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Non Destructive Testing Trainee Jobs in Downey, CA

Embee / All Metals Processing

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Non-Destructive Testing Technician Level 2

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

The primary responsibility of the Certified Non-Destruct Test Technician Level 2 is to test and inspect parts and assemblies for defects using automated and manual methods and techniques including ...

RimePro Inc

NDT Inspector

Cudahy, CA

$32 - $40/hr

Position Overview The NDT Inspector is responsible for performing non-destructive testing (NDT) inspections on forged, machined, and manufactured components to ensure compliance with customer ...

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Non Destructive Testing Trainee information

What is a non destructive testing trainee?

Non Destructive Testing (NDT) Trainees are entry-level professionals who are learning to inspect and evaluate materials, components, or assemblies for defects without causing any damage to them. They work under the supervision of certified NDT technicians or engineers and receive practical and theoretical training in various NDT methods such as ultrasonic, radiographic, magnetic particle, and dye penetrant testing. Their main goal is to develop the skills and knowledge required to safely and accurately perform NDT procedures, eventually working towards certification in specific NDT methods.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a non destructive testing trainee?

To thrive as a Non Destructive Testing Trainee, you need a basic understanding of physics and engineering principles, along with a high school diploma or technical certification in NDT methods. Familiarity with inspection tools such as ultrasonic, radiographic, or magnetic particle testing equipment, and relevant certifications like ASNT Level I or II, are typically required. Keen attention to detail, strong analytical thinking, and effective communication help trainees accurately interpret results and work safely within a team. These skills ensure the reliability of inspections, compliance with safety standards, and the integrity of critical infrastructure.

What are the typical career progression opportunities for a non destructive testing trainee?

As a Non Destructive Testing (NDT) Trainee, you can expect to start by working under the supervision of certified NDT technicians while gaining hands-on experience in various testing methods such as ultrasonic, radiographic, or magnetic particle testing. With additional training, certifications, and on-the-job experience, you can progress to higher certification levels (e.g., Level II or Level III technician), take on roles with greater responsibility, and specialize in advanced techniques or industry sectors. Career advancement may also include moving into supervisory, quality assurance, or inspection management positions, and some professionals transition into training or consulting roles as they gain expertise. Continuous learning and certification are key to long-term advancement in this field.

What is the difference between Non Destructive Testing Trainee vs NDT Inspector?

AspectNon Destructive Testing TraineeNDT Inspector
CertificationsBasic NDT certifications (e.g., Level I)Advanced certifications (e.g., Level II or III)
Work EnvironmentTraining sites, laboratories, on-the-job learningField inspections, plant facilities, industrial sites
Job RoleLearning and assisting in NDT methodsPerforming NDT tests independently
Experience LevelEntry-level, training-focusedExperienced, certified professional

The Non Destructive Testing Trainee is an entry-level role focused on learning NDT techniques, while the NDT Inspector is a certified professional responsible for conducting inspections independently. Trainees gain foundational skills, whereas inspectors apply their expertise in real-world scenarios.

How to get into non destructive testing with no experience?

To become a Non Destructive Testing Trainee, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent; relevant certifications such as ASNT Level I or II can improve prospects. Gaining basic knowledge of NDT methods like ultrasonic, radiographic, or magnetic particle testing through online courses or technical schools is beneficial. Entry-level positions often require a willingness to learn, attention to detail, and adherence to safety protocols in industrial environments.

Is it hard to get a non destructive testing trainee job?

Securing a non-destructive testing trainee position can be competitive, as it often requires relevant technical knowledge, certifications, or training in methods like ultrasonic or radiographic testing. Candidates with a background in engineering or related fields and a willingness to learn on the job typically have better chances of obtaining such roles.

Is non destructive testing in high demand?

Non-destructive testing (NDT) professionals, including trainees, are in high demand across industries such as manufacturing, aerospace, and energy due to the need for quality assurance and safety inspections. The industry values skills in techniques like ultrasonic, radiographic, and magnetic particle testing, often requiring certifications like ASNT. Job opportunities are expected to grow as safety standards and inspection requirements increase globally.

Is non destructive testing trainee training worth it?

Non destructive testing (NDT) trainee training provides foundational knowledge of inspection techniques such as ultrasonic, radiographic, and magnetic particle testing, which are essential skills in quality assurance and safety inspections. Completing this training can improve job prospects, lead to certification opportunities, and increase earning potential in industries like manufacturing, aerospace, and energy. The training is generally considered valuable for those seeking a career in NDT and related fields.

