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Northrop Grumman · 1 day ago

Sr Principal NDT Engineer

Elk River, MN

Full-time

Onsite

Senior Level, Lead/Staff

$123K/yr - $185K/yr

8+ years exp

Northrop Grumman is a leader in technological advancements and is seeking an experienced Non-Destructive Test Engineer for their Armament Systems Division in Elk River, MN. The role involves utilizing radiographic technologies for inspection services, ensuring compliance with standards, and supporting various NDT-related projects.

AerospaceData IntegrationManufacturingRemote SensingSecurity

Growth Opportunities

Responsibilities

Obtain and maintain a minimum Level II certification in the radiography inspection method which includes formal classroom training, on-the-job training, and written and practical exams for the method and level. Must complete retesting at specified intervals to retain certifications

Perform nondestructive inspections using Digital Radiography (DR) and Computed Tomography (CT) in accordance with approved procedures, techniques, applicable specifications, and assigned certification-level authority

Set up, calibrate, and operate DR and CT inspection systems, including X-ray sources, detectors, manipulators, fixtures, and associated software, to ensure inspections meet required image quality, sensitivity, and coverage requirements

Interpret and evaluate DR and CT inspection data to determine conformance to applicable acceptance criteria, drawings, and specifications, within the scope of certification held

Verify inspection readiness by confirming system performance checks, calibration status, reference standards, image quality indicators (IQIs), and technique parameters are properly established prior to inspection

Generate accurate, complete, and traceable inspection records and reports, ensuring inspection parameters, results, and observations are documented in accordance with internal procedures and customer requirements

Maintain control of inspection data, images, and records, ensuring proper storage, security, configuration control, and traceability of digital inspection files

Ensure all inspection activities comply with applicable codes, standards, written practices, and specifications (e.g., Internal, NAS410, ASTM, customer-specific requirements)

Perform routine system checks, basic troubleshooting, and preventive maintenance activities within assigned authorities; escalate equipment issues, anomalies, or system limitations to appropriate technical, engineering, or Level III personnel

Adhere to all radiation safety, environmental, and workplace safety requirements, including proper use of shielding, interlocks, monitoring devices, and controlled areas

Support internal, customer, and regulatory audits by providing inspection records, technical explanations of inspection methods, and demonstrations of compliance, as appropriate to certification level

Assist the Responsible Level III (RL3) with other NDT-related technical projects, including but not limited to, support for Ultrasonic Testing (UT) and Eddy Current Testing (ET) systems. Support activities may include equipment setup, fixture installation, system verification checks, trial inspections, data collection support, and documentation, performed under RL3 direction and oversight

Support the development, setup, evaluation, and improvement of automated or semi-automated NDT inspection systems (including UT and ET), providing technical and operational assistance without performing independent inspections outside of certified methods

Assist in the design, development, and implementation of DR and CT inspection fixtures, including fixtures used for multi-part inspections and fixtures used to hold parts at specific orientations or angles to support CT scanning and image quality requirements

Operate and maintain additive manufacturing (3D printing) equipment used to fabricate inspection fixtures; provide practical technical input on fixture design to ensure inspection stability, repeatability, and effectiveness. CAD-based fixture design may be utilized when available but is not required

Assist in the review, optimization, and continuous improvement of inspection techniques, work instructions, and inspection workflows under the guidance of the RL3 or engineering authority

Provide technical guidance and on-the-job training to Level I and Level II personnel, as appropriate to certification level

Participate in continuous improvement activities related to inspection quality, defect detection capability, system reliability, automation effectiveness, and data integrity

Author inspection procedures, technique sheets, and inspection instructions in accordance with applicable standards and written practices

Review and approve inspection techniques, acceptance criteria, and system performance requirements for assigned NDT methods

Provide technical authority and oversight for NDT operations, including support for audits, certifications, technical reviews, and inspection disposition

Support NDT capability assessments, system qualifications, and supplier technical evaluations, as assigned

Qualification

Radiography Level 2 certificationComputed Tomography experienceUltrasonic Testing knowledgeEddy Current Testing knowledgeBachelor's Degree in STEMCAD software proficiencyTechnical guidanceContinuous improvementCustomer service excellence