Head of NDT

Our client is a global NDT and inspection services provider with an aerospace-focused laboratory in Bavaria. They inspect metallic and composite parts for major aircraft and engine manufacturers. They also design and build their own robotic UT and immersion systems, so they can offer customers both the inspection equipment and the inspection service.

They are looking for a Deputy Head of NDT to support the site leader and take day-to-day technical ownership of the lab. This is a senior, hands-on role. You will act as Level 3 for the site, lead inspection and qualification work across several customer projects at once, and help shape how the lab grows.

The successful candidate will hold EN 4179 Level 2 or 3 certification in UT and have solid experience inspecting aerospace components. They will be comfortable running qualification processes, guiding inspectors and owning technical decisions.

Key responsibilities:

• Acting as deputy to the site leader and taking day-to-day responsibility for the NDT laboratory
• Acting as Level 3 for the site: procedures, written practice, technique approval and personnel qualification
• Performing and evaluating UT inspections, including immersion, contact and phased array, on metallic and composite aerospace parts
• Supporting magnetic particle testing (MT) where required
• Leading qualification processes, including Nadcap, and supporting EASA and customer audits
• Managing around 10 customer projects in parallel, from start-ups to major aerospace OEMs
• Working with the in-house development team on robotic and automated UT inspection systems
• Guiding and supporting inspectors in the lab
• Occasional visits to customer sites; around 80% of the role is lab-based

What they’re looking for:

• EN 4179 certification in UT at Level 2 or 3
• Practical UT experience in aerospace, ideally in a service provider, testing laboratory or manufacturing environment
• Experience with qualification processes and Nadcap
• Experience inspecting both metallic and composite parts
• Ability to manage several projects and priorities at once
• Good German and English (spoken and written)
• Eligibility to work on aviation and defence projects in Germany

Nice to have:

• ISO 9712 certification alongside EN 4179
• Exposure to robotic or automated inspection
• People or team leadership experience

What’s on offer:

• Competitive salary, reflecting your experience and certifications
• Company car, including private use, after 12-18 months
• A senior role with real influence, working alongside the site leader
• Work at the front of automated UT inspection in an international team
• Start date: January 2027

This role suits an experienced aerospace UT specialist who wants to step into a senior Level 3 role and help build a modern, automation-driven NDT lab.