As of August 01, 2026, the average salary for a NDT Technician III in the United States is $74,600 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $36.
However, a NDT Technician III's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A NDT Technician III's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location, and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a NDT Technician III's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| NDT Technician I | 0-1 years | $56,785 |
| NDT Technician II | 1-3 years | $63,955 |
| NDT Technician III | 3-5 years | $74,594 |
| NDT Technician IV | 5-7 years | $89,404 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract NDT Technician IIIs. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
NDT Technician III salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $84,135. While startup companies pay approximate $71,256.
| Company Size | Employees | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Startup | 1~50 | $71,256 |
| Growth Stage | 51~500 | $75,333 |
| Established | 501~5000 | $81,270 |
| Enterprise | 5000+ | $84,135 |
For NDT Technician III roles, the industry you choose can affect earning potential by as much as 85% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the Biotechnology and Software & Networking sectors offer the strongest compensation, at 30% above the average. In contrast, NDT Technician positions in Transportation or Edu., Gov't. & Nonprofit typically offer lower base pay, as these industries often view NDT Technician III as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.
| Industry Sector | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Rate | Pay vs.Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biotechnology | $96,980 | $47.0 | 30% |
| Software & Networking | $93,250 | $45.0 | 25% |
| Pharmaceuticals | $89,520 | $43.0 | 20% |
| Energy & Utilities | $85,790 | $41.0 | 15% |
| Aerospace & Defense | $82,060 | $39.0 | 10% |
Understanding how a NDT Technician III's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on August 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a NDT Technician III, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| NDT Technician IV | $89,500 | 20% |
| Production Test Engineering Supervisor | $81,400 | 9% |
Salaries for a NDT Technician III can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $63,901 in 2023 to around $63,212 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of NDT Technician III salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
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| 2023 | $63,901 |
| 2024 | $63,776 |
| 2025 | $63,212 |
| 2026 |
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| 2027 |
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The Biotechnology industry offers the highest average compensation for NDT Technician III roles, with salaries approximately 30% above the market median.
The best certifications for NDT Technicians include: 1) NDT-Radiographic Film Interpretation of Pipeline Welds, 2) Certified Welding Inspector (CWI), 3) Aboveground Storage Tanks Inspector Certification (API), 4) NACE Coating Inspector Program (CIP), and 5) Certified Penetration Testing Professional (CPENT). NDT Technicians can expect salaries ranging from $69,800 to $84,100, with a median of $76,300.
NDT Level III refers to a certification by the American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) that validates personnel with advanced knowledge of the technical principles of nondestructive testing (NDT). NDT Level III technicians typically earn between $69,800 and $84,100, with a median salary of $76,300, reflecting their expertise in performing, witnessing, and evaluating tests.
Yes, you can make money as an NDT technician. Daily tasks contribute to safety, and the salary ranges from a minimum of $69,800 to a maximum of $84,100 annually, with a mid-salary of $76,300. Income can vary based on hours worked and overtime, making it a rewarding career both financially and in terms of impact.
An NDT Level 3 engineer is a highly qualified professional who has achieved certification in one or more Non-Destructive Testing methods as per ISO 9712. This role typically requires prior experience as an ISO 9712 Level 2 specialist. Salaries for NDT Technicians range from $69,800 to $84,100, with a median salary of $76,300, reflecting the expertise and responsibilities associated with this position.
The highest paid NDT Technician can earn up to $84,100 annually. The salary range for this position typically starts at a minimum of $69,800, with a mid-level salary around $76,300. This reflects the varying levels of experience and expertise within the field.
A NDT Technician in the US earns between $69,800 and $84,100 annually, with a median salary of $76,300. This range reflects the varying levels of experience and expertise in the field.
Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
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