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NDT Researcher

Discover innovative solutions in a rapidly-evolving, multidisciplinary field that keeps the world safe.


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Approximate Annual Income for NDT Researchers

$50k-$120k*

According to The ASNT Foundation Compensation Survey, the average hourly income for NDT researchers is $40/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 researcher, you’ve attained crucial knowledge in a field that is constantly evolving and needs continued innovations and advancements. As such, you will be in high demand in many different workplaces.

What Does an NDT Researcher Do?

An NDT researcher studies novel methods or new applications of current methods that could enable NDT practitioners to test assets more efficiently and/or safely to ensure these assets keep functioning according to quality standards.

Imagine a role in which you build on the body of NDT knowledge by:

  • Conducting experiments and studies in a variety of disciplines

  • Publishing your research in prestigious scientific journals

  • Editing and contributing to essential publications

  • Presenting your research at premier, interdisciplinary conferences and events

  • Mentoring and teaching students

This career offers creative and dedicated researchers the chance to develop and refine the techniques and methods that keep the world safe—with the potential to work in a variety of work environments and disciplines.

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

  • Your geographical location

  • The industry you work in

  • Your company or institution size

  • Your years and types of experience

  • The number and variety of methods you are certified

  • Level of degrees held

What Does It Take to Be an NDT Researcher?

The term NDT researcher applies to those engaged in academic study or research and development within a variety of university, corporate, or government labs.

On this career path, you’ll typically hold postgraduate degrees or be enrolled in postgraduate education. You’ll specialize in advanced areas of study, building on existing knowledge to conduct experiments and study new applications or techniques. You’ll also be responsible for presenting your research in the form of presentations and articles, and you may also be asked to share your knowledge by contributing to industry publications, events, and committees and governing bodies.  

As an NDT researcher, you could work in a number of disciplines and workplaces. Consider a few examples:

Different Environments

  • Research laboratories

  • Academic institutions

  • Industrial research and development centers

  • Government research facilities

  • Field research sites

Different Organizational Structures

  • Part of research teams

  • Leading independent research projects

  • Collaborating with academic and industry partners

  • Working within a single organization

  • Coordinating multi-institutional research efforts

Different Job Tasks

  • Design and conduct experiments

  • Develop new NDT techniques and technologies

  • Analyze experimental data

  • Write research papers and reports

  • Present findings at conferences and seminars

Different Responsibilities

  • Solving complex technical problems

  • Recommending improvements to existing NDT methods

  • Contributing to the advancement of NDT knowledge and practices

NDT is such a cross-functional discipline that you can find something to interest you, whether it’s materials and structures, physics, or technology development. For me, I initially found the field of acoustics to be fascinating but have since ventured into other areas such as thermography and radiography as the applications necessitates.”

Megan McGovern, Senior Researcher, General Motors
Megan McGovern
Senior Researcher, General Motors

Additional Certifications: Meet NDT Researcher Requirements

While not always essential for researchers, ASNT standards-based certifications demonstrate your mastery of nondestructive testing methods and practical field experience—diversifying your skill set and enabling you a greater variety of 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.

A young man in a lab coat looks confidently at the camera in a research or laboratory setting.

What’s Next? Career Pathways for NDT Researchers

As an NDT researcher, you’re building a body of knowledge 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.

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NDT Consultant

Skillfully apply your NDT knowledge and experience to solve complex issues and provide valuable services to your own business clients

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Elevate Your NDT Experience

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

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