NDT Process Lead Full-time

Based in Congleton, Cheshire, Senior Bird Bellows was established in 1975 as a family-run operation serving the petro-chemical and gas industries. Since then, we have evolved to become one of the industry leaders in the design, development, and manufacture of pressure duct systems, flexible joints, and insulation for highly regulated industries. We serve customers in aerospace (both civil and military), nuclear, oil and gas, chemical, and pharmaceutical sectors.

About the role

We are looking for an experienced NDT Process Lead to support and develop our NDT team, overseeing X-Ray and Dye Penetrant operations within a highly regulated manufacturing environment. This role is ideally suited to a quality-focused and technically competent professional who thrives in a regulated environment and is committed to maintaining the highest standards of compliance and operational excellence. You will play a key role in ensuring NDT activities are delivered safely, efficiently, and in accordance with customer, regulatory, NADCAP, and industry requirements.

Responsibilities

• Ensure the safe, effective, and compliant operation of all NDT activities in line with business, customer, and regulatory requirements.
• Coordinate with the contracted external Level III and obtain approvals as required.
• Maintain, review, and improve NDT processes, standards, and specifications, identifying and implementing new capabilities to meet business and customer needs.
• Develop and maintain NDT competence through training, qualification, induction, and ongoing development of personnel.
• Ensure adequate skilled resource levels, capacity, and cross-functional capability to support business requirements.
• Maintain customer, regulatory, NADCAP, and NDT Merit approvals through internal and external audits, ensuring ongoing compliance with applicable standards and requirements.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives across NDT processes, personnel, and departmental performance, working collaboratively with relevant departments.
• Support the MRB process, ensuring timely management of actions and compliance with applicable requirements.
• Lead recruitment and people management activities, embedding accountability, collaboration, and company values through effective performance management.
• Promote effective communication and employee engagement through regular departmental meetings and stakeholder interaction.
• Ensure all work activities and records comply with company policies, procedures, and codes of practice.
• Support continuous improvement of NDT processes and procedures in collaboration with the Quality Team.
• Support quality audits, investigations, and engagement with external parties to maintain compliance and drive improvement.

Requirements

• NDT Level 2 in Radiography & Dye Penetrant Inspection.
• Engineering experience in aerospace or a related industry.
• Knowledgeable in metal forming processes and welding.
• Engineering drawing and specification interpretation skills.
• Basic IT skills.
• HSE considerations.
• Exposure to Nadcap requirements.
• Level 2 Maths/English.

Skills

• Technically competent with the ability to instil and maintain consistently high standards.
• Ability to work under pressure and to deadlines.
• Good interpersonal skills at all levels.
• Role model business values.
• Ability to prioritise workload and make decisions.

Desirable Qualifications

• Formal Leadership training.
• NDT Level 3 Holder or capability to achieve.

Benefits

• 4-day working week (Monday - Thursday, 36 hours).
• Excellent pension scheme.
• Life assurance.
• Access to a confidential Employee Assistance Programme.
• Regular social and wellbeing events.