale fabrication efforts for a variety of industries and application areas. Audit and monitor third-party inspection groups during inspection operations to ensure necessary certifications are met and procedures are followed. Perform conventional and novel inspection tasks in a variety of inspection methods. Manage the entire inspection process, including pre-job setup, procedure reviews, equipment calibration, post-job cleanup, and documentation. Assist with experimental setups, prototype inspections, and data collection for new sensor and NDE techniques.

Daily and Monthly Responsibilities

• Perform detailed visual tests (VT) of structural welds to ensure conformance with relevant codes (AWS, ASME, ABS, etc.).
• Identify weld defects or inconsistencies to maintain production quality and safety.
• Conduct nondestructive testing using methods such as Ultrasonic Testing (UT), Magnetic Particle Testing (MT), Radiographic Testing (RT), and Penetrant Testing (PT).
• Utilize autonomy and discretion to independently ensure compliance with NDE codes and regulations.
• Under minimal supervision, prepare detailed inspection reports that communicate findings clearly and accurately, and collaborate with welding, engineering, and inspection teams.
• Maintain necessary qualifications for certification in multiple methods; acquire additional certifications and credentials as required for projects and career development.

Requirements

• Requires a high school diploma or equivalent.
• Associates degree in Nondestructive Testing, Engineering, Physical Science, or Technology, or equivalent is preferred.
• 10 years: Structural weld inspection experience and professional experience in NDT is required.
• Must currently meet the qualification requirements for Level II following ASNT SNT-TC-1A and/or NAS-410 in ultrasonic testing (UT).
• Experience and preferably certifications in advanced techniques (phased array, TOFD, automated inspection techniques, etc.) is desirable.
• Familiarity with production environments & maintenance programs in multiple industries such as power plants, pressure vessels, pipelines, aerospace, and ships is preferred.
• Proficiency in reading engineering drawings, welding procedure specifications (WPS), & technical documents.
• Experience with MS Word, PowerPoint, and Excel is required.
• Must be able to communicate effectively in both oral and written formats.
• Must be able to work both within a team and individually with little direct supervision and direction.
• Willingness to travel occasionally.
• A valid/clear driver's license is required.

Special Requirements

Applicant selected will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. Applicant must be a U.S. citizen.

Job Locations

San Antonio, Texas

Military Friendly

Your military experience may apply to this position

For more information about this division

Visit the Mechanical Engineering home page.

An Equal Employment Opportunity Employer

Race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, and veteran status.