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Senior Radiographer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

NDE ENGINEER, RADIOGRAPHY TESTING This Sr. NDE Engineer position sits within the NDE Engineering organization. You will be required to interface across multiple business groups to develop and support ...

NDE ENGINEER, RADIOGRAPHY TESTING This Sr. NDE Engineer position sits within the NDE Engineering organization. You will be required to interface across multiple business groups to develop and support ...

NDT level I Penetrant

Oceanside, CA · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Senior is an FTSE UK based international manufacturing Group with 26 operations in 12 countries ... Uses automated and manual techniques including digital radiography (DR) and fluorescent penetrant ...

NDT level I Penetrant

Oceanside, CA · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Senior is an FTSE UK based international manufacturing Group with 26 operations in 12 countries ... Uses automated and manual techniques including digital radiography (DR) and fluorescent penetrant ...

Level II Radiographer

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$66K - $93K/yr

Assists the Sr. Technician and instructs the apprentice level personnel on the job. * Studies to gain NDT certifications while assisting to gain hands-on experience in various NDT methods. * Performs ...

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Senior Radiographer information

See California salary details

$24.7K

$79.2K

$161.4K

How much do senior radiographer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior radiographer in California is $79,236.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,000.00 and $101,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do senior radiographers make in the US?

Senior radiographers in the US typically earn between $70,000 and $90,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. They often work in hospitals, clinics, or imaging centers, utilizing advanced imaging equipment and maintaining licensure requirements.

What is the difference between Senior Radiographer vs Radiologic Technologist?

AspectSenior RadiographerRadiologic Technologist
CredentialsRegistered Radiographer, often with additional experience or certificationsRegistered Radiologic Technologist, typically with certification or licensing
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, imaging centers; may supervise staffHospitals, clinics, outpatient imaging centers; primarily perform imaging procedures
ResponsibilitiesPerforming advanced imaging, supervising junior staff, quality controlPerforming diagnostic imaging procedures under supervision

The main difference between a Senior Radiographer and a Radiologic Technologist lies in experience, responsibilities, and leadership roles. Senior Radiographers often have more advanced skills, supervisory duties, and specialized certifications, whereas Radiologic Technologists focus on performing diagnostic imaging under supervision. Both roles are essential in healthcare settings, with the senior position typically requiring more experience and offering additional responsibilities.

What does a senior radiographer do?

A senior radiographer is responsible for performing diagnostic imaging procedures such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRI scans. They operate imaging equipment, ensure patient safety, and may supervise junior staff while maintaining accurate records and adhering to safety protocols.
What are the most commonly searched types of Radiographer jobs in California? The most popular types of Radiographer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Senior Radiographer jobs? Cities in California with the most Senior Radiographer job openings:
Infographic showing various Senior Radiographer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% As Needed, 58% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $79,236 per year, or $38.1 per hour.

Materials Radiographer - Non-Destructive Evaluation (NDE)

The Aerospace Corporation

El Segundo, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation's space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space- delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you'll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space.

Job Summary

The Aerospace Physical Sciences Laboratories (PSL) is a diverse scientific organization that provides a broad and innovative research and development backplane for a growing space enterprise. PSL's impact is grown through a diverse research portfolio that blends foundational scientific research with cutting-edge technology development to serve a broad customer base. PSL's exclusive ability to work with all stakeholders: (government, industry, and academia) enables us to provide novel solutions to the most challenging issues in current and future technology applications. The strength of PSL comes from the combination of cutting-edge tools and facilities, a vast repository of space-system knowledge, and the extensive technical expertise of our people. We harness these tools and expertise in over 150 different laboratories to tackle the new challenges for the space enterprise.

The Materials Science Department within the Space Materials Laboratory (SML) isseekinga highly experienced radiography specialist for the role of Materials Radiographer - Non-Destructive Evaluation(NDE) (Research Scientist /Senior Scientist- Materials Science).In this role, you will perform and oversee industrial radiographic inspections of critical aerospace hardware, applying advanced imaging techniques to characterize structural materials and detect defects in launch vehicle and spacecraft components. You will define inspection approaches, lead field evaluations, and develop innovative data analysis methodologies to address complex inspection challenges. This position requires technical leadership in supporting mission assurance for USSF, NRO, and commercial space programs.

The selected candidate will be required to work full-time, on-site at our facility in El Segundo, CA.

