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Penetrant Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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)

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)

Be thoroughly familiar with the scope and limitations of Penetrant inspection using a Type I, Method A, form d system. * Be capable of providing the necessary guidance and/or supervision to trainees ...

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)

Performs magnetic particle, liquid penetrant inspection, and visual inspection activities on various equipment to company, customer, or regulatory requirements. Performs testing and certification of ...

Performs magnetic particle, liquid penetrant inspection, and visual inspection activities on various equipment to company, customer, or regulatory requirements. Performs testing and certification of ...

Performs magnetic particle, liquid penetrant inspection, and visual inspection activities on various equipment to company, customer, or regulatory requirements. Performs testing and certification of ...

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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 Jul 11, 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.
More about Penetrant Inspector jobs
What cities are hiring for Penetrant Inspector jobs? Cities with the most Penetrant Inspector job openings:
What states have the most Penetrant Inspector jobs? States with the most job openings for Penetrant Inspector jobs include:
Infographic showing various Penetrant Inspector job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 9% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,905 per year, or $27.4 per hour.
NDT Level II Inspector

NDT Level II Inspector

Sub Source

Bloomingdale, IL

$22 - $30/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Description

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 specifications, under the direct supervision of the Quality Manager and or Level 3 Supervisor. Shall follow the set processes and adheres to the best practices in testing as per the quality standards. $22.00/hr to $30.00/hr depending on experience


Responsibilities:


Conduct tests on product (castings, forgings, etc.) to ensure quality or detect discontinuities (defects) like internal fractures, corrosion, impurities, and similar defects in metal using LPI or MPI method of inspection.

Select, calibrate, or operate equipment used in the non-destructive testing (NDT) of products or materials.

Sort product according to types of defects and select the appropriate method and technique for LPI or MPI inspection.

Conduct liquid penetrant tests to locate surface cracks by coating objects with fluorescent dyes like Zyglo, cleaning excess penetrant, and applying developer.

Visually examine materials, structures, or components using tools and equipment.

Use testing processes that do not damage the structure of the object being tested.

Interpret or evaluate test results in accordance with applicable codes, standards, specifications, or procedures.

Document and prepare reports on Liquid Penetrant Inspection and/or Magnetic Particle (NDT) methods, processes, or results.

Follow and maintain established quality standard.

Responsible for departmental safety and housekeeping.

Perform all other duties as assigned.

Requirements

Education and Qualifications:


To perform this job successfully, an individual shall have sufficient education, training and experience to ensure qualification in Liquid Penetrant Inspection (LPI) and/or and Magnetic Particle (MPI).

Must have high school diploma or GED. Related on-the-job experience, or a 2-year associate degree in NDT Technology is a plus. NDT Level - II Certified by the American Society for Nondestructive Testing is preferred.

Related Experience - At least 3 years of previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for this occupation.

Job Training -- Some training preferred for on-the-job experience and informal training.

Exceptional safety and quality awareness: Actively contribute to company safety culture by observing all company safety policies and procedures. Technical/mechanical aptitude and computer proficiency preferred


Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance