A Testing Engineering Technician finds imperfections in components and parts using equipment such as ultrasound and thermal imaging
Spotting the signs of a fault, whether that’s in materials, components, welding or equipment, helps to reduce operational costs and delays. That’s because it’s better to deal with a fault before a major breakdown occurs, or too many substandard goods have been made.
Testing engineering technicians are responsible for carrying out inspections and making sure different components and materials are fit for service. They use a variety of methods including ultrasonics, radiography and infrared thermography, which detect cracks and other imperfections. You could be the technician who spots a critical fault and not only saves time and money, but also protects lives.
After gaining several years of experience you could progress to the role of team leader or supervisor. You could be responsible for maintaining high standards of inspections across a range of materials and components.
If you specialise in an industry, you could become the expert that high-profile manufacturers want to hire to advise them during their research and development programmes, as well as during their manufacturing processes.
There’s no perfect career path or ideal way into your dream job.
But if you’re interested in education and training options that could be relevant to this role, you might want to consider:
Options available after GCSEs:
Schools and colleges each have their own career guidance plan and can provide detailed information, advice, and guidance on options and next steps.
Real-life examples of this role include the inspection of batteries, engines, Formula 1 gearboxes, nuclear reactors, and other safety-critical components. You could work in a wide range of industries from aerospace to power generation, marine to railways, oil and gas to construction.
This role can also be known by some other job titles including:
Testing Engineer
Test Technician