What job categories do people searching Non Destructive Testing Trainee jobs in Downey, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Non Destructive Testing Trainee jobs in Downey, CA are:

What cities near Downey, CA are hiring for Non Destructive Testing Trainee jobs?

Cities near Downey, CA with the most Non Destructive Testing Trainee job openings:

Non Destructive Testing Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Non Destructive Testing Trainee job openings in Downey, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.

Engineering Technician I

La Verne, CA • On-site

The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California
Utilities • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about The Metropolitan Water District of Southern Californiaexternal

$43.37 - $57.05/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

At the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, we deliver reliable water to a region with 19 million people—and to accomplish this, we rely on a team of Talented Employees: innovators, problem-solvers, and collaborators who make it all possible.

This recruitment may result in an Eligibility List*.

We are looking for an Engineering Technician I (Corrosion) to join our Corrosion Engineering Team within the Infrastructure Reliability Unit. In this entry-level role, you will learn and assist with performing infrastructure reliability assessments. Further, you will utilize destructive and non-destructive testing equipment and techniques for testing, evaluating, and analyzing infrastructure, materials performance, and metallurgy; and perform construction materials performance testing. 

What You’ll Do:

  • Infrastructure Reliability Assessments: Perform shop and field assessments on infrastructure such as pressure vessels, chemical tanks, pipelines, pumps, and water treatment equipment.
  • Non-Destructive Testing: Utilize non-destructive testing equipment and methods to inspect new and existing infrastructure for damage, corrosion, or hidden flaws.
  • Destructive Testing: Utilize destructive testing equipment and methods to determine materials properties.
  • Construction Materials Performance Testing: Perform testing of metals, polymers, elastomers, and coatings to verify performance characteristics.

This opening for the Engineering Technician I (Corrosion) is in the Infrastructure Unit of our Infrastructure Reliability Section at our F E Weymouth Filtration Plant in La Verne, CA.

 
Schedule 4/10: Monday - Thursday 6:00am - 4:30pm; every Friday off.

This job announcement has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work being performed by employees in this classification / job.

To view the full job description click here: Engineering Technician I

EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience: High school diploma or general education development test (GED), and
either two years of accredited college or university in engineering related coursework or two years of
relevant experience.

Relevant Experience is defined as: Testing, laboratory experience, AND/OR infrastructure condition assessment, non-destructive testing, ASTM testing, corrosion science, AND/OR construction inspection.

CERTIFICATIONS, LICENSES, AND REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS
License(s): Valid California Class C Driver’s License or equivalent (required at time of application) that allows you to drive during your employment.

CLOSING
Benefits:
• Competitive compensation
• Excellent medical, dental, life, vision plans.
• Deferred compensation in the form of a 401(k) plan (with matching contribution) and a 457 plan.
• Retirement benefits under the California Public Employees' Retirement System
• Tuition reimbursement
• Training and advancement opportunities
• Excellent working environment

For more information on MWD benefits, please use the following link: Benefits Regular FT PT Employees (Represented)

ABOUT MWD

The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California is a state-established cooperative that, along with its 26 cities and retail suppliers, provides water for 19 million people in six counties. The district imports water from the Colorado River and Northern California to supplement local supplies, and helps its members to develop increased water conservation, recycling, storage and other resource-management programs.

The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. Qualified individuals with disabilities, who need a reasonable accommodation during the application or selection process, please call (213) 217-7738 or email: jobs@mwdh2o.com.

Metropolitan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected characteristic(s).

 

Application Filing Period: Closes at 4:30 pm PT on the date stated in the job announcement. However, it may close prior to the filing end date if sufficient applications have been received. If sufficient applications have not been received, then the filing period end date may be extended.

 

Eligibility List*: An eligibility list is a list of qualified candidates created when a job posting states that one will be established.

Candidates who meet the minimum qualifications listed in the original posting and successfully pass all stages of the recruitment process—but are not selected for the initial vacancy—may be placed on this list for future openings.

The list may be used to invite candidates to participate in a selection interview for a future vacancy in the same classification / title (if there is one). The duration of the list depends on the applicable bargaining unit.

 

Qualifying Experience: Your resume must at a minimum include the month and year you began and ended employment, name of the organization, your title, and a brief description of your experience. If your employment was part-time, make sure you identify it on your resume next to the month/year.

Sponsorship: Applicants for employment with The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California must have work authorization that does not now or in the future require sponsorship of a visa for employment authorization in the United States (i.e., H1-B or other employment-based immigration case).

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