Non-Destructive Testing Technician Career Path

Which professionals ensure airplanes are constructed with top-quality components? Who ensures roller coasters are built for maximum safety?

Non-destructive testing (NDT) technicians.

It’s a role that helps ensure the structural integrity of materials and equipment without causing damage, making it an essential position in industries like aerospace, automotive, manufacturing and energy.

Without NDT technicians, airplanes and spacecraft could fail mid-flight and buildings could crumble. That’s why they’re in demand across manufacturing industries. Without these professionals, the integrity of our infrastructure and technology is at stake.

Keep reading our NDT technician career guide to learn more about this career path!

What Does an NDT Technician Do?

A non-destructive testing technician is trained to inspect materials, parts or systems for flaws using specialized techniques that don’t compromise the item being evaluated. This might include ultrasonic, radiographic, eddy current, magnetic particle, visual and dye penetrant testing methods.

Daily tasks often involve preparing inspection equipment, interpreting test results and reporting on the condition of components. Whether they're checking aircraft parts for micro-cracks or evaluating welds on pipelines, NDT technicians play a key role in quality assurance and operational safety.

Why Choose a Career in Non-Destructive Testing?

Choosing a path in non-destructive testing careers means entering a field where your skills directly impact public safety and performance standards. NDT technicians are in demand across industries that require ongoing maintenance and high standards of structural integrity — like aerospace, oil and gas, nuclear energy, rail and even amusement park rides.

For example, before a roller coaster is cleared to run, inspectors use NDT methods to make sure every piece is safe. They might apply a special dye (called dye penetrant testing) to welded joints on the track to reveal any tiny cracks. In other areas, they may use sound waves (ultrasonic testing) to check inside steel beams for hidden flaws without cutting anything open. These tests help catch problems early and keep riders safe, all without damaging the ride itself.

A career in NDT can offer:

• Opportunities for travel and work in high-tech industries.
• A technical, hands-on role without general education coursework.
• Advancement potential through certification and experience.
• The ability to work independently or as part of an engineering or safety team.

How To Become an NDT Technician

Wondering how to become an NDT technician? While some employers offer on-the-job training, most roles require formal instruction in testing methods and safety protocols. Gaining foundational knowledge through a structured training program — such as one offered by Universal Technical Institute (UTI) — can help students build the technical skills needed for entry-level positions.¹

In addition to technical education, many NDT technicians go on to pursue certification (levels I, II or III) through industry-recognized organizations like ASNT (American Society for Nondestructive Testing).

Steps to become an NDT technician typically include:

• Completing an NDT training program.
• Gaining field experience.
• Earning industry certifications to expand eligibility for advanced career roles.

NDT Training at Universal Technical Institute

If you're searching for NDT training programs near me, we offer a focused curriculum designed to equip graduates with the hands-on skills and industry knowledge employers are looking for in entry-level technicians. Taught by experienced professionals, UTI’s nine-month Advanced Non-Destructive Testing Technician training program covers essential methods such as visual testing, ultrasonic testing, radiographic interpretation and more.

This hands-on training program emphasizes:

• Real-world tools and inspection equipment.
• Practice with industry-aligned safety procedures.
• Preparation for certification exams.
• Career services support and employer connections.

Our classroom training hours also meet the requirements of ANSI/ASNT CP-189 (official rulebook establishing national standard) and ASNT SNT-TC-1A (recommended guide offering suggestions on NDT training and certification) standards, which means that the training students receive is held to nationally recognized standards in the industry. This is important because NDT technicians are usually required to be certified, since earning those credentials helps ensure they know what they’re doing.