What You'll Be Doing

  • Perform and oversee industrial radiographic inspections of mission-critical launch vehicle and spacecraft components, applying advanced X-ray imaging techniques to characterize materials and detect defects
  • Develop,validate, andoptimizeradiographic inspection methodologies for aerospace materials including composites, metals, and bonded structures
  • Lead field inspections at manufacturing facilities and launch sites, providing expert technical guidance and real-time assessment of flight hardware
  • Develop data analysis methodologies for complex radiographic datasets, provide objective interpretation of findings, and collaborate with engineering teams on risk assessment and disposition recommendations for USSF, NRO, and commercial space programs
  • Conduct expert review of radiographic inspection data, manufacturing acceptance documentation, and supplier NDI reports to verify compliance with specifications and ensure hardware quality
  • Conduct applied research in X-ray science and radiographic techniques to solve emerging inspection challenges and advance materials characterization capabilities
  • Support failure investigations, root cause analysis, and technical reviews through expert radiographic evaluation and documentation

What You Need to be Successful

Minimum requirements for the Research Scientist - Materials Science include:

  • Master'sdegree in Aerospace Engineering, Materials Science,Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics,or related disciplineis required
  • A minimum of (8)yearsof professional industry experience is required
  • Expert-level knowledge of X-ray science, radiographic imaging physics, and industrial radiography techniques including film, digital radiography, andotherX-ray based characterization methods
  • Demonstrated mastery in performing and interpreting radiographic inspections of aerospace materials including composites, metals, adhesive bonds, and complex assemblies
  • Strong foundationin aerospace materials behavior, structural mechanics, and defect characterization to inform inspection strategy and data interpretation
  • Proventrack recordof developing novel inspection approaches and resolving ambiguous or challenging radiographic findings
  • Comprehensive knowledge of radiation safety protocols, regulations, and best practices for industrial radiography operations
  • Willingness to travel occasionally and work off-business hours to support customer needs (approximately 20% travel or asrequired)
  • This position requires ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. government. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance

In addition to the above, the minimum requirements for the Senior Scientist- Materials Science include:

  • A minimum of (12) or more years of professional industry experience is required
  • Recognized subject matter expert in industrial radiography with history of providing technical consultation to engineering teams and program leadership
  • Extensive field inspection experienceincludingwork at manufacturing facilities, integration sites, and launch complexes with ability to work independently in dynamic environments
  • Track recordof training and mentoring junior radiographers and technical staff in X-ray techniques, image interpretation, and best practices
  • Demonstrated success interfacing directly with government customers and certification authorities on technical radiographic matters

How You Can Stand Out

It would be impressive if you have one or more of these:

  • Ph.D. degree in Aerospace Engineering, Materials Science,Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics,or related disciplineis preferred
  • (20) or more years of professional industry experience is preferred
  • Current IRRSP (Industrial Radiography Radiation Safety Personnel) certification or equivalent radiation safety qualification
  • ASNT Level III certification in Radiographic Testing (RT) or active pursuit of Level III qualification
  • Advanced image analysis and processing skills using Python, MATLAB, ImageJ, or specialized radiographic software
  • Experience with computed tomography (CT) imaging, 3D reconstruction, or advanced digital radiography techniques
  • Demonstrated application of machine learning or AI-based approaches to radiographic image analysis and defect detection
  • In-depth knowledge of aerospace NDI standards and specifications (ASTM E1742, E2033, MIL-STD-453, NADCAP requirements, etc.)
  • Peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, or technical papers in radiography, X-ray science, or materials characterization
  • Experience supporting Intelligence Community programs or national security space missions
  • A current and active Secret or TS/SCI security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. government, is strongly preferred. U.S. citizenship is requiredto obtain a security clearance

We offer a competitive compensation package where you'll be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you bring to our business. The grade-based pay range for this job is listed below. Individual salaries within that range are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge and skills.

(Min - Max)

$117,300.00 - $226,900.00Pay Basis: Annual

Leadership Competencies

Our leadership philosophy is simple: every employee, regardless of level and role, can demonstrate leadership. At Aerospace, our commitment is our people. To cultivate our talent and ensure that we have a strong pipeline of future leaders, we want individuals who:

  • Operate Strategically
  • Lead Change
  • Engage with Impact
  • Foster Innovation
  • Deliver Results

Ways We Reward Our Employees

During your interview process, our team will provide details of our industry-leading benefits.

Benefits vary and are applicable based on Job Type. A few highlights include:

  • Comprehensive health care and wellness plans

  • Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation

  • Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options

  • 401(k) Plan - Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire

  • Flexible spending accounts

  • Variable pay program for exceptional contributions

  • Relocation assistance

  • Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career

  • Education assistance programs

  • An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect

We are all unique, from various backgrounds and all walks of life, yet one thing bonds all of us to each other-the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to do our best work at The Aerospace Corporation.

Equal Opportunity Commitment

The Aerospace Corporation is an equalopportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, color,religion,geneticinformation, marital status, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, physical disability, medical condition, mental disability, or disability status and any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. If you're an individual with a disability or a disabled veteran who needs assistance using our online job search and application tools or need reasonable accommodation to complete the job application process, please contact us by phone at 310.336.5432 or by emailatpeoplemangmnt.mailbox@aero.org .You can also reviewKnow Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal.