SR. TECHNICIAN - TECHNICIAN - Nondestructive Testing Weld Inspection

Southwest Research Institute; San Antonio (TX); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Southwest Research Institute in San Antonio, TX seeks a hands-on NDT Inspector to perform inspections across large-scale fabrication projects. You will conduct VT, UT, MT, RT, and PT inspections, review drawings, and ensure quality and safety standards are met.

The role requires 3+ years in weld inspection, strong communication, and the ability to travel up to 10%. A valid driver's license is expected and proficiency with MS Office is required.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or associate's degree in NDT/engineering/physical science/tech preferred.
• 3+ years' structural weld inspection experience.
• AWS CWI strongly preferred; welding proficiency.
• Ability to read engineering drawings, WPS, and technical docs.
• Familiar with UT, MT, PT, RT, ET; Level I+ certifications preferred.
• Strong communication in oral and written formats.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office.
• Able to work independently and in teams; travel up to 10%.

Responsibilities

• Perform VT visual tests of structural welds per codes (AWS, ASME, ABS).
• Conduct UT, MT, RT, PT nondestructive testing.
• Identify weld defects to maintain quality and safety.
• Prepare detailed inspection reports communicating findings clearly.
• Collaborate with welding, engineering, and inspection teams.
• Attain certifications in NDI methods.

Skills

Ultrasonic Testing

Magnetic Particle Testing

Radiographic Testing

Penetrant Testing

Reading drawings

Welding proficiency

Communication skills

Microsoft Office

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Associate's degree in Nondestructive Testing, Engineering, Physical Science, or Technology

Tools

Microsoft Office

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 inspections to assess the serviceability of a variety of structures, from deep sea to deep space. The following information provides an overview of the skills, qualities, and qualifications needed for this role. By joining our team, you will receive an additional $500 in your first paycheck, minus taxes.

Objectives of this Role:

Perform hands‑on inspections of multiple large‑scale fabrication efforts for a variety of industries and application areas at Southwest Research Institute located in San Antonio, TX.

Maintain safety and quality requirements by following relevant procedures, laws, regulations, and customer requirements. 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.).
• Conduct nondestructive testing using methods such as Ultrasonic Testing (UT), Magnetic Particle Testing (MT), Radiographic Testing (RT), and Penetrant Testing (PT).
• Identify weld defects or inconsistencies to maintain production quality and safety.
• Prepare detailed inspection reports that communicate findings clearly and accurately.
• Collaborate with welding, engineering, and inspection teams.
• Attain necessary qualifications for certification in multiple nondestructive inspection methods.

Requirements:

• A high school diploma or equivalent is required or an Associate's degree in Nondestructive Testing, Engineering, Physical Science, or Technology, or equivalent is strongly preferred.
• 3+ years: Years of structural weld inspection experience.
• Certified Welding Inspector (AWS) strongly preferred; Proficiency in welding strongly preferred.
• Proficiency in reading engineering drawings, welding procedure specifications (WPS), and technical documentation.
• Familiarity with multiple nondestructive testing methods (UT, MT, PT, RT, and/or ET) is required; current certifications at Level I or higher in one or more methods are preferred.
• Able to communicate effectively in both oral and written formats.
• Comfortable working with computers and proficient with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Able to work both within a team and individually with minimal direct supervision.
• Willingness to travel occasionally (up to 10%) in support of projects away from SwRI.
• xhqgsiq A valid/clear driver's license is required.