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NDT Consultant

An NDT consultant works independently and applies their knowledge to a variety of NDT solutions that keep the world safe.


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Approximate Annual Income for NDT Consultants

$77k-$143k*

According to The ASNT Foundation Compensation Survey, the average hourly income for NDT consultants is $42/hr. Annual income varies based on hours worked per week and overtime.

Survey is based on US salaries and all rates are in US dollars.

When you’re an NDT consultant, you’re an in-demand subject matter expert who can work in a variety of roles.

What Does an NDT Consultant Do?

Looking to design your own career in a constantly evolving field? Nondestructive testing offers adventurous experiences—and work that can take you anywhere in the world.

A nondestructive testing (NDT) consultant (or NDT inspector) is an NDT subject matter expert who can be called on to solve a variety of problems.

Imagine a role in which you work independently:

  • Conducting NDT inspections in various testing methods

  • Providing NDT training services

  • Supporting clients across the various sectors of the NDT industry

This career offers knowledgeable practitioners a way to design their own career and work in a variety of industries and roles.

*As with any job, the salary range for NDT consultants is affected by a variety of factors including:

  • Your geographical location

  • The industry you work in

  • Your company size

  • Your years and types of experience

  • The number and variety of methods you are certified in

What Does It Mean to Be an NDT Consultant?

The term NDT Consultant applies to NDT subject matter experts who can be found in various roles across organizations, industries, and companies.

On this career path, you’ll typically hold a Level III certification and have a great range of responsibilities. You’ll be able to work independently to support your clients, conduct inspections, train upcoming NDT practitioners, and consult on NDT best practices.

As an NDT consultant, you can apply your expertise to many different NDT jobs, all while shaping your own career. Consider a few potential responsibilities:

Different Environments

  • Factories and OEMs

  • Aerospace companies

  • Oil and gas companies

  • NDT service providers

Different Organizational Structures

  • Working with management teams

  • Providing independent expert advice

  • Consulting at a single location

  • Traveling to various client sites

Different Job Tasks

  • Conduct testing and evaluation

  • Advise on best practices

  • Assess and improve quality control processes

  • Prepare detailed reports

  • Analyze data to provide insights and recommendations

Different Responsibilities

  • Identify flaws and defects

  • Advise on solutions

  • Develop programs and procedures

  • Create training for Level IIs

Essential Certifications: Meet NDT Consultant Requirements

ASNT standards-based certifications demonstrate your mastery of nondestructive testing methods and practical field experience—creating both stability and growth opportunities.

These globally recognized certifications are highly transferable—so you can take them with you as you advance or change roles and jobs.

ASNT NDT Level III

Computer-based examination for general NDT testing and specific qualifications in one or more testing methods and their related techniques.

ASNT 9712 Level III

Computer-based and practical hands-on demonstration of qualifications in NDT testing across the most in-demand methods and techniques.

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What’s Next? Career Pathways for NDT Consultants

As an NDT consultant, you have expertise and skills that open doors to career advancement in many directions.

As your experience grows, you may find yourself with options for transitioning your skills into new companies, locations, applications, or even across industries.

See where your advanced skills can lead.

NDT Manager

Develop, implement, and maintain programs, methods, and procedures to ensure that NDT inspections meet quality and safety standards.

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NDT Instructor

Share your NDT testing knowledge and expertise by providing quality instruction to students in NDT education programs.

Explore This Path

Elevate Your NDT Experience

ASNT is your resource, partner, and community connection throughout your NDT career.

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