Level III Technician – Etch & FPI

MISTRAS Group•Ellabell, GA

11d•Onsite

About The Position

Serve as the designated Level III authority for FPI (PT) and etch processes; interpret codes, standards, specifications, and customer requirements. Develop, review, approve, and maintain NDT procedures, techniques, work instructions, and process controls for FPI and chemical etch operations. Qualify, train, examine, and certify Level I and Level II personnel in accordance with NAS 410 (or company written practice) and applicable etch qualification standards (e.g., ARP 1923 or equivalent). Oversee daily process controls, solution analysis/adjustment, etch rate verification (weight-loss method), equipment calibration, and system performance checks. Support and lead NADCAP, customer, AS9100, and internal audits; address findings and drive corrective actions. Provide technical guidance on indication evaluation, technique selection, and process optimization; mentor inspectors and processors. Support production inspection as needed, interpret results against acceptance criteria, and interface with Quality, Engineering, and customers. Maintain certification records, training documentation, and process qualification data. Identify continuous improvement opportunities related to quality, throughput, safety, and compliance. Ensure adherence to safety, environmental, and hazardous materials handling requirements (including HAZWOPER awareness as applicable).

Requirements

High school diploma or GED required; Associate’s degree in NDT, materials science, engineering, or related technical field preferred.
Current NAS 410 (or equivalent ASNT) Level III certification in Penetrant Testing (PT/FPI). Candidates currently certified Level II with documented experience and the ability to obtain Level III certification within a defined period may be considered.
Minimum 5 years of hands-on NDT experience in FPI/PT, with significant aerospace or defense industry experience preferred; at least 2–3 years in a Level II or supervisory capacity.
Documented experience with chemical etch processes (pre-penetrant etch, nital/temper etch, passivation, or related special processes) and associated controls (solution chemistry, etch rates, tank maintenance).
Strong working knowledge of NAS 410, ASTM E1417, AS9100, NADCAP requirements for NDT and chemical processing, and relevant OEM/customer specifications.
Ability to interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and technical documents.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications; experience maintaining certification and process documentation.
Must meet vision acuity and color perception requirements per NAS 410 (annual examination).
U.S. citizenship or permanent residency may be required due to aerospace/defense contractual obligations; ability to obtain any necessary clearances or ITAR compliance.
Willingness to work flexible shifts, overtime, and support audit/production needs as required.
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work in a laboratory/shop environment with appropriate PPE.
Pass pre-employment background check, drug screen, and any required medical evaluations.
Maintain active certifications through continuing education, experience, and recertification exams as required.
Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and ability to communicate effectively with technicians, engineers, quality personnel, auditors, and customers.

Nice To Haves

Additional NDT Level II or Level III certifications (e.g., MT, UT, VT, RT).
Prior experience as a Responsible Level III or in personnel certification/auditing roles.
Direct experience supporting aerospace primes, MRO, or casting/forging suppliers; familiarity with investment castings or engine components.
Experience with chemical processing special processes under NADCAP (AC7108 series or equivalent).
Knowledge of Lean, continuous improvement, or statistical process control tools.
Supervisory or training experience in an NDT or special process environment.
Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in a related technical discipline.

Responsibilities

Serve as the designated Level III authority for FPI (PT) and etch processes; interpret codes, standards, specifications, and customer requirements.
Develop, review, approve, and maintain NDT procedures, techniques, work instructions, and process controls for FPI and chemical etch operations.
Qualify, train, examine, and certify Level I and Level II personnel in accordance with NAS 410 (or company written practice) and applicable etch qualification standards (e.g., ARP 1923 or equivalent).
Oversee daily process controls, solution analysis/adjustment, etch rate verification (weight-loss method), equipment calibration, and system performance checks.
Support and lead NADCAP, customer, AS9100, and internal audits; address findings and drive corrective actions.
Provide technical guidance on indication evaluation, technique selection, and process optimization; mentor inspectors and processors.
Support production inspection as needed, interpret results against acceptance criteria, and interface with Quality, Engineering, and customers.
Maintain certification records, training documentation, and process qualification data.
Identify continuous improvement opportunities related to quality, throughput, safety, and compliance.
Ensure adherence to safety, environmental, and hazardous materials handling requirements (including HAZWOPER awareness as applicable).