Engineering and manufacturing

Non-Destructive testing ndt operator

Inspecting components, materials, welds and other items within manufacturing processes.

Summary

Drawing heavily upon the experience and knowledge of the industry sector product technology, an NDT Operator will usually work as part of an inspection team or department performing NDT inspections to pre-defined NDT Work Instructions and reporting his/her findings through the employer’s Quality Management System processes. Their findings will be subject to review and authorisation by suitably qualified and experienced supervisory staff, such as, NDT Engineering Technicians, to ensure that the results are accurate and reliable. The skillset and depth of proficiency retained by the NDT Operator, whilst singularly focused on one NDT method, are nevertheless transferable across all engineering sectors. This apprenticeship will provide resources to meet future engineering requirements, such as, nuclear new build, power generation, transport, oil and gas and defence.

Typical job titles include

Knowledge, skills and behaviours (KSBs)

K1:

Health & safety knowledge pertinent to the specific requirements of the relevant NDT method;

K2:

In depth knowledge of one NDT method to include its capabilities and limitations. An awareness of other NDT methods of inspection and their general capabilities / limitations

K3:

The knowledge required for the assessment of defects against acceptance/rejection criteria (required by standards)

K4:

Relevant sector-specific technology, quality aspects and working practices, such as inductions and confidentiality

K5:

Material and product technology associated with the specific industry sector

K6:

Develop an understanding of the consequences of failure and the risk to life.

Technical Educational Products

ST0358
ST0358: Non-destructive testing (NDT) operator (Level 2) Approved for delivery
Reference:
OCC0358
Status:
Approved occupation imageApproved occupation
Average (median) salary:
£30,746 per year
SOC 2020 code:
8143 Routine inspectors and testers
  • SOC 2020 sub unit groups:
    • 8143/00 Routine inspectors and testers
S1:

Demonstrate health & safety competencies pertinent to the relevant NDT method such as working at heights, in confined spaces and in restricted zones

S2:

Carry out inspections using one NDT method, which would include: revealing defects present on the external surface of the test item / component using minimum levels of interpretation, usually by visual assessment only referring the inspection results to more skilled or qualified personnel to continue with the inspection process, assessment and interpretation Safe operation of the equipment within its capabilities and limitations Working effectively within the limitations of standard tests and measurements relevant to their field of activity Performing NDT inspections in accordance with written NDT Work Instructions Escalating concerns over frequency of type defects to his/her supervisor, in addition to confirming results and accurately recording the findings Clearly marking defective areas for other follow-up validation by supervisory staff, such as NDT Engineering Technicians Preparing and submit clear and concise NDT inspection reports detailing the inspection findings Reading technical drawings to assist in the inspection process

S3:

Work under technical supervision and to report regularly on progress

S4:

Ask the supervisor for advice and guidance where appropriate

S5:

Demonstrate a disciplined approach relating to industry standard operations and processes

S6:

Exhibit environmental awareness and undertake safe working practices for self and others

S7:

Have good practical ability, including hand/eye coordination, in order to apply NDT

S8:

Achieve good time management and a disciplined approach

Technical Educational Products

ST0358 image
ST0358: Non-destructive testing (NDT) operator (Level 2) Approved for delivery
Reference:
OCC0358
Status:
Approved occupation imageApproved occupation
Average (median) salary:
£30,746 per year
SOC 2020 code:
8143 Routine inspectors and testers
  • SOC 2020 sub unit groups:
    • 8143/00 Routine inspectors and testers
B1:

Communication – to communicate effectively with senior NDT staff, such as NDT Engineering Technicians in order to facilitate timely accurate completion of the inspection programs

B2:

Teamwork – to work effectively in a team and to support others where appropriate

B3:

Delivery – to consistently see things through to timely completion

B4:

Common sense – to consistently apply knowledge and experience with balance

B5:

Influence – have a positive impact without relying on others

B6:

Ethics – to act with maturity, honesty, integrity and responsibility.

Technical Educational Products

ST0358 image
ST0358: Non-destructive testing (NDT) operator (Level 2) Approved for delivery
Reference:
OCC0358
Status:
Approved occupation imageApproved occupation
Average (median) salary:
£30,746 per year
SOC 2020 code:
8143 Routine inspectors and testers
  • SOC 2020 sub unit groups:
    • 8143/00 Routine inspectors and testers