Non-destructive technologies technician
Level 3 · AdvancedEngineering and manufacturing 2 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
Non-destructive technologies technicians use specialised inspection techniques to test the integrity of materials, components, and structures without causing damage, working in aerospace, oil and gas, power, and manufacturing. Apprentices qualify in methods such as ultrasonic, radiographic, magnetic particle, or dye penetrant testing. The role is critical for safety assurance in high-hazard industries and can lead to Level 3 PCN certification and senior inspector roles.
On the job
What you’ll learn
NDT methods including ultrasonic, radiographic, magnetic particle, and dye penetrant
Materials science and the types of defects NDT can detect
Relevant codes, standards, and specifications for NDT
Setting up, calibrating, and operating NDT equipment
Recording, interpreting, and reporting inspection results
Health and safety including radiation protection and confined spaces
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Prepare and inspect components using assigned NDT methods
Calibrate NDT equipment before each inspection
Identify and record indications such as cracks or voids
Compare findings against accept or reject criteria
Produce clear written inspection reports
Work safely in compliance with radiation and site safety rules
The deal
How this apprenticeship works
You earn a wage from day one. You are a paid employee, not a student. There are no tuition fees - the training is funded by your employer and the government.
About 20% is “off-the-job” training. Roughly a day a week is spent learning away from your normal duties - at a college, training provider, or online - working towards a recognised qualification.
It ends with an end-point assessment (EPA). Near the end, an independent assessor checks you can do the job to the national standard - through tests, a project, a portfolio or an interview. Pass it and you are fully qualified.
How to get there
What you need to start
Level 3 (Advanced) - roughly A-level level. Employers usually look for some GCSEs (often English & maths around grade 4/C) or a Level 2 apprenticeship first. English & maths can sometimes be finished during training.
What’s next: Can lead to a Level 4/5 (Higher) apprenticeship, or straight into the role.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
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What it’s really like
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