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Magnetic Particle Inspection Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Manufacturing Engineer

Torrance, CA · On-site

$76K - $98K/yr

Magnetic particle inspection, Nital Etch Inspection, Hardness Testing. * Aerospace Painting processes Strong knowledge of: * 3D Modeling best practices and principles * GDT, Engineering Drawings ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Torrance, CA · On-site

$76K - $98K/yr

Magnetic particle inspection, Nital Etch Inspection, Hardness Testing. * Aerospace Painting processes Strong knowledge of: * 3D Modeling best practices and principles * GDT, Engineering Drawings ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Torrance, CA · On-site

$90K - $115K/yr

Magnetic particle inspection, Nital Etch Inspection, Hardness Testing. * Aerospace Painting processes Strong knowledge of: * 3D Modeling best practices and principles * GDT, Engineering Drawings ...

Senior Manufacturing Engineer

Torrance, CA · On-site

$95K - $130K/yr

Magnetic particle inspection, Nital Etch Inspection, Hardness Testing. * Aerospace Painting processes Strong knowledge of: * 3D Modeling best practices and principles * GDT, Engineering Drawings ...

QA Inspector (Quality Assurance)

CA · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

Visual/Floor inspection will include inspecting parts for cracks and burns in magnetic particle and Nital etch lines. Windows Operating system and Windows Office proficiency is required. Able to read ...

NDT Inspector

Bell Gardens, CA · On-site

$32 - $40/hr

... Magnetic Particle Testing (MT), Liquid Penetrant Testing (PT), Ultrasonic Testing (UT), Visual Testing (VT), and other applicable inspection methods based on certification level. * Conduct ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Torrance, CA · On-site

$90K - $115K/yr

Magnetic particle inspection, Nital Etch Inspection, Hardness Testing. * Aerospace Painting processes Strong knowledge of: * 3D Modeling best practices and principles * GDT, Engineering Drawings ...

Showing results 21-40

Magnetic Particle Inspection information

See California salary details

$10

$19

$30

How much do magnetic particle inspection jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for magnetic particle inspection in California is $19.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $22.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is magnetic particle inspection?

Magnetic Particle Inspection (MPI) is a non-destructive testing method used to detect surface and slightly subsurface discontinuities in ferromagnetic materials such as iron, nickel, and cobalt. The process involves magnetizing the material and then applying ferrous particles over the surface. If there are any cracks or defects, the magnetic field is disrupted, causing the particles to gather at the site of the flaw, making it visible under proper lighting conditions. MPI is widely used in industries like aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing for quality control and safety assurance.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a magnetic particle inspection technician?

To thrive as a Magnetic Particle Inspection (MPI) Technician, you need a solid understanding of non-destructive testing principles, attention to detail, and typically a certification such as ASNT Level I or II. Familiarity with MPI equipment, UV lights, yokes, and documentation systems is crucial for accurate inspections. Strong observational skills, problem-solving ability, and effective communication help technicians identify defects and report findings clearly. These skills and qualifications are important to ensure the safety, integrity, and compliance of materials and components in industries like aerospace, automotive, and construction.

What are the most common challenges faced by magnetic particle inspection technicians on the job?

MPI technicians often encounter challenges such as interpreting ambiguous indications, working in confined or awkward spaces, and ensuring proper surface preparation to avoid false readings. Adhering to strict safety protocols when handling magnetic fields and chemicals is essential. Additionally, effective communication with other inspectors and engineers is crucial for accurately documenting and reporting findings, which directly impacts the integrity and safety of inspected components.

What is the difference between Magnetic Particle Inspection vs Ultrasonic Testing?

AspectMagnetic Particle InspectionUltrasonic Testing
CredentialsLevel I/II certifications in magnetic particle testingLevel I/II certifications in ultrasonic testing
Work EnvironmentMagnetic fields, surface and near-surface flaw detectionSound wave transmission, internal flaw detection
Industry UsageManufacturing, aerospace, oil & gasManufacturing, aerospace, oil & gas

Both Magnetic Particle Inspection and Ultrasonic Testing are non-destructive testing methods used to detect flaws in materials. Magnetic Particle Inspection is ideal for surface and near-surface flaws in ferromagnetic materials, while Ultrasonic Testing can detect internal flaws in a wider range of materials. The choice depends on the specific inspection needs and material type.

How much does a magnetic particle inspector make?

A magnetic particle inspector typically earns between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Skilled inspectors with certifications like ASNT Level II or III may earn higher wages, especially in industrial or aerospace settings.

Is magnetic particle inspection a good career?

Magnetic particle inspection is a specialized nondestructive testing method used to detect surface and near-surface flaws in ferromagnetic materials. It offers steady employment opportunities in industries such as manufacturing, aerospace, and power generation, often requiring certification and knowledge of magnetic fields and inspection tools. The career can be stable and rewarding for those with technical skills and attention to detail.

What are popular job titles related to Magnetic Particle Inspection jobs in California?

For Magnetic Particle Inspection jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Magnetic Particle Inspection jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Magnetic Particle Inspection jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Magnetic Particle Inspection job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,701 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

QA Inspector (Quality Assurance)

RBC Transport Dynamics

Compton, CA

$19 - $21/hr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Perform dimensional and visual inspection on various precision components using mechanical and electronic gauging.

Visual/Floor inspection will include inspecting parts for cracks and burns in magnetic particle and Nital etch lines.

Windows Operating system and Windows Office proficiency is required.

Able to read and understand blueprints. Demonstrated ability to work well at all levels of the organization, Must be results-oriented, motivated and deal with changing priorities, Must be able to stand, walk for long periods and lift heavy gages, ANSI Standard requirements. 

This is a 2nd shift position-- some weekends required. 

RBC Bearings offers a competitive benefits package.  Interested candidates may send resumes to: rdelatorre@rbcbearings.com

Come in person to Industrial Tectonics Bearings at 18301 S. Santa Fe Ave. Rancho Dominguez, CA 90221 and apply Monday-Friday 8:00am-4:00pm.  You may also fax your resume to (310) 537-2647 or call Human Resources at 310-537-3750 x1616. 

We are a subsidiary of RBC Bearings, Inc. (ROLL).  EEO Employer/AA/M/F/Vet/Disabled

RBC Bearings is an Equal Opportunity Employer

MIN/MAX: $19 to $21
 
Please note that the salary range information is only applicable to California. This range is the company's good faith and reasonable estimate of the compensation for this role based on the position's responsibilities, qualifications, experience, and other relevant factors. Actual
compensation may vary depending on the selected candidate's specific experience, education, skills, and other relevant factors.

Equal Opportunity Employer:
RBC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.
This role is subject to compliance with the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and the Export Administration Regulations (EAR), which requires the incumbent to be either a US citizen, lawful permanent resident [“green card” holders] or have refugee or asylee status.