Digital NDT Equipment Specialist

Howmet Aerospace•Whitehall, MI

12d

About The Position

Responsibilities Equipment Identification & Selection Evaluate inspection requirements for jet engine blades and vanes and determine appropriate technology, system capabilities, and configurations. Identify, assess, and compare equipment from vendors based on technical specifications, resolution, throughput, reliability, and compliance requirements. Support capital investment justifications and provide technical input for procurement decisions. Lead or support factory acceptance testing (FAT) and site acceptance testing (SAT) activities for new equipment. Vendor & Supplier Management Act as the primary technical interface with equipment manufacturers, software providers, and service vendors. Coordinate equipment demonstrations, evaluations, and proof-of-concept studies with suppliers. Review and negotiate technical requirements, specifications, and service-level agreements (SLAs). Manage vendor performance including installation, commissioning, upgrades, and ongoing service support. Equipment Qualification & Validation Develop and execute system qualification protocols in accordance with industry standards (e.g., ASTM, ISO, NADCAP, OEM requirements). Perform system performance verification, including resolution testing, geometric accuracy, contrast sensitivity, and repeatability studies. Generate qualification reports, validation documentation, and compliance records for audits and certifications. Image Reconstruction & Analysis Support defect identification such as porosity, cracks, inclusions, wall thickness variations, cooling passage blockages, and dimensional anomalies. Collaborate with NDT analysts and design engineers to define inspection acceptance criteria and measurement methods. Assist in the development of automated analysis and AI-assisted inspection tools where applicable. Process Development & Continuous Improvement Develop inspection procedures, work instructions, and best practices for aerospace components. Standardize processes across multiple systems, programs, and facilities. Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on image quality, equipment uptime, repeatability, and cycle time reduction. Participate in root cause analysis and corrective action efforts related to inspection discrepancies. Safety & Compliance Ensure compliance with all radiation safety, health, and environmental regulations. Maintain proper documentation for radiation use, dosimetry, and equipment shielding certifications. Support site radiation safety officers during inspections and audits. Promote and maintain a strong culture of safety and procedural discipline. Cross-Functional Collaboration Work closely with Manufacturing Engineering, Design Engineering, Quality, NDT Specialists, and Production teams. Provide technical consultation on inspectability, limitations, and feasibility for new designs or repair processes. Train internal personnel on equipment usage, data interpretation, and best practices. Support customer and regulatory interactions related to inspection capability.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
A minimum of 3 years of experience working with industrial CT systems
Employees must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire.
Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Physics, Materials Science, NDT, or related technical field from an accredited institution
Strong knowledge of CT principles, X-ray physics, and reconstruction algorithms
Experience inspecting complex geometries such as turbine blades, vanes, or additive-manufactured components
Familiarity with industry standards: ASTM E1441/E1570, ISO 10360, NADCAP, AS9100
Proficient in CT software platforms (e.g., VGStudio MAX, GE phoenix datos|x, Volume Graphics, or similar)
Strong data analysis, problem-solving, documentation, and technical reporting skills
Level II or Level III NDT certification (Radiography, Computed Tomography, or related method)
Experience in CT automation, robotics integration, or inline inspection systems
Knowledge of aerospace materials including superalloys and ceramic matrix composites
Experience with digital twin, CAD comparison, or advanced metrology applications
Experience with Volume Graphics Software
Deep technical expertise in CT technology and NDT methods
Vendor and project management experience
Ability to work independently and cross-functionally