ETCH and FPI LEVEL III TECHNICIAN

Located in Savannah, GA

Salary: $99k-$120k

Position Overview

Join a team dedicated to protecting the world's most critical assets through innovation, quality, and technical excellence. Our organization is committed to maximizing safety, reliability, and operational performance by delivering high-quality inspection and specialized process solutions to the aerospace and defense industries.

We are seeking an experienced Etch & FPI Level III Technician to provide technical leadership and oversight of chemical etching and Fluorescent Penetrant Inspection (FPI/PT) processes. This individual will serve as the technical authority for these processes, ensuring compliance with aerospace customer specifications, NADCAP, NAS 410, AS9100, ASTM E1417, and applicable OEM requirements.

The ideal candidate will have extensive aerospace inspection experience, strong knowledge of chemical etching processes, and the ability to develop procedures, certify personnel, support audits, and maintain the highest standards of quality and process integrity.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as the designated Level III authority for Fluorescent Penetrant Inspection (FPI/PT) and chemical etching processes.
• Interpret applicable codes, standards, specifications, and customer requirements.
• Develop, review, approve, and maintain NDT procedures, techniques, work instructions, and process controls.
• Train, examine, qualify, and certify Level I and Level II personnel in accordance with NAS 410 or the applicable company written practice.
• Oversee daily process controls, solution analysis and adjustments, etch rate verification, equipment calibration, and system performance checks.
• Support and lead NADCAP, customer, AS9100, and internal audits.
• Investigate audit findings and implement corrective and preventive actions.
• Provide technical guidance on indication evaluation, inspection techniques, and process optimization.
• Mentor and support inspectors, technicians, and production personnel.
• Support production inspections as needed and evaluate results against applicable acceptance criteria.
• Work closely with Quality, Operations, Engineering, and customers to resolve technical issues.
• Maintain certification records, training documentation, and process qualification records.
• Identify opportunities for continuous improvement in quality, productivity, safety, and regulatory compliance.
• Ensure compliance with environmental, safety, and hazardous material handling requirements.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; an Associate's Degree in NDT, materials science, engineering, or a related technical field is preferred.
• Current NAS 410 or equivalent ASNT Level III certification in Penetrant Testing (PT/FPI).
• Candidates currently certified at Level II may be considered if they have documented experience and the ability to obtain Level III certification within an established timeframe.
• Minimum of 5 years of hands-on NDT experience in FPI/PT, preferably within the aerospace or defense industry.
• At least 2–3 years of experience in a Level II or supervisory capacity.
• Documented experience with chemical etching processes, including pre-penetrant etch, nital/temper etch, passivation, or related processes.
• Knowledge of solution chemistry, etch rates, tank maintenance, and process controls.
• Strong understanding of NAS 410, ASTM E1417, AS9100, NADCAP requirements, and applicable OEM/customer specifications.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, technical documents, and customer specifications.
• Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and experience maintaining certification and process documentation.
• Must meet NAS 410 vision acuity and color perception requirements, including annual examinations.
• Must be eligible to meet applicable aerospace and defense contractual requirements, including ITAR compliance and any necessary security clearances.
• Ability to work flexible shifts and support production and audit requirements as needed.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and work in a laboratory or manufacturing environment while wearing appropriate PPE.

Preferred Qualifications

• Additional NDT Level II or Level III certifications, such as MT, UT, VT, or RT.
• Previous experience serving as a Responsible Level III or in personnel certification and auditing roles.
• Experience supporting aerospace manufacturers, OEMs, aerospace primes, MRO facilities, or casting and forging suppliers.
• Familiarity with investment castings, aerospace engine components, and critical machined parts.
• Experience with NADCAP chemical processing special processes, including AC7108 series requirements or equivalent.
• Knowledge of Lean manufacturing, continuous improvement, and statistical process control.
• Previous supervisory, mentoring, or training experience in an NDT or special process environment.
• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in a related technical discipline.
• Experience with multi-site process standardization and NDT written practices.

Additional Requirements

• Successful completion of pre-employment background screening and drug/alcohol testing.
• Ability to complete any required medical evaluations.
• Maintain active certifications through continuing education, documented experience, and recertification examinations as required.
• Commitment to maintaining the highest standards of safety, quality, and regulatory compliance.

Why Join Our Team?

This is an opportunity to take on a key technical leadership role within the aerospace industry. You will play an important part in maintaining product integrity, supporting critical manufacturing processes, developing technical talent, and ensuring that aerospace components meet the industry's highest quality and safety standards.

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