Introduction

Non-destructive testing has now become one of the most highly regarded fields in a wide range of industries, including oil & gas, construction, aviation, manufacturing, power plants, automobile industry and marine engineering. Although there are several certifications that can be attained for non-destructive testing, ASNT Level II certification stands out to be the most prestigious.

One frequently asked question by candidates pursuing NDT certification programs is:

"Does ASNT Level II alone suffice for getting employed?"

And the answer is yes. ASNT Level II certification will definitely enhance your chances of employment considerably. Nonetheless, familiarizing yourself with the available career options and demands within the industry will certainly increase your advantage.

What Does ASNT Level II Certification Entail?

American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) is an internationally acclaimed organization within the field of NDT. As NDT Level II certification is an indication that an individual possesses sufficient knowledge and skills to:

• Calibrate testing equipment
• Undertake testing processes independently
• Evaluate test results
• Generate inspection reports
• Comply with industry standards

The common ASNT Level II certification methods are:

• Ultrasonic Testing (UT)
• Radiographic Testing (RT)
• Magnetic Particle Testing (MT)
• Liquid Penetrant Testing (PT)
• Visual Testing (VT)

These methods are much sought after in various industries, where there is a requirement of quality, safety, and reliability.

Can You Get a Job with ASNT Level II Certification?

Yes, several organizations hire people who hold ASNT Level II certification.

Actually, ASNT Level II certification is considered the basic professional qualification required in most cases of inspection and quality assurance. This is due to the fact that the certified individual is capable of carrying out inspections independently.

Some of the job openings for ASNT Level II certified individuals are:

• Inspection Technician
• NDT Technician
• Quality Control Inspector
• Maintenance Inspection
• Manufacturing Quality Assurance
• Shutdown & Turnaround Inspection

This certification is good enough for entry-level jobs for fresher students. For experienced persons, it becomes a stepping stone for career advancement and more pay.

Career Options Following ASNT Level II

1. NDT Technician

This is among the most common career choices for an ASNT Level II graduate.

Roles include:

• Inspection via NDT methodologies
• Detection of flaws/discontinuity
• Recording of inspection results
• Ensuring compliance with industry standards

Industries employing NDT technicians:

• Oil & Gas
• Petrochemical
• Manufacturing
• Marine
• Aerospace
• Construction

2. Quality Control Inspector

Quality Control Inspectors check the quality standards of the goods and structures prior to their deployment or installation.

Roles include:

• Inspections of materials
• Inspections of welds
• Quality checks of goods/structures
• Compliance reporting

It involves NDT inspection combined with quality control measures, therefore ASNT Level II graduates are highly suitable for this profession.

3. Welding Inspector Assistant

A number of firms employ ASNT-certified individuals for welding inspection purposes.

Roles include:

• Inspections of weld quality
• Visual inspections
• Documentation of the process
• Supportive roles for weld inspectors

This may lead to advanced certification such as CSWIP and AWS Certified Welding Inspector.

4. Oil and Gas Inspector Technician

The oil and gas industry continues to be a major employer of NDT inspectors globally.

Inspection tasks include:

• Pipe lines
• Pressure vessels
• Storage tanks
• Off-shore structures
• Refinery machinery

The ASNT Level II qualification can be an important job requirement here.

5. Shutdown and Turnaround Inspector

Shutdowns and turnaround activities occur periodically in industrial facilities for maintenance and inspections.

NDT inspectors are brought in for these projects to:

• Conduct equipment inspections
• Identify any defects
• Guarantee safe operation of plant
• Preparation of inspection reports

Such projects generally provide good short term employment opportunities.

Sectors Which Employ ASNT Level II Certified Personnel

Oil & Gas Sector

One of the most lucrative industry sectors for NDT personnel.

Aerospace Sector

Aerospace companies need NDT certified inspectors to check compliance and safety.

Manufacturing Sector

Facilities apply NDT inspection methodologies to ensure quality control.

Marine Sector

The shipbuilding and offshore industries heavily utilize NDT inspection processes.

Power Plants

Thermal, nuclear, and renewable energy plants hire NDT inspectors to examine equipment integrity.

Construction and Infrastructure

In order to conduct inspections and ensure quality, bridges, buildings, pipelines, and other infrastructures employ NDT professionals.

Salaries Expected With ASNT Level II Certification

Determined by:

• Amount of experience
• Methods of NDT certification
• Industry sector
• Location
• Certifications

For the most part, ASNT certified Level II technicians receive much higher pay than non-certified technicians.

Candidates who have several Level II certifications (UT, RT, MT, PT, VT) get higher pay packages and better job opportunities, especially when working internationally.

How To Get Better Job Prospects After ASNT Level II

Gaining Hands-On Experience

Practical experience always helps candidates land better jobs.

Learning Various Methods of NDT Testing

Technicians who know multiple testing techniques always receive preference.

Improving Reporting Skills

Documentation is key in such professions.

Opting For Higher-Level Certification Programs

Further certification includes:

• ASNT Level III
• CSWIP Welding Inspector
• API Certifications
• AWS Certifications

Acquiring Industry Knowledge

It is also helpful if a candidate knows about industrial standards and regulations.

Why Choose IIT NDT for ASNT Level II Certification Course?

IIT NDT provides industry-oriented training that prepares candidates for inspection jobs.

In our training programs, you will get access to:

• Expert training
• Practical hands-on training
• Curriculum designed by the industry
• Career assistance
• Training in different types of NDT inspections
• Job-centric training program

We assist professionals to develop skills and gain confidence to excel in their chosen field of study, i.e., Non-Destructive Testing.

Conclusion

Being ASNT certified at Level II is sufficient for you to pursue a successful career in NDT. The certification is globally recognized and is the first step towards getting job offers from several industries like Oil & Gas Industry, Manufacturing, Aerospace, Marine, Construction, Power Generation, etc.

While just getting yourself certified may help you land a few jobs, having experience along with knowledge in different types of NDT methods will give you an advantage over other individuals who lack practical experience.

For those who wish to make their career in NDT, we recommend obtaining ASNT Level II certification from IIT NDT.