NDT Team Lead

GKN Aerospace

$90K — $120K *
Aerospace & Defense
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • NAS 410 Level 2 or 3 certification in Ultrasonic Testing (UT) and/or Radiographic Testing (RT) preferred, with a clear path if Level 2.
  • 5-7 years of NDT experience in the aerospace industry with an emphasis on composite materials.
  • At least 2 years in a supervisory or lead technician capacity.
  • In-depth, practical knowledge of Nadcap audit criteria, specifically AC7114 series, and NAS 410 regulations.
  • Expertise in interpreting UT C-scans and Digital Radiographic images with a solid grasp of composite manufacturing processes.

Responsibilities

  • Supervise, schedule, and mentor NDT technicians while ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards.
  • Serve as the primary contact for Nadcap audits and FAA/EASA reviews while maintaining the NDT Quality Manual.
  • Review and approve NDT procedures and data interpretations for complex composite structures.
  • Manage the internal NDT certification program, including exam administration and performance tracking.
  • Identify and implement advanced NDT technologies to enhance defect detection capabilities.
  • Collaborate with Engineering and Quality Assurance to address non-conformance reports and perform root cause analysis.

Benefits

  • Opportunity to lead a specialized NDT department within a critical aerospace sector.
  • Engagement with cutting-edge technologies in non-destructive testing.
  • Support for professional growth towards higher NDT certifications and leadership development.
  • Collaboration in a dynamic team environment focused on quality and safety.
  • Contribution to safety and quality assurance for aerospace components, impacting overall industry standards.
Full Job Description
Job Summary

As the NDT Supervisor, you will lead the Non-Destructive Testing department, ensuring the highest standards of safety and quality for critical aerospace composite components. You will oversee a team of technicians, manage department workflows, and serve as the primary technical authority for Nadcap and NAS 410 compliance. This role combines high-level technical expertise in Ultrasonic Testing (UT) and Radiography (RT) with the leadership skills necessary to maintain a world-class inspection program.

Job Responsibilities

  • Department Leadership: Supervise, schedule, and mentor a team of NDT technicians to ensure production targets are met while maintaining 100% compliance with safety and quality standards.
  • Compliance Authority: Act as the Point of Contact for all Nadcap audits and FAA/EASA regulatory reviews. Maintain the NDT Quality Manual and ensure the facility meets all NAS 410 requirements for personnel certification and training.
  • Technical Oversight: Review and approve NDT procedures and data interpretations for complex composite structures (e.g., rotor blades, engine casings). Provide final "fit-for-service" determinations on ambiguous inspection results.
  • Quality & Training: Manage the internal certification program, including the administration of general, specific, and practical exams for NDT personnel. Track technician hours and ensure vision eye exams and annual performance reviews are current.
  • Process Improvement: Identify and implement advanced NDT technologies (e.g., Phased Array UT or Digital Radiography) to improve throughput and defect detection sensitivity in composite laminates.
  • Collaboration: Work closely with the Engineering and Quality Assurance departments to resolve non-conformance reports (NCRs) and assist in root cause analysis for manufacturing defects.


Job Qualifications

  • Certification:NAS 410 Level 2 or 3 certification in Ultrasonic Testing (UT) and/or Radiographic Testing (RT) is preferred. If Level 2, the candidate must be on a clear path to Level 3.
  • Experience:
    • Minimum of 5-7 years of NDT experience in the aerospace industry, specifically working with composite materials.
    • At least 2 years in a supervisory or lead technician role.
  • Regulatory Knowledge: Deep, "hands-on" experience with Nadcap audit criteria (AC7114 series) and the NAS 410 standard for qualification and certification of personnel.
  • Technical Skills:
    • Expert-level interpretation of UT C-scans and Digital Radiographic images.
    • Strong understanding of aerospace composite manufacturing processes (e.g., layup, cure cycles, and bonding).
  • Leadership Skills: Excellent communication skills, the ability to manage high-pressure deadlines, and a "quality-first" mindset.

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