Earning your Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) Level II certification in Ultrasonic Testing (UT) is a significant milestone. It proves you can work independently, interpret results, and manage inspections.[1][2] But in a field driven by technology and expertise, the best technicians are always looking forward. So, what should you learn after Level II UT to increase your value, earn more, and stay ahead of the curve?

This guide covers the most valuable advanced skills and certifications that build on your UT foundation. Mastering these techniques will not only make you a more capable inspector but will also open doors to the most demanding and rewarding jobs in the industry. For those ready to take the next step, NDT-Jobs.com is the best resource for finding opportunities that utilize these advanced skills.

1. Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing (PAUT)

PAUT is one of the most powerful and in-demand advanced NDT methods.[3] Instead of using a single-element probe, PAUT uses a multi-element probe that allows the ultrasonic beam to be electronically steered and focused. This provides more comprehensive inspections in less time.

• Why it Matters: PAUT offers superior imaging, creating detailed visual scans (A-scan, B-scan, C-scan) that are easier to interpret and document. This is critical for complex weld inspections in aerospace, power generation, and pipeline integrity.[3]
• How to Qualify: This path is for experienced Level II UT technicians. It requires significant additional training, typically 80-120 hours of combined theory and hands-on practice, followed by rigorous examinations.[4][5][6][7]

Adding a PAUT certification makes you a top-tier candidate for high-tech inspection projects.

2. Time of Flight Diffraction (TOFD)

TOFD is an advanced ultrasonic technique used almost exclusively for weld inspection.[8] It relies on the diffraction of the ultrasonic wave from the tips of a flaw, rather than a reflection. This makes it extremely accurate for detecting and sizing cracks and other weld discontinuities.[8]

• Why it Matters: TOFD is highly reliable and accurate for sizing flaws, which is essential for fitness-for-service calculations.[8] It is often used alongside PAUT to provide a complete and highly reliable inspection of critical welds.
• How to Qualify: A Level II UT certification is a prerequisite.[9][10] Qualification generally requires 40-80 hours of specialized training and significant field experience to become a certified Level 2.[8][9][10][11]

Technicians skilled in TOFD are sought after for critical manufacturing and in-service inspections where accuracy is paramount.

3. Advanced UT Shear Wave Inspection

While you learned the fundamentals of shear wave in your Level II training, mastering advanced weld inspection techniques is a specialization in itself. This involves a deeper understanding of flaw characterization, sizing techniques, and complex code interpretation (e.g., AWS D1.1, ASME).[12][13]

• Why it Matters: Many critical structural and piping welds require a high level of proficiency in manual shear wave inspection. Technicians who can accurately detect, characterize, and size discontinuities in complex geometries are always in demand.
• How to Qualify: This is an advanced course for existing Level II technicians.[14] It involves 40 hours of intensive, hands-on training focused on real-world weld samples and performance demonstration exams.[14]

Deepening your shear wave skills makes you a go-to expert for the most common and critical UT applications. When you’re ready to showcase this expertise, NDT-Jobs.com has listings from employers who value this high level of skill.

4. The Path to NDT Level III

The highest level of certification is Level III. A Level III technician is an expert who can develop procedures, interpret codes and standards, and train and certify other personnel.[1][15][16] It represents a shift from being a technician to becoming a technical authority.

• Why it Matters: A Level III certification dramatically increases your career opportunities and earning potential, opening doors to management, consulting, and training roles.[1][15][17][18] Level III salaries are consistently in the six-figure range.[19]
• How to Qualify: The path is demanding. It requires passing a comprehensive Basic exam covering multiple NDT methods and a Method-specific exam.[15][16][20][21] Candidates typically need years of documented experience as a Level II to be eligible.[15]

Pursuing your Level III certification is the ultimate step for those who want to lead in the NDT industry.

What This Means for Your Career and Pay

Investing in skills beyond your Level II UT certification has a direct impact on your career. An uncertified trainee might start in the $36k−$60k range, while a certified Level II technician can earn between $50k and $109k annually.[17]

With advanced certifications like PAUT, TOFD, or a move to Level III, top earners can command salaries well over $100,000.[18][19] These skills not only boost your pay but also provide greater job security and access to the most interesting and challenging projects. You can find many of these high-level opportunities on NDT-Jobs.com.

Your Next Steps

Your UT Level II is a license to build a fantastic career. To stay ahead, focus on continuous learning. Decide which path aligns with your goals—whether it’s mastering advanced technologies like PAUT and TOFD or pursuing the expert track to Level III.

Sources

1. ndtinspect.com
2. atslab.com
3. irclass.org
4. twitraining.com
5. twitraining.com
6. mfe-is.com
7. onlinendts.com
8. acuren.com
9. twitraining.com
10. universityofultrasonics.com
11. raimondindt.com
12. techknowserv.com
13. ndtcs.com
14. universityofultrasonics.com
15. txndt.com
16. asnt.org
17. asnt.org
18. ndtinspect.com
19. txndt.com
20. andt.co.in
21. asnt.org