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Nondestructive Inspection Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

NDT Level II Inspector, Capabilities

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$40 - $55/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Perform nondestructive testing using MT, PT, UT, RT, and VT methods on ferrous and non-ferrous materials in accordance with approved procedures. * Set up, calibrate, and operate inspection equipment ...

NDT Inspector II

El Cajon, CA · On-site

$33 - $45/hr

Knowledge of visual and dimensional inspection methods. * Knowledge of and ability to use nondestructive testing methods including ultrasonic immersion testing techniques. * Knowledge of geometric ...

Structural Steel and/or nondestructive testing services: ASNT Level II All * Successful completion of related internal safety certifications. * Performs testing, observation, and inspection as ...

NDT Level II Inspector, Capabilities

Los Angeles, CA

$40 - $55/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Perform nondestructive testing using MT, PT, UT, RT, and VT methods on ferrous and non-ferrous materials in accordance with approved procedures. * Set up, calibrate, and operate inspection equipment ...

NDT Level III Inspector, Capabilities

Torrance, CA · On-site

$40 - $60/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Perform nondestructive testing using RT, UT, PT, MT, or VT methods on ferrous and non-ferrous materials in accordance with approved procedures. * Set up, calibrate, and operate inspection equipment ...

Materials Special Inspector

Colton, CA · On-site

$24.50 - $35.50/hr

Perform field and/or laboratory testing, observation, and inspection of construction materials (e.g ... American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) Level II certification in more than one of the ...

Structural Steel and/or nondestructive testing services: ASNT Level II All * Successful completion of related internal safety cer * Performs testing, observation, and inspection as directed in ...

Materials Special Inspector

Gardena, CA · On-site

$26.70 - $37.50/hr

Perform field and/or laboratory testing, observation, and inspection of construction materials (e.g ... American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) Level II certification in more than one of the ...

Showing results 21-40

Nondestructive Inspection information

See California salary details

$30.1K

$74.3K

$130.8K

How much do nondestructive inspection jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for nondestructive inspection in California is $74,292.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,800.00 and $92,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a nondestructive inspection?

A Nondestructive Inspection (NDI) job involves evaluating materials, structures, or components for flaws without causing damage. Inspectors use techniques like ultrasound, radiography, eddy current, and magnetic particle testing to detect cracks, corrosion, or other defects. These inspections are critical in industries such as aerospace, manufacturing, and construction to ensure safety and reliability. NDI technicians interpret test results, document findings, and recommend necessary actions. This role requires strong attention to detail, technical proficiency, and adherence to industry standards.

What does a nondestructive inspection do?

In a Nondestructive Inspection position, your daily responsibilities often include preparing and calibrating inspection equipment, performing various tests on materials or components, interpreting test results, and documenting findings according to industry standards. You may consistently face challenges such as evaluating complex or irregular parts, adhering to safety protocols, and meeting tight deadlines while ensuring accuracy. The role sometimes requires working in confined spaces or at heights, depending on the industry and specific inspection tasks. Regular collaboration with engineers, quality assurance teams, and production staff is essential to address findings and maintain compliance. Successfully managing these tasks helps protect product integrity and contributes to overall operational safety and efficiency.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in nondestructive inspection?

To thrive in Nondestructive Inspection (NDI), you need a strong understanding of physics, mathematics, material sciences, and industry standards, often supported by relevant certifications such as ASNT Level I, II, or III. Familiarity with technical tools and systems like ultrasonic, radiographic, magnetic particle, and eddy current testing equipment is essential. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are key soft skills for interpreting data and collaborating with engineering teams. These abilities are crucial for ensuring the integrity and safety of structures and components without causing damage.

How to become a nondestructive inspection?

To become a nondestructive inspection (NDI) technician, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training or certification in nondestructive testing methods such as ultrasonic, radiographic, magnetic particle, or dye penetrant testing. Certification from organizations like the American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) is often required and can be obtained through training programs and passing exams. Gaining hands-on experience and developing skills in inspection tools and safety procedures are also important for career advancement in this field.

Is nondestructive inspection a good career?

Nondestructive inspection (NDI) is a stable career that involves evaluating materials and structures without causing damage, often requiring certifications such as ASNT. It offers opportunities in industries like aerospace, manufacturing, and energy, with a focus on safety and quality control. The job typically involves technical skills, attention to detail, and working in various environments, making it a reliable career choice for those interested in technical inspection roles.

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Nondestructive Inspection job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,292 per year, or $35.7 per hour.

NDE Level II Inspector, Certified Welding Inspector (Starship Mechanisms) - 1st Shift

SpaceX

Hawthorne, CA • On-site

$50 - $60/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago


SpaceX rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 147 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

NDE LEVEL II INSPECTOR (STARSHIP MECHANISMS) - 1ST SHIFT

The NDE operations organization at SpaceX is an inclusive, interdisciplinary team committed to providing high-quality inspections of flight components and production assemblies. The breadth of exposure as an NDE Level II Inspector is immense, as the organization is responsible for a large diversity of inspection types across the Starship program.

RESPONSIBILITIES: 

  • Perform surface NDE inspections, including but not limited to VT and PT
  • Interpret, evaluate, communicate, and report findings to production and engineering teams
  • Interpret and review engineering drawings as required
  • Support the development of NDE inspection techniques for complex geometries
  • Support research and development of system qualification and certification for critical processes
  • Assist in training and developing others on the team

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

  • High school diploma or equivalency certificate
  • Nondestructive Evaluation Level II certification in line with ASNT TC-1A, NAS-410, or DOD guidance in one of the following methods: eddy current (ET), radiography (RT), digital radiography (DR), dye penetrant (PT), computed radiography (CR), phase array (PAUT), ultrasonic (UT), or ultrasonic shear wave (UTSW); OR 3+ years of inspection experience in an aerospace, aviation, military or a precision machined parts manufacturing environment OR completion of a certified NDE/NDT school or course

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

  • Additional nondestructive evaluation Level II certifications in line with ASNT TC-1A, NAS-410, or DOD guidance
  • Experience using one of the listed NDE methods for the inspection of weldments, forgings, or castings
  • 2+ years of experience as a level II nondestructive evaluation/testing inspector
  • Experience performing NDE testing within the aerospace industry
  • American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Welding Inspector (CWI)
  • Basic computer skills and familiarity with Microsoft applications
  • Experience inspecting advanced materials such as high strength aluminum alloys, precipitation hardened steels, Inconel, Monel, titanium, and Maraging steel (super alloys)
  • Knowledge of UTEX InspectionWare software or equivalent
  • Knowledge of NASA 5009 standards
  • Knowledge of AMS, AWS/ASME, ASTM, standards
  • Experience with problem solving tools and techniques including: practical problem solving (PPS), and eight disciplines (8D)
  • Basic understanding of Lean principles: 5S, Kaizen, continuous improvement initiative

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Shift times:
    • 1st shift (Monday - Friday): 5:00 AM - 3:30 PM
  • Must be willing to work overtime and weekends as needed
  • Must be able to lift a minimum of 25 lbs. unassisted
  • Must be able to stoop, bend, crawl and maneuver in tight spaces. Must be able to stand for extended periods of time - 8 hours min

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

Pay range:    
Level 1: $25.00 - $35.00/hour    
Level 2: $30.00 - $40.00/hour    
Level 3: $35.00 - $45.00/hour
Level 4: $43.00 - $54.00/hour
Level 5: $50.00 - $60.00/hour 

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year.


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About SpaceX

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Aerospace product and parts manufacturing, data services, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and satellite telecommunications

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hawthorne, CA, US