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Nondestructive Testing
Federal Wage Grade position performing nondestructive testing (NDT) including ultrasonic, radiographic, magnetic particle, and dye penetrant inspection of materials at federal facilities and defense installations.
What WG-3705 pays
Federal Wage System pay is set by local prevailing wage surveys, so it moves with the wage area rather than a national table.
Wage Grade rates are published per wage area rather than nationally, so the number that matters is the one for the installation you are applying to.
Source: DoD Civilian Personnel Advisory Service wage schedules.
Qualification requirements
OPM's standard for WG-3705, as written.
The qualification standard for this series is not loaded yet.
What this means if you served
- Write the duties, not the billet. OPM credits military experience on the work performed, and does not use rank or pay to judge specialized experience.
- Put the training and certifications you earned in service on the page. They count here.
- Claim your veterans preference on the application. It is not applied for you.
- No positive education requirement here, so qualifying experience can stand in for the education.
How to qualify for WG-3705
1Review Trade/Craft Requirements
WG positions require demonstrated skill in a specific trade or craft. Review the job announcement for required certifications, licenses, and hands-on experience.
2Document Your Experience
WG positions are experience-based, not grade-based. Document your years of hands-on trade experience, apprenticeships completed, and journeyman status if applicable.
3Gather Credentials
Collect your DD-214, trade certifications (welding, electrical, HVAC, etc.), apprenticeship completion certificates, and any specialized licenses required for your trade.
4Build Your Federal Resume
Two pages, the same USAJOBS limit that has applied since 27 September 2025. Lead with hands-on trade experience: the tools and equipment you ran, safety training, the projects you finished, and hours worked per week.
5Apply on USAJOBS
Search for WG positions in your trade specialty, carefully answer assessment questions about your skill level and experience, and submit before the closing date.
Military jobs that map to this series
Nondestructive Inspection
GS-3705 Nondestructive Testing is the direct federal home series for 2A7X2. NAS-410