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Penetrant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Carley Foundry Inc

NDT Penetrant Technician

Blaine, MN · On-site

$23 - $29/hr

NDT Penetrant TechnicianDo you like a fast-paced work environment, where the equipment is updating continuously! We are now hiring for our NDT Technician position. We offer TOP PAY and this ...

Carley Foundry Inc

NDT Penetrant Technician

Blaine, MN · On-site

$23 - $29/hr

NDT Penetrant TechnicianDo you like a fast-paced work environment, where the equipment is updating continuously! We are now hiring for our NDT Technician position. We offer TOP PAY and this ...

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Penetrant information

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$14

$29

$48

How much do penetrant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for penetrant in the United States is $29.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.08 and $34.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a penetrant?

Penetrants, often referred to as liquid penetrant inspectors or technicians, are professionals who perform nondestructive testing (NDT) to detect surface-breaking defects in materials and components. They use liquid penetrant inspection methods to identify cracks, porosity, or other flaws that may not be visible to the naked eye. This process is widely used in industries like aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing to ensure the safety and integrity of critical parts. Penetrants follow strict procedures for cleaning, applying penetrant, developing, and inspecting the parts. Their work is essential for quality control and compliance with industry safety standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a penetrant inspector?

To thrive as a Penetrant Inspector, you need knowledge of non-destructive testing (NDT) methods, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by NDT Level I or II certification. Familiarity with penetrant testing equipment, safety protocols, and relevant industry standards such as ASNT or NAS 410 is typically required. Strong observational skills, problem-solving abilities, and clear communication help inspectors accurately identify and report defects. These skills and qualifications are vital for ensuring the safety and reliability of components in industries like aerospace, manufacturing, and construction.

What are some common challenges faced by penetrant testing professionals and how can they be addressed?

Penetrant testing professionals often encounter challenges such as identifying subtle surface discontinuities, working in confined or awkward spaces, and ensuring thorough cleaning of test surfaces to avoid false results. Staying up-to-date with the latest testing standards and maintaining attention to detail are crucial. Collaborating closely with other NDT (Non-Destructive Testing) team members and following strict safety protocols can help address these challenges, ensuring accurate and reliable inspections.

What is the difference between Penetrant vs Radiographer?

AspectPenetrantRadiographer
Required CertificationsPenetrant testing certification (e.g., ASNT Level II)Radiography certification (e.g., ARRT, ARDMS)
Work EnvironmentIndustrial settings, manufacturing, aerospaceMedical facilities, hospitals, clinics
Industry UsageNon-destructive testing (NDT) in manufacturingMedical imaging and diagnostics
Job FocusDetecting surface flaws in materialsCapturing images of the human body for diagnosis

While both Penetrant testers and Radiographers work with imaging techniques, Penetrant specialists focus on non-destructive testing of materials in industrial settings, whereas Radiographers operate medical imaging equipment to diagnose patients. Their certifications, environments, and industry applications differ, but both roles require specialized training and safety protocols.

More about Penetrant jobs

What states have the most Penetrant jobs?

States with the most job openings for Penetrant jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Penetrant jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Penetrant jobs are:

Penetrant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Penetrant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,725 per year, or $29.7 per hour.

Inspector Magnetic Penetrant

AXIUS GROUP LLC

Nashville, TN

Contractor

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

SUMMARY

The Inspector - Magnetic Penetrant & Dye Check is responsible for performing penetrant inspections on parts and components to identify defects and determine appropriate accept, reject, rework, or salvage dispositions. This position reads and interprets engineering drawings, specifications, and military or contract requirements, operates and sets up penetrant inspection equipment, completes required documentation, and supports inspection processes in a union manufacturing environment requiring flexibility to work any shift and mandatory overtime.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

  • Perform penetrant inspections on parts and components in accordance with applicable procedures and requirements
  • Inspect parts for defects and determine accept, reject, rework, or salvage disposition
  • Read and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and military or contract requirements
  • Operate and set up penetrant inspection equipment to support assigned inspection activities
  • Determine proper inspection processes, amperage, penetrant and emulsifier times, and processing sequences
  • Perform hardness and conductivity inspections as required
  • Determine appropriate rework methods and approve salvageable parts when applicable
  • Operate cranes and safely handle parts during inspection processes
  • Complete required paperwork, tagging, stamping, and documentation accurately and in a timely manner

KNOWLEDGE

  • Knowledge of NDT inspection procedures, requirements, and documentation practices
  • Knowledge of penetrant inspection equipment operation, setup, and inspection processing sequences
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints, engineering specifications, and military or contract specifications
  • Understanding of inspection acceptance criteria, defect identification, and part disposition requirements
  • Knowledge of hardness and conductivity inspection methods as required by assigned work

COMPETENCIES

  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to inspection accuracy
  • Sound judgment when determining accept, reject, rework, or salvage disposition
  • Ability to follow established processes, procedures, and safety requirements
  • Effective written documentation and communication skills
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a manufacturing inspection environment

EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION

  • Approximately two years of experience operating magnetic particle, penetrant, and dye check inspection equipment required
  • Experience performing NDT inspection activities in a manufacturing, aerospace, defense, or similar production environment preferred
  • Experience reading and interpreting blueprints, engineering specifications, and military or contract specifications required
  • Must be willing and able to work any shift and mandatory overtime as required

WORKING CONDITIONS

  • Work is performed in a manufacturing, production, and inspection environment
  • Must be available to work any shift and mandatory overtime due to the union environment
  • Role may require operation of cranes and handling of parts during inspection processes
  • Requires adherence to safety procedures, inspection requirements, and production schedules
  • Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position

WORK AUTHORIZATION/SECURITY CLEARANCE

  • Must be legally authorized to work in the United States
  • If a security clearance is required:
    • Candidate must be able to obtain and maintain applicable security clearance requirements
    • Successful candidates must be able to obtain required Program Access approval, if applicable

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