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Penetrant Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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We are seeking an Fluorescent Penetrant Inspector/Trainee to join our Day Shift (7am - 3:30pm) team! You will conduct tests to determine the quality of materials and finished products as well as ...

NDT Inspector

High Bridge, NJ · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Perform Liquid Penetrant inspections according to specified procedures and interpret results accurately. * Conduct quality system checks on inspection equipment and consumables as required. * Ensure ...

Description The NDT Level II Inspector is responsible for conducting the Liquid Penetrant Inspection (LPI) and Magnetic Particle (MPI) on product to ensure that physical properties meet product ...

NDT Level II Inspector

Rockford, IL · On-site

$19 - $30/hr

Job Type Full-time Description The NDT Level II Inspector is responsible for conducting the Liquid Penetrant Inspection (LPI) and Magnetic Particle (MPI) on product to ensure that physical properties ...

NDT Level II Inspector

IL · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

The NDT Level II Inspector is responsible for conducting the Liquid Penetrant Inspection (LPI) and Magnetic Particle (MPI) on product to ensure that physical properties meet product specifications ...

The NDT Level II Inspector is responsible for conducting the Liquid Penetrant Inspection (LPI) and Magnetic Particle (MPI) on product to ensure that physical properties meet product specifications ...

The NDT Level II Inspector is responsible for conducting the Liquid Penetrant Inspection (LPI) and Magnetic Particle (MPI) on product to ensure that physical properties meet product specifications ...

The NDT Level II Inspector is responsible for conducting the Liquid Penetrant Inspection (LPI) and Magnetic Particle (MPI) on product to ensure that physical properties meet product specifications ...

Advance has an immediate opening for a Level I, II, & III Non-Destructive Testing Inspector in Liquid Penetrant Inspection (LPI), Magnetic Particle Inspection (MPI), or Visual Testing (VT)

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Penetrant Inspector information

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$12

$27

$52

How much do penetrant inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for penetrant inspector in the United States is $27.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $31.49 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Penetrant Inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Penetrant Inspector, you need a solid understanding of non-destructive testing (NDT) principles, attention to detail, and typically a certification such as ASNT Level I or II in liquid penetrant testing. Familiarity with NDT equipment, penetrant materials, and industry standards like ASTM E165 is important for accurate inspections. Strong observational skills, effective communication, and integrity help ensure thorough documentation and collaboration with quality teams. These skills ensure the reliability and safety of inspected components, helping prevent failures and maintain compliance with industry regulations.

What are Penetrant Inspectors?

Penetrant Inspectors are professionals who use liquid penetrant testing (LPT), a nondestructive testing (NDT) method, to detect surface-breaking defects in materials such as metals, ceramics, and plastics. They apply a visible or fluorescent dye to the surface of a material, allow it to seep into cracks or flaws, then remove the excess and apply a developer to draw out the dye trapped in defects. This process helps identify issues like cracks, seams, or porosity that could affect the integrity or performance of the material. Penetrant Inspectors are essential in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing, where safety and reliability are critical.

What is the difference between Penetrant Inspector vs Magnetic Particle Inspector?

AspectPenetrant InspectorMagnetic Particle Inspector
CertificationsLevel I, II, III in liquid penetrant testingLevel I, II, III in magnetic particle testing
Work EnvironmentNon-magnetic materials, surface inspectionsMagnetic materials, surface and near-surface inspections
Industry UsageAerospace, automotive, manufacturingPower generation, aerospace, manufacturing
Common Search/ComparisonOften compared for nondestructive testing methodsRelated NDT method for magnetic materials

Penetrant Inspectors and Magnetic Particle Inspectors both perform nondestructive testing but focus on different materials and techniques. Penetrant Inspectors examine non-magnetic surfaces using liquid penetrants, while Magnetic Particle Inspectors work with magnetic materials using magnetic fields. Both roles require specific certifications and are vital in quality assurance across various industries.

What are some common challenges faced by Penetrant Inspectors during inspections, and how can they be addressed?

Penetrant Inspectors often face challenges such as detecting very fine surface defects, ensuring proper cleaning of parts before and after inspection, and working with varying part geometries that can affect penetrant application. To address these, inspectors must follow strict adherence to standardized procedures, maintain meticulous attention to detail, and continuously update their knowledge through training. Collaboration with other quality assurance team members and effective communication with engineers can also help resolve ambiguities and improve inspection accuracy.
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What states have the most Penetrant Inspector jobs? States with the most job openings for Penetrant Inspector jobs include:

Penetrant Inspector Level II - 1st Shift

alu

Santa Ana, CA

$20.25 - $26.96/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Job Summary:

We are looking for a Level II NDT PENETRANT INSPECTOR that can start working right away.  The Inspector will be responsible for inspecting parts for defects as per our internal penetrant procedures.

Job Requirements:

  • Use Penetrant method of non-destructive testing (NDT) to detect surface defects invisible to the naked eye.
  • Perform all penetrant system checks.
  • Inspect parts following our internal Penetrant Inspection procedures.         
  • Evaluate all discontinuities and defects as specified by acceptance criteria.
  • Mark all defects and discontinuities clearly with a red marker.
  • Work within all time limits to avoid re-processing parts.
  • Re-evaluate and/or reject defected parts as required.
  • Maintain and document records of inspection.
  • Communicate effectively and professionally with employees across all levels and departments at APP.
  • Work safe and maintain an organized, lean work environment.
  • Strong commitment to good attendance and being on time as it is critical to meet production needs.

 

Skill Requirements:

  • In compliance with ITAR regulations, must be a US Citizen or US Person.
  • Must have previously had NAS 410 certification and be able to pass a specific and practical penetrant exam.
  • Ability to follow specific instructions and directions.
  • Able to work in a demanding fast-paced environment. 
  • English (reading, writing, verbal and comprehension).

 

Why work for APP?

  • On-the-job training and opportunities for advancement with a strong promote within program.
  • Medical, Dental, Vision – Generous company contribution, low cost to employee
  • Life insurance – 100% company paid - covers employee, spouse and dependent children
  • Generous Vacation Time
  • 9 Paid Holidays
  • Holiday Shut Down (Christmas thru New Year’s)
  • Sick Time
  • Annual Bonus (based on company meeting Key Results)
  • 401k (Company matches up to 4%)
  • ESOP Employee Profit Sharing Retirement Plan (100% Company Paid)
  • Tuition reimbursement

 

Compensation: $20.25 to $26.96 an hour. This is the lowest to highest salary we in good faith believe we would pay for this role at the time of this posting. We may ultimately pay more or less than the posted range, and the range may be modified in the future. An employee’s pay within the salary range will be based on several factors including, but limited to, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, seniority, geographic location, performance, and business or organizational needs.

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