NDT Equipment Engineer

Howmet Aerospace•Whitehall, MI

13d

About The Position

This role focuses on the NDT Equipment Engineer position, which involves designing, configuring, and optimizing Automated Defect Review (ADR) workflows using various NDT modalities. The engineer will integrate these systems with production lines and automation hardware, analyze inspection data, and drive process improvements. Key responsibilities include leading investigations into defect trends and equipment failures, validating inspection systems, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and maintaining technical documentation. The role also emphasizes continuous improvement through Lean, Six Sigma, and Industry 4.0 initiatives, focusing on automation and data-driven quality.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Industrial, Manufacturing Engineering, Automation Engineering, NDT Technology, or related field
3+ years of manufacturing engineering experience, preferably in automotive or other medium to high‑volume production environments
Hands on experience with NDT inspection systems and ADR technologies
Proficiency with programming robotics and industrial automation hardware

Nice To Haves

NDT experience in one or more modalities.
Experience with AI‑based defect classification or machine‑learning inspection platforms.
Familiarity with digital radiography, phased‑array UT, or advanced NDT technologies.
Experience integrating ADR systems with MES/SCADA.
Certifications in Lean, Six Sigma, or automation technologies.
Experience supporting launch environments or new model introductions.

Responsibilities

Design, configure, and optimize ADR workflows using NDT modalities such as UT, RT, EC, MT, PT, or thermography.
Implement automated defect classification, signal processing, and review logic.
Integrate ADR systems with robotics, PLCs, MES, SCADA, and automotive production lines.
Ensure seamless communication between inspection hardware, automation controllers, and quality databases.
Analyze NDT data trends, defect signatures, and system performance.
Develop algorithms or rulesets to improve detection accuracy and reduce false positives.
Identify bottlenecks in inspection and automation workflows.
Implement improvements that increase throughput, reduce scrap, and enhance repeatability.
Lead investigations into defect trends, equipment failures, and process deviations using structured problem‑solving methodologies.
Conduct validation, calibration, and capability studies for ADR and NDT systems to ensure compliance with automotive quality standards.
Partner with Quality, Production, Maintenance, and NDT Level II/III personnel to ensure inspection systems meet operational and regulatory requirements.
Maintain technical documentation, inspection procedures, and compliance records aligned with automotive and NDT standards.
Drive initiatives aligned with Lean, Six Sigma, and Industry 4.0, focusing on automation, digital inspection, and data‑driven quality.