NDT Working Method L3

Position Summary

The Method Level III (RT/DDA) is the technical authority for all radiographic testing activities utilizing film and/or Digital Detector Array (DDA) technology. This position is responsible for developing, implementing, maintaining, and improving RT inspection methods while ensuring compliance with customer specifications, industry standards, regulatory requirements, and the company's quality management system.

The Method Level III provides technical leadership, certifies NDT personnel, develops inspection techniques, resolves technical issues, supports audits, and serves as the primary technical resource for RT/DDA operations.

Essential Duties and ResponsibilitiesTechnical Leadership

• Serve as the technical authority for Radiographic Testing (RT) utilizing Digital Detector Array (DDA) systems.

• Develop, qualify, validate, and approve RT techniques and written instructions.

• Interpret and apply customer specifications, engineering drawings, and applicable codes and standards.

• Evaluate new inspection methods, equipment, and software.

• Provide technical guidance to Level I and Level II personnel.

Personnel Qualification and Certification

• Administer the company's NDT certification program in accordance with NAS 410 or customer requirements.

• Train, mentor, and examine Level I and Level II personnel.

• Conduct practical, specific, and general examinations as required.

• Maintain certification records and training documentation.

Quality Assurance

• Ensure compliance with:

  • NAS 410

  • ASTM standards

  • Customer specifications

  • Internal procedures

  • FAA and aerospace quality requirements (when applicable)

• Review inspection results for technical accuracy.

• Investigate nonconformances and recommend corrective actions.

• Participate in internal, customer, and third-party audits.

Equipment and Process Control

• Approve RT equipment for production use.

• Verify system performance and image quality.

• Review and approve calibration and maintenance requirements.

• Validate software revisions affecting inspection capability.

• Monitor image quality indicators (IQIs), detector performance, and exposure techniques.

Documentation

• Prepare and revise:

  • Written techniques

  • Standard operating procedures

  • Work instructions

  • Inspection reports

  • Technical justifications

  • Training materials

Continuous Improvement

• Identify opportunities to improve inspection efficiency and quality.

• Support implementation of new technologies and automation.

• Participate in Lean, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement initiatives.

QualificationsEducation

• High school diploma or GED required.

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, or related technical field preferred.

Experience

• Certified RT Level III in accordance with NAS 410 or equivalent.

• Minimum 5–10 years of aerospace or industrial radiographic inspection experience.

• Demonstrated experience with Digital Detector Array (DDA) systems.

• Experience developing RT techniques and interpreting aerospace specifications.

• Previous experience training and certifying NDT personnel preferred.

Required Knowledge

Strong working knowledge of:

• Digital Radiography (DDA)

• Computed Radiography (preferred)

• Image quality evaluation

• Radiation safety

• Geometric unsharpness

• Exposure techniques

• Defect characterization

• Aerospace manufacturing processes

• Castings, welds, composites, and machined components

• Digital image processing software

• Customer-specific requirements

Certifications

Required:

• NAS 410 RT Level III (or ability to obtain)

• Current radiation safety training

Preferred:

• ASNT NDT Level III

• Additional Level III certifications (FPI, UT, ET, MT, etc.)

Skills

• Excellent technical writing

• Strong problem-solving ability

• Leadership and mentoring skills

• Excellent communication

• Ability to interpret complex engineering drawings and specifications

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and NDT software systems

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, and lift up to 35 pounds.

• Ability to distinguish image quality and fine indications on digital displays.

• Work in manufacturing and controlled radiation environments.

• Use required personal protective equipment.

Working Conditions

• Manufacturing environment with exposure to radiation-controlled areas.

• Occasional overtime or weekend support during production demands.

• May require occasional travel for customer meetings, audits, or training.

Primary Responsibilities

• Maintain RT/DDA technical compliance.

• Certify and mentor NDT personnel.

• Approve inspection techniques and procedures.

• Ensure customer and regulatory compliance.

• Support production through technical expertise.

• Drive continuous improvement of RT/DDA processes.