Hiring a Radiography (RT) Level I technician is unlike hiring for any other NDT method. The stakes are immensely higher because you are entrusting them with a source of ionizing radiation. A mistake is not just a missed flaw; it can be a serious safety event with lasting consequences.

The primary function of an RT Level I is not interpretation. It is the safe and precise execution of specific, written instructions under the supervision of a Level II or III. Therefore, your interview process must rigorously evaluate three things above all else: their unwavering commitment to safety, their grasp of fundamental RT principles, and their ability to follow procedures without deviation.

This interview kit provides a framework to assess a candidate’s readiness for the immense responsibility of an RT Level I role.

Part 1: Targeted Interview Questions

These questions are designed to reveal the candidate’s core understanding of their duties, focusing on safety as the top priority.

Category 1: Radiation Safety (Non-Negotiable)

This is the most critical area. A candidate who is weak here is not a viable hire.

1. Question: “What are the three fundamental principles of radiation protection, and can you give me a practical example of each?”
   • What to Look For: They must be able to name Time, Distance, and Shielding. A strong candidate will provide clear examples:
     • Time: “Reducing the amount of time I’m near the source.”
     • Distance: “Increasing my distance from the source, because of the inverse square law.” (Bonus points for naming the law).
     • Shielding: “Placing a dense material like lead or concrete between myself and the source.”
   • Source: This is a foundational concept enforced by regulatory bodies like the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC).
2. Question: “You are approaching a restricted radiography area and your survey meter begins to alarm. What is your immediate action?”
   • What to Look For: The only correct answer is to stop immediately, move back away from the area until the alarm ceases, and notify the radiographer in charge or the Radiation Safety Officer (RSO). Any hesitation or suggestion of “checking it out” is a major red flag.
3. Question: “What is the purpose of your personal dosimeter (e.g., film badge or TLD)? What does it measure, and what does it not do?”
   • What to Look For: They should state that it measures their accumulated radiation dose over time and is a legal record of their exposure. Critically, they must understand that it does not protect them; it is only a measurement device.

Category 2: Theoretical Knowledge

This section verifies they understood their formal classroom training, which is typically based on outlines like ASNT’s CP-105.

1. Question: “What is the primary difference between X-rays and Gamma rays?”
   • What to Look For: The correct answer relates to their origin. X-rays are generated by an electronic tube, and Gamma rays are emitted from the nucleus of a radioactive isotope.
2. Question: “What is an Image Quality Indicator, or IQI? Why is it placed on the part during a shot?”
   • What to Look For: They should explain that an IQI (also called a penetrameter) is a device with known features (like specific wire thicknesses or holes) that is placed on the part to verify the sensitivity and quality of the radiographic technique. It proves the procedure was capable of detecting flaws of a certain size. ASTM E1025 and E747 are common standards for IQI design and use.

Category 3: Procedural Adherence

This is the core function of a Level I. According to SNT-TC-1A, they must follow specific work instructions.

1. Question: “The written procedure calls for a 3-minute exposure time. After developing the film, you find it’s too light (underexposed). What should you do?”
   • What to Look For: The only acceptable answer for a Level I is: “I would show the film to my supervising Level II or III and report the issue.” They should not suggest changing the exposure time or technique on their own. This question directly tests their understanding of the limits of their role.
2. Question: “Why is it critical to accurately fill out the shot log for every exposure you make?”
   • What to Look For: A good answer will mention safety, traceability, and quality. The shot log provides a legal, auditable record that the source was properly controlled, and it documents the specific technique parameters used for that inspection.

A rigorous interview protects your team and your company. Find pre-screened, qualified candidates on NDT-Jobs.com.

Part 2: The Hands-On Practical Screen

This practical test is essential to confirm a candidate can safely perform the basic tasks of the job. It must be administered by a qualified Level II or RSO in a controlled and safe environment, possibly using a training source.

Setup:

• Equipment: A radiography camera (or training equivalent), survey meter, dosimeter, a simple test part (e.g., a 1-inch thick weld coupon), film, lead numbers, and an IQI.
• Procedure: A clear, one-page, step-by-step procedure for setting up a single shot.

The Task (Under 100% Supervision):

1. Safety Checks: “Following the procedure, please perform the required pre-shot safety checks on this equipment.”
2. Shot Setup: “Using the procedure, please set up the shot for this test part. Place the film, the lead identification numbers, and the IQI as instructed.”
3. Simulated Exposure: Walk them through the steps of a simulated exposure, focusing on their use of the survey meter and their understanding of the restricted area boundaries.
4. Film Processing: “Now, please process this film according to the steps in the procedure.” (If applicable).

What to Look For During the Practical:

• SAFETY FIRST (Pass/Fail): Do they handle their survey meter correctly and use it at every required step? Do they treat the radiography device with caution and respect? Is their dosimetry properly placed? Any failure in this area should immediately end the practical.
• Procedural Adherence: Do they read and follow every single step of the written procedure, or do they try to work from memory? For a Level I, meticulous adherence to the written word is the most desirable trait. Did they place the IQI on the source side as is standard practice unless specified otherwise?
• Attention to Detail: Are their actions precise? Is the film placed correctly? Are the lead numbers clear and in the right location?
• Coachability: If you provide a correction, how do they react? Are they open to learning and respectful of the guidance?

Hiring an RT Level I is a matter of profound trust. By using this structured interview kit, you can move beyond the certificate and verify that you are hiring a technician with the safety-first attitude and procedural discipline required to be a successful and, above all, safe member of your team.

Ready to build a safe and competent radiography team? Post your job on NDT-Jobs.com today!