CAREER PATHS

Non-Destructive Testing

Play an integral role in certifying the safety of the next generation of Naval submarines by employing the most advanced evaluation technologies to determine their quality and reliability.

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What is non-destructive testing?

Non-destructive testing (NDT) is a branch of engineering and quality assurance that involves inspecting, testing, and evaluating components or structures without causing any permanent damage or altering their integrity.

This essential protective measure helps ensure the long-term reliability of submarines and provides numerous advantages:

Providing quality assurance

Testing techniques allow for comprehensive inspection and evaluation of submarine components, ensuring that they meet the required quality standards.

Ensuring structural integrity

These methods help reduce risks by identifying defects early on in the manufacturing process and assessing the structural integrity of submarine components to ensure that they can operate in extreme pressure and corrosive conditions.

Saving time and money

It enables the detection of defects and flaws without the need for destructive testing–which would require dismantling or damaging the components–helping to reduce production costs and minimize downtime during manufacturing.

Providing preventive maintenance

These inspections are not only used during the manufacturing phase but also throughout the lifecycle of the submarine to help identify hidden defects, corrosion, or wear and tear in critical components.

Allowing non-intrusive inspection

It enables inspection without disassembling or altering the submarine structure significantly, which minimizes disruptions to the manufacturing process and ensures that the structural integrity of the submarine remains intact.

Providing regulatory compliance

It provides a reliable means of assessing compliance, ensuring that the manufactured submarines meet the required specifications and safety standards set by regulatory bodies.

A welding inspector assessing a submarine component.
A craftsman measuring a submarine component.
An engineer in a lab coat working on a machine.
A welding inspector assessing a submarine component.

Where a close eye can save lives

Naval submarine crews rely on their vessels to keep them protected in the most extreme and treacherous environments. Through your diligent work as an NDT inspector, you will play a crucial role in enabling them to safeguard our nation while resting assured that they can rely on their equipment.

Imagine this scenario: A newly constructed submarine is undergoing a routine dive test when suddenly the vessel ascends at an alarming and dangerous rate. Thanks to your ultrasonic testing, you are able to detect microscopic cracks in the ballast tank that are then quickly repaired and re-inspected. Left unattended and unrepaired, these cracks could have led to a catastrophic outcome for the crew on board.

Your rigorous and meticulous testing will help avert potential disasters, safeguarding the lives and missions of our Naval fleets.

Quote

You’re stepping out of your comfort zone, you’re diving into something different, and it allows you to explore new ventures.”

Deven
Training Student, ATDM

Is non-destructive testing right for you?

Do you want an impactful career where you use cutting-edge technology to apply your exceptional examination skills to safeguard the foundation and integrity of the next generation of military submarines?

Non-destructive testing could be the perfect opportunity for you.

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Put the strongest to the test

Leave no surface uninspected

Ensure the strength of our submarines

Want to start a career in non-destructive testing but not sure where to begin?

Learn how to employ advanced evaluation technologies with a range of training programs designed to equip you with the skills you need for success. Choose from a variety of training opportunities, including the Accelerated Training in Defense Manufacturing (ATDM) program, which can help you earn industry-recognized certifications in just four months.

Put your assessment skills to the ultimate test

You’ve dedicated your life to the art of assessing and your acceptance criteria are higher than anyone else’s you know. UT, MT, PT, RT, and ET aren’t just letters to you, they’re the techniques you use to certify that a material is solid through and through.

Whether you’re used to carefully assessing bridges, evaluating the integrity of pipelines, or using your critical eye in a nuclear power plant you have the talent and skill set that you can leverage to get started in a career in submarine manufacturing.

Ready to take the plunge?

Join our talent pool to connect with employers and access exciting job and training opportunities.

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