17 NDT Technician Interview Questions and Answers

An NDT technician is a specialist who uses nondestructive testing methods to examine the properties of a material, component, or system without causing damage. NDT technicians work in a variety of industries, including aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing.

If you’re interested in becoming an NDT technician, you’ll need to have strong math skills and be able to understand complex technical information. You’ll also need to be able to use a variety of NDT equipment. Most importantly, you’ll need to be able to communicate clearly and effectively.

An interview is your chance to show an employer that you have the skills and qualifications they are looking for. To help you prepare, we’ve put together a list of common NDT technician interview questions and answers.

Are you familiar with the types of nondestructive testing equipment that are commonly used in your industry?

This question can help the interviewer determine your level of experience with NDT equipment. If you have previous experience working as an NDT technician, describe what types of testing equipment you used and how it helped you complete your job duties. If this is your first time working in this industry, explain which types of equipment you are familiar with and why you chose to pursue a career in NDT.

Example: “I’ve worked as an NDT technician for five years now, so I am quite familiar with the different types of nondestructive testing equipment that are commonly used in my field. For example, I use ultrasonic testing equipment when I need to inspect welds on large structures like bridges or buildings. I also use radiographic testing equipment to examine metal components for flaws.”

What are the primary benefits of using nondestructive testing to examine industrial materials?

This question is your opportunity to show the interviewer that you understand how NDT can benefit a company. Use examples from your experience to explain why this testing method is beneficial and what it can do for an organization.

Example: “NDT allows me to examine industrial materials without damaging them, which saves time and money in the long run. It also helps me identify issues with equipment before they become more serious problems. This means I can make recommendations on how to fix or replace parts of machinery before production slows down or stops completely.”

How would you explain the concept of nondestructive testing to someone without a technical background?

This question is a great way to show your communication skills and ability to explain complex concepts in simple terms. When answering this question, try to use examples of how you’ve explained technical processes or procedures to others in the past.

Example: “Nondestructive testing is a process that allows technicians to examine materials without damaging them. For example, I once had a client who was looking for ways to inspect their equipment without having to take it apart. Using nondestructive testing methods, we were able to find small cracks in the metal that would have gone unnoticed if we’d only used destructive testing.”

What is the primary purpose of nondestructive testing?

This question is an opportunity to show your interviewer that you understand the purpose of NDT and how it can be used in a variety of industries. Your answer should include a brief explanation of what NDT does and why it’s important for quality control purposes.

Example: “The primary purpose of nondestructive testing is to ensure the structural integrity of metal, concrete and composite materials without damaging them. This allows me to inspect these materials more thoroughly than I would if I were using destructive testing methods like drilling or cutting. With NDT, I can examine the material’s surface, interior and welds to determine whether there are any issues with its strength or durability.”

Provide an example of a material that requires nondestructive testing.

This question is an opportunity to show your knowledge of the field. You can list several materials that require NDT testing and explain why they do.

Example: “There are many different types of materials that need nondestructive testing, including metals, ceramics, plastics and composite materials. Each material requires a specific type of test because each has its own unique properties. For example, metal needs eddy current testing because it conducts electricity well. Ceramics need ultrasonic testing because they have high density and conduct sound waves well. Plastics need fluorescent penetrant testing because they’re transparent and absorbent.”

If you discovered a problem with your equipment, how would you troubleshoot the issue?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you approach challenges and solve problems. Your answer should show that you are willing to take initiative, learn new skills and apply problem-solving techniques to fix issues.

Example: “If I discovered a problem with my equipment, I would first try to identify what caused it. If I was unable to figure out the cause of the issue myself, I would ask for help from someone who has more experience in NDT testing. Once we identified the problem, I would troubleshoot the issue by checking all the connections on the equipment and making sure everything is working properly. If there’s still an issue, I would call the manufacturer or seek additional training until I am able to resolve the problem.”

What would you do if you were performing an inspection and the results were inconclusive?

Interviewers may ask this question to see how you respond to challenges and setbacks. They want to know that you can handle unexpected situations with confidence and professionalism. In your answer, explain what steps you would take to solve the problem and ensure it doesn’t happen again.

Example: “If I was performing an inspection and the results were inconclusive, I would first try to understand why the test didn’t work properly. If there was a simple solution, such as adjusting my equipment or changing the lighting in the area, I would do so immediately. If not, I would consult with my supervisor about what to do next. Depending on the situation, we might need to reschedule the inspection for another day.”

How well do you pay attention to detail when performing inspections?

Attention to detail is an important skill for NDT technicians because they must be able to perform their duties accurately. Employers ask this question to make sure you have the ability to pay attention to detail and ensure your work is accurate. In your answer, explain that you are a highly organized person who can keep track of many details at once. Explain how you use your organizational skills to complete tasks efficiently.

Example: “I am very good at paying attention to detail when performing inspections. I find that my organization skills help me stay on top of all the information I need to remember during each inspection. For example, if I’m inspecting a weld seam, I know exactly what measurements I should take and in which order. This helps me avoid mistakes and ensures that I get the results I expect.”

Do you have experience working with a team of other NDT technicians?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you interact with others and your ability to work as part of a team. When answering, it can be helpful to mention any specific skills or qualities that helped you succeed in this role.

Example: “In my current position, I am one of three NDT technicians on our team. We each have different skill sets, which allows us to cover all aspects of testing when we are working together. For example, if one person is having trouble reading an inspection, another technician may be able to assist them by using their own expertise. This helps ensure that no matter what happens during testing, we can handle it.”

When performing an inspection, what is the proper procedure for documenting your findings?

The interviewer may ask you a question like this to assess your organizational skills and attention to detail. In your answer, describe the steps you take when documenting inspection results and include any special software or tools you use to keep track of your documentation.

Example: “I always start by taking notes on my findings during the inspection process. I write down all observations as they happen so that I can remember them later. After each test, I record the results in my notebook along with any additional information about the test conditions. At the end of the day, I enter all of my notes into an electronic database where I can organize my data according to client, project location and other relevant details.”

We want to expand our business into new markets. How would you use nondestructive testing to assess the quality of materials used in manufacturing?

This question allows you to show your knowledge of the industry and how it can be applied in a business setting. You can use examples from past projects or explain what you would do if you were tasked with this responsibility.

Example: “I have experience working on several large-scale projects that required me to assess materials for quality control. In one instance, I was hired by a construction company to test the structural integrity of buildings before they were occupied. I used nondestructive testing methods like ultrasonic testing and magnetic particle inspection to ensure there were no issues with the building’s foundation or walls. This allowed the company to move forward with their project without any delays.”

Describe your experience with using computer-aided detection systems.

NDT technicians use computer-aided detection systems to analyze the results of their tests. The interviewer wants to know if you have experience using this technology and how well you can operate it. If you do, describe your experience with the system in detail. If you don’t, explain that you are eager to learn about it.

Example: “I’ve used a variety of CAD software programs throughout my career as an NDT technician. I find these programs very useful because they allow me to create detailed reports on the test results. In addition, I can share the information with other technicians who need access to it. I am comfortable working with any type of CAD program.”

What makes nondestructive testing an attractive option for businesses?

This question helps the interviewer understand your knowledge of NDT and how it can benefit a company. Use examples from your experience to explain why you think businesses would want to use this testing method.

Example: “Nondestructive testing is an attractive option for companies because it allows them to examine their products without damaging them. This means they don’t have to replace or repair anything, which saves time and money. It also gives technicians more information about the product’s condition so that they can make better decisions about repairs or replacements.”

Which industries do you think could benefit from nondestructive testing the most?

This question can help the interviewer get a better sense of your knowledge and experience with NDT. You can use this opportunity to highlight any specific industries you have worked in or that you are familiar with.

Example: “I think nondestructive testing is especially important for construction projects, as it allows companies to ensure their work meets industry standards before they begin building. It’s also beneficial for manufacturing facilities because it helps them identify issues within their equipment so they can make repairs before production begins. I’ve had plenty of experience working in both of these industries, which has helped me develop my skills as an NDT technician.”

What do you think is the most challenging part of being an NDT technician?

This question can help the interviewer get to know you as a person and understand what your thoughts are on this career. It can also show them how you might handle challenges that come with the job. When answering, it can be helpful to think about the most challenging part of being an NDT technician for you personally.

Example: “The most challenging part of being an NDT technician is definitely working in tight spaces. I have always been claustrophobic, so when I first started out in this field, I was worried that I wouldn’t be able to do my job well because of this fear. However, I worked through my fears by practicing deep breathing exercises before entering these spaces. Now, I am confident in my abilities and feel like I can overcome any challenge.”

How often do you perform routine maintenance on your equipment?

This question can help the interviewer determine your attention to detail and how well you care for your tools. It can also show them that you understand the importance of regular maintenance. When answering, try to emphasize your commitment to keeping your equipment in good condition.

Example: “I perform routine maintenance on my equipment at least once a month. I check all of the connections, clean any lenses and make sure everything is working properly. If something seems off or if there’s a problem with one of my tools, I’ll take it out of service until I can fix it. I always keep extra parts on hand so I can repair things quickly.”

There is a new technology that could improve the accuracy of your inspections. How would you learn how to use it?

This question can help the interviewer determine your ability to adapt to new technologies and processes. Use examples from previous experience or explain how you would research the technology and learn how to use it.

Example: “I have worked with many different types of inspection equipment, so I am familiar with learning new systems. In my last position, we were tasked with inspecting a bridge that was built using a new material. The company who made the material provided us with training on how to inspect their product. We also had to learn how to calibrate our equipment for the specific type of metal used in the bridge.”