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Penetrant Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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

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 ...

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 ...

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)

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)

... penetrant inspections, as required • Complete first article inspections prior to full-scale production • Accurately document inspection results and production data in SAP and related systems • ...

... penetrant inspections, as required Complete first article inspections prior to full-scale production Accurately document inspection results and production data in SAP and related systems Support ...

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 ...

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

... penetrant inspections, as required • Complete first article inspections prior to full-scale production • Accurately document inspection results and production data in SAP and related systems • ...

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Penetrant Inspector information

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How much do penetrant inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 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 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.

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.

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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 50% Physical, and 50% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,905 per year, or $27.4 per hour.

Fluorescent Penetrant Testing Inspector

Steel Tool & Engineering

Trenton, MI

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Steel Tool & Engineering Co., located in Trenton, MI, is seeking a full-time Fluorescent Penetrant Testing Inspector to join our expert engineering team. As a leading force in aerospace precision machining and fabrication, we offer competitive hourly pay, a generous benefits package that includes:

  • 100% paid health insurance (If you already have medical coverage and don't request STE medical insurance, you can receive a $300/month medical waiver)
  • Dental and vision for you and your dependents
  • Life insurance
  • 401(k) retirement plan
  • Paid holidays
  • Paid vacations

WHAT'S IN IT FOR YOU?

Your work schedule will be a dependable, full-time shift from 6:00 am to 4:30 pm.


Requirements:

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • 1+ year(s) of experience in nondestructive testing (other methods, such as Magnetic Particle, are encouraged to apply too)
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints, specifications, and work instructions
  • Ability to pass near-vision and color-vision exams required for NDT
  • Ability to lift 50 lbs.
  • Excellent problem-solving and communication skills

Preferred:

  • NDT Level II certification in Penetrant Testing per NAS-410 or ASNT (or equivalent documented training or experience)
  • Familiarity with ISO standards and industry regulations

OUR GENEROUS BENEFITS

  • 100% paid health insurance (If you already have medical coverage and don't request STE medical insurance, you can receive a $300/month medical waiver)
  • Dental and vision for you and your dependents
  • Life insurance
  • 401(k) retirement plan
  • Paid holidays
  • Paid vacations

WHAT DO YOU DO AS OUR FLUORESCENT PENETRANT TESTING INSPECTOR?

  • Execute end-to-end FPI process: pre-cleaning, penetrant application, dwell time control, excess removal, drying, developer application, and UV-A inspection
  • Interpret and record indications; determine part disposition per specifications
  • Perform visual and basic dimensional inspections using calipers and gauge pins
  • Maintain FPI equipment and process controls (e.g., UV intensity checks, developer coverage, system checks)
  • Safely handle parts and chemicals; adhere to all EHS procedures and hazardous waste protocols

A LITTLE BIT MORE ABOUT US

At Steel Tool & Engineering, we don't just build precision aerospace components-we build careers. Specializing in brazed honeycomb assemblies for turbine engines in both commercial and military markets, we're proud to be a one-stop shop where innovation meets craftsmanship. What makes us different? Our commitment to system-driven, data-backed processes that ensure top-tier quality, productivity, and delivery. We support our customers through every stage of new product development, and we do it with a team that feels more like family. If you're looking for a workplace where your skills are valued, your growth is supported, and your contributions truly matter, Steel Tool & Engineering is the place to be.


BE OUR NEW FLUORESCENT PENETRANT TESTING INSPECTOR!

Join our aerospace team today! We invite you to apply through our mobile-friendly application process today.