About this opportunity
First Search Inc. lists this Nondestructive Testing Engineer opportunity in spring grove, Illinois. Review the employer’s description below for duties, qualifications and application requirements.
Job description
Non-Destructive Examination (NDE) Engineer
Location: Illinois
A leading U.S. manufacturer of highly engineered forged components is seeking a Non-Destructive Examination (NDE) Engineer to support and advance inspection technologies across multiple manufacturing operations. This is an outstanding opportunity for an early-career engineer who wants to combine engineering, manufacturing, quality, and advanced NDT technologies in a hands-on environment.
This role partners closely with Quality, Metallurgy, Process Engineering, Production, and certified NDT personnel to improve inspection processes, troubleshoot manufacturing challenges, introduce new technologies, and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
Responsibilities
Support and improve non-destructive testing processes including Ultrasonic Testing (UT), Magnetic Particle (MT), Liquid Penetrant (PT), and Radiographic Testing (RT)
Develop and maintain NDT procedures, work instructions, inspection techniques, and ultrasonic reference standards
Troubleshoot inspection and manufacturing issues using structured problem-solving methodologies such as 8D, Root Cause Analysis, Fishbone, and Lean principles
Evaluate and implement new inspection technologies including Phased Array UT, immersion systems, automation, and robotics
Design solutions to improve safety and ergonomics within NDT operations
Support equipment calibration, verification, documentation, and inspection readiness
Review customer specifications, engineering drawings, and acceptance criteria to determine appropriate inspection methods
Analyze inspection data and nonconformance trends to identify opportunities for process improvements
Provide technical support to Quality, Production, Engineering, Metallurgy, and NDT personnel
Assist with training and mentoring NDT technicians while supporting internal and customer quality audits
Participate in Lean, Six Sigma, 6S, and continuous improvement initiatives throughout the organization
Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or Electrical Engineering
0–5 years of engineering experience through internships, co-ops, research, senior design projects, or manufacturing
Understanding of NDT methods including UT, MT, and PT
Ability to qualify under ASNT SNT-TC-1A or ISO 9712 certification programs
Experience interpreting engineering drawings, specifications, and technical documentation
CAD experience (SolidWorks preferred)
Strong analytical, communication, and technical writing skills
Proficiency with Microsoft Office and manufacturing or quality systems
Comfortable working in both engineering offices and manufacturing environments
Preferred Experience
Hands-on experience with ultrasonic, magnetic particle, penetrant, or radiographic inspection
ASNT Level II certification (or progress toward certification)
Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or Kaizen experience
Metals, forging, steel, or heavy manufacturing experience
Experience with ERP/MRP systems, inspection reporting software, or quality management systems
Exposure to robotics or automated inspection systems
Additional Information
Manufacturing and shop floor environment
Up to 15% travel between facilities
Opportunity to work with advanced inspection technologies in a world-class metals manufacturing operation
Excellent opportunity for an engineer looking to build expertise in NDT, manufacturing engineering, and quality systems
Worksite address
spring grove, IL, 60081, US
Who can apply
Review the original listing for work authorization, qualifications and employer requirements.