Non-Destructive Testing Specialists
Non-destructive testing specialists use specialized equipment like x-rays, ultrasound, and fiber optics to inspect structures, vehicles, and vessels for safety defects without causing damage. They work in manufacturing plants, aerospace facilities, construction sites, refineries, and maintenance shops, identifying structural problems before they become hazardous.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against non-destructive testing specialists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves operating testing equipment on assigned components, documenting findings through detailed inspection reports, and interpreting results against safety standards. Specialists might spend time at industrial facilities calibrating ultrasonic machines, reviewing x-ray images for cracks or corrosion, or traveling to job sites to conduct on-location inspections. Work requires precision, attention to equipment specifications, and careful record-keeping.
Who this work suits
Holland code RIC. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You likely enjoy solving concrete problems by gathering evidence systematically—the investigative side appeals to you. You're someone who prefers hands-on work with equipment and clear, measurable outcomes; the realistic interest means you value practical skills and tangible results over abstract thinking.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most people in this occupation hold a high school diploma.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maine | $92,100 | $107,060 | $120,430 | 810 |
| New Mexico | $98,520 | $101,750 | $119,350 | 1,390 |
| Maryland | $77,770 | $99,970 | $122,870 | 2,630 |
| Washington | $79,000 | $99,720 | $116,210 | 2,310 |
| Virginia | $79,620 | $98,410 | $110,930 | 3,720 |
| Rhode Island | $77,510 | $94,570 | $108,230 | 380 |
| Nevada | $78,870 | $93,670 | $107,090 | 590 |
| Hawaii | $69,860 | $90,040 | $107,930 | 410 |
| Alaska | $62,620 | $89,810 | $106,870 | 380 |
| Indiana | $76,060 | $88,880 | $107,720 | 480 |
| New Jersey | $64,760 | $87,450 | $113,550 | 880 |
| Oklahoma | $64,730 | $81,330 | $96,100 | 870 |
All 49 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Fiber Optic Specialist/Testing (CFOS/T) — The Fiber Optic Association Inc.
- SACA Certified Industry 4.0 Production Systems Specialist I — Smart Automation Certification Alliance
- ASNT NDT Level II Certification - Liquid Penetrant Testing (PT) (ACCP-PT) — American Society for Nondestructive Testing
- ASNT Central Certification Program Level II - Radiographic Testing (ACCP-RT) — American Society for Nondestructive Testing
- ASNT Nondestructive Testing Level III - Basic — American Society for Nondestructive Testing
- ASNT NDT Level III Certification - Electromagnetic Testing — American Society for Nondestructive Testing
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against non-destructive testing specialists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 17-3029.01 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.