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