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Penetrant Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Role Overview As an NDT Inspector, you will perform approved non-destructive testing (NDT)-including fluorescent penetrant, magnetic particle, eddy current, ultrasonic, and visual inspections-to ...

Perform routine penetrant systems checks. * Maintain system and materials logs. * Process parts in accordance with approved techniques. * Inspect and evaluate parts in accordance with customer ...

Job Title: FPI Level II Inspector Reports To: FPI Level III FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Department: FPI Summary: Performs nondestructive evaluations of metallic parts using Fluorescent Penetrant ...

Lead in the use of Liquid Penetrant (PT), Magnetic Particle (MT), Eddy Current (ET), Ultrasonic (UT), and Visual Inspection methods in accordance with applicable technical manuals and other ...

Position Overview As an NDT Level II Inspector , you will perform approved non-destructive testing (NDT) inspections - including Fluorescent Penetrant (FPI), Magnetic Particle (MPI), Eddy Current ...

Position Overview As an NDT Level II Inspector , you will perform approved non-destructive testing (NDT) inspections - including Fluorescent Penetrant (FPI), Magnetic Particle (MPI), Eddy Current ...

Lead in the use of Liquid Penetrant (PT), Magnetic Particle (MT), Eddy Current (ET), Ultrasonic (UT), and Visual Inspection methods in accordance with applicable technical manuals and other ...

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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.
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:
NDT FPI Inspector (2nd Shift)

NDT FPI Inspector (2nd Shift)

Element Materials Technology

South Windsor, CT • On-site

$20.50 - $26.50/hr

Other

Posted 23 days ago


Element Materials Technology rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 41 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

58th of 103 rated laboratories


Job description

Overview

Element Materials Technology is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented NDT FPI Inspector (3rd Shift) to join our growing team. The successful candidate will perform nondestructive testing using Fluorescent Penetrant Inspection (FPI) techniques in accordance with applicable procedures, specifications, and standards. This position plays a key role in ensuring product integrity and quality in support of our aerospace and industrial customers. 

Salary: $20.50 - $26.50/hr DOE + shift differential 

Hours: 4:30pm - 3am

Responsibilities
  • Perform Fluorescent Penetrant Inspections (FPI) in accordance with customer specifications, procedures, and applicable standards.
  • Interpret and evaluate test results to determine conformance to acceptance criteria.
  • Accurately document inspection results, nonconformances, and associated data.
  • Conduct pre- and post-cleaning operations to prepare parts for inspection.
  • Set up, calibrate, and verify equipment performance as required.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment in compliance with Element's safety standards.
  • Collaborate with team members and supervisors to ensure efficient workflow and timely completion of testing.
  • Support continuous improvement efforts and uphold Element's commitment to quality and integrity.
Skills / Qualifications
  • Certification to NAS 410 in Fluorescent Penetrant Inspection (FPI) required (Level I considered with training and experience).
  • Previous experience performing FPI in a materials testing, aerospace, or manufacturing environment preferred.
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and work instructions.
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
  • Basic computer literacy and proficiency with data entry systems.
Company Overview

Element is one of the fastest growing testing, inspection and certification businesses in the world. Globally we have more than 9,000 brilliant minds operating from 270 sites across 30 countries. Together we share an ambitious purpose to 'Make tomorrow safer than today'.

When failure in use is not an option, we help customers make certain that their products, materials, processes and services are safe, compliant and fit for purpose. From early R&D, through complex regulatory approvals and into production, our global laboratory network of scientists, engineers, and technologists support customers to achieve assurance over product quality, sustainable outcomes, and market access.

While we are proud of our global reach, working at Element feels like being part of a smaller company. We empower you to take charge of your career, and reward excellence and integrity with growth and development.

Industries across the world depend on our care, attention to detail and the absolute accuracy of our work. The role we have to play in creating a safer world is much bigger than our organization.

Diversity Statement

At Element, we always take pride in putting our people first. We are an equal opportunity employer that recognizes diversity and inclusion as fundamental to our Vision of becoming "the world's most trusted testing partner".

All suitably qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment on the basis of objective work related criteria and without regard for the following: age, disability, ethnic origin, gender, marital status, race, religion, responsibility of dependents, sexual orientation, or gender identity or other characteristics in accordance with the applicable governing laws or other characteristics in accordance with the applicable governing laws.

The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c) 

"If you need an accommodation filling out an application, or applying to a job,  please email Recruitment@element.com"

Employment Type: OTHER

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