An older instructor showing details on a tablet to two young apprentices in a workshop.

NDT Instructor

NDT instructors use their experience and knowledge to prepare the next generation of technicians and practitioners.


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Approximate Annual Income for NDT Instructor

$50k-$123k*

According to The ASNT Foundation Compensation Survey, the average hourly income for NDT instructors is $44/hr. Annual income varies based on hours worked per week and overtime.

Survey is based on US salaries and all rates are in US dollars.

When you’re an NDT instructor, you can work for many different types of organizations to meet crucial workforce development needs.

What Does an NDT Instructor Do?

An NDT instructor (or NDT educator) plays the crucial role of preparing the next generation of NDT practitioners. NDT instructors use their own knowledge and experience but also gather the latest information from the body of NDT knowledge, to prepare students for certifications and careers in the NDT field.

Imagine a role in which you make a difference by:

  • Mentoring new NDT practitioners

  • Creating an up-to-date and thorough training curriculum

  • Preparing students for certifications and inspections

This career offers knowledgeable NDT practitioners with a way to give back to the industry and help build the NDT workforce.

*As with any job, the salary range for NDT instructor is affected by a variety of factors including:

  • Your geographical location

  • The industry you work in

  • Your company size

  • Your years and types of experience

  • The number and variety of methods you are certified in

What Does It Mean to Be an NDT instructor?

The term NDT Instructor applies to teachers, trainers, and educators who can be found at various institutions and companies.

On this career path, you’ll typically hold a Level III certification and have experience working in the NDT field. You’ll be able to work independently to develop a training curriculum in accordance with quality standards.

As an NDT instructor, you can work for many different types of educational organizations. Consider a few examples:

Different Environments

  • Classroom

Different Organizational Structures

  • Part of educational or training teams

  • Independently as a freelance instructor

  • Within a training organization

Different Job Tasks

  • Plan and organize training programs

  • Conduct classroom and lab instruction

  • Demonstrate techniques and procedures

  • Supervise hands-on training sessions

  • Evaluate and assess trainee performance

Different Responsibilities

  • Ensure trainees understand how to find flaws and defects

  • Advise on best practices and solutions

  • Recommend improvements in training methods and materials

My students always show gratitude for the effort I put forth toward their future employment, and that is the reward. It is eternal and priceless. I know that I helped change their lives.”

Megan Davey
NDT Instructor

Essential Certifications: Meet NDT Instructor Requirements

ASNT standards-based certifications demonstrate your mastery of nondestructive testing methods and practical field experience—creating both stability and growth opportunities.

These globally recognized certifications are highly transferable—so you can take them with you as you advance or change roles and jobs.

ASNT NDT Level III

Computer-based examination for general NDT testing and specific qualifications in one or more testing methods and their related techniques.

ASNT 9712 Level III

Computer-based and practical hands-on demonstration of qualifications in NDT testing across the most in-demand methods and techniques.

A smiling man in a casual button-up shirt stands in a bright classroom environment.

What’s Next? Career Pathways for NDT Instructors

As an NDT instructor, you’re developing leadership skills and keeping up with an ever-changing technical body of knowledge.

As your experience grows, you may find yourself with options for transitioning your skills into new companies, locations, applications, or even across industries.

See where your advanced skills can lead.

NDT Manager

Develop, implement, and maintain programs, methods, and procedures to ensure that NDT inspections meet quality and safety standards.

Explore This Path

NDT Consultant

Skillfully apply your NDT knowledge and experience to solve complex issues and provide valuable services to your own business clients

Explore This Path

Elevate Your NDT Experience

ASNT is your resource, partner, and community connection throughout your NDT career.

Explore ASNT Membership
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