Non-Destructive Examination (NDE) Engineer (Entry level to Early Career)

Non-Destructive Examination (NDE) Engineer

Location: Illinois

A leading U.S. manufacturer of highly engineered forged components is seeking a Non-Destructive Examination (NDE) Engineer to support and advance inspection technologies across multiple manufacturing operations. This is an outstanding opportunity for an early-career engineer who wants to combine engineering, manufacturing, quality, and advanced NDT technologies in a hands-on environment.

This role partners closely with Quality, Metallurgy, Process Engineering, Production, and certified NDT personnel to improve inspection processes, troubleshoot manufacturing challenges, introduce new technologies, and drive continuous improvement initiatives.

Responsibilities

Support and improve non-destructive testing processes including Ultrasonic Testing (UT), Magnetic Particle (MT), Liquid Penetrant (PT), and Radiographic Testing (RT)

Develop and maintain NDT procedures, work instructions, inspection techniques, and ultrasonic reference standards

Troubleshoot inspection and manufacturing issues using structured problem-solving methodologies such as 8D, Root Cause Analysis, Fishbone, and Lean principles

Evaluate and implement new inspection technologies including Phased Array UT, immersion systems, automation, and robotics

Design solutions to improve safety and ergonomics within NDT operations

Support equipment calibration, verification, documentation, and inspection readiness

Review customer specifications, engineering drawings, and acceptance criteria to determine appropriate inspection methods

Analyze inspection data and nonconformance trends to identify opportunities for process improvements

Provide technical support to Quality, Production, Engineering, Metallurgy, and NDT personnel

Assist with training and mentoring NDT technicians while supporting internal and customer quality audits

Participate in Lean, Six Sigma, 6S, and continuous improvement initiatives throughout the organization

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or Electrical Engineering

0–5 years of engineering experience through internships, co-ops, research, senior design projects, or manufacturing

Understanding of NDT methods including UT, MT, and PT

Ability to qualify under ASNT SNT-TC-1A or ISO 9712 certification programs

Experience interpreting engineering drawings, specifications, and technical documentation

CAD experience (SolidWorks preferred)

Strong analytical, communication, and technical writing skills

Proficiency with Microsoft Office and manufacturing or quality systems

Comfortable working in both engineering offices and manufacturing environments

Preferred Experience

Hands-on experience with ultrasonic, magnetic particle, penetrant, or radiographic inspection

ASNT Level II certification (or progress toward certification)

Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or Kaizen experience

Metals, forging, steel, or heavy manufacturing experience

Experience with ERP/MRP systems, inspection reporting software, or quality management systems

Exposure to robotics or automated inspection systems

Additional Information

Manufacturing and shop floor environment

Up to 15% travel between facilities

Opportunity to work with advanced inspection technologies in a world-class metals manufacturing operation

Excellent opportunity for an engineer looking to build expertise in NDT, manufacturing engineering, and quality systems