NDE PRINCIPAL LEVEL III — NUCLEAR
About the Role
We are seeking an experienced NDE Principal Level III to provide day-to-day technical leadership and programmatic administration of our Nuclear NDE program. As the designated NDE Lead, you will own technical oversight of all procedures, applications, training, and personnel certifications for your support team, with particular emphasis on the ultrasonic (UT) method — including phased array (PAUT) and encoded/automated examination techniques.
This role is ideal for a recognized subject matter expert who thrives at the intersection of hands-on technical work, code compliance, and people development in the nuclear power generation industry.
What You'll Do
Technical Leadership
Serve as the recognized technical subject matter expert — internally and externally — for nuclear NDE applications
Lead the development, assessment, and qualification of examination techniques and procedures, including PAUT and automated/encoded UT
Interpret and implement applicable codes and regulations, including ASME Section V and Section XI
Prepare and perform quality control of project technical documentation — procedures, examination reports, and personnel and equipment records
Evaluate and integrate new NDE technologies into our service offerings, interfacing directly with the NDE Applications Development team
Program & Certification Management
Oversee and manage the ASME Section XI–compliant qualification and certification program for nuclear NDE personnel
Maintain personnel certification records; conduct re-qualification and certification of personnel for review and approval by the Certification Officer
Ensure all training, certifications, and procedures meet the requirements of the company's NDE written practice (appointment by QA per SI-NDE-10 required)
Interface with QA to ensure all procedures meet quality program requirements
People & Operations
Plan, implement, and oversee training activities as a certified NDE Instructor; train and examine Level I and Level II personnel
Build strong cross-functional relationships with other business units and collaborate regularly with fellow Principal Level IIIs on emerging NDE needs and developments
Provide technical consultation for IR&D programs, recruiting and staff development, training programs, process improvement, and equipment/services procurement
Required Qualifications
High school diploma or equivalency, with secondary education or training meeting the minimum requirements for a Level III Examiner in the ultrasonic method per the latest revision of the company's NDE written practice
6+ years of industry-related experience as a Level II/III NDE examiner
Current company and ASNT Level III certification (or industry equivalent) in the ultrasonic method
Familiarity with the EPRI Performance Demonstration Initiative (PDI) program, including relevant PDI / ASME Section XI Appendix VIII qualifications
Knowledge of and hands-on experience with automated and encoded ultrasonic testing
Preferred Qualifications
Prior experience as an NDE Lead or Principal Level III supporting nuclear outage campaigns
Knowledge of nuclear plant materials, fabrication methods, and degradation mechanisms (e.g., IGSCC, PWSCC, thermal fatigue)
Experience developing or reviewing exam report packages and data analysis workflows for reactor coolant system and Class 1/2 component examinations
- Active participation in industry training programs, trade shows, and technical conferences
The expected salary range for this role in Charlotte, NC is $141,440 to $156,000 annually, or $68 to $75 per hour. Exact pay will be commensurate with location and experience.
What We Look For
Advanced understanding of physical NDE principles and processes, with the ability to read, comprehend, and prepare technical specifications and procedures
Ethical, trustworthy, and respectful; team-oriented and professionally minded
Willing to provide on-site support of nuclear NDE projects when required, including extended work hours during outages, with flexibility to the dynamics of client scheduling
Safety-conscious and compliant with written procedures and quality practices
Work Environment
Primary responsibilities are carried out in office and/or laboratory environments, with travel required for field project support
Some assignments may involve less-than-favorable conditions, including radiological environments and physically demanding activities (heat, cold, climbing, or carrying equipment)
Some work is conducted in industrial environments requiring work at heights, on scaffolds, in high-noise areas, or near operating machinery and activities such as welding, grinding, flame cutting, or overhead loads
Equal Employment Opportunity Employer / Veterans / Disabled
Candidate information may be verified during the hiring process. Inaccurate, deceptive, or mass-generated applications may be disqualified from consideration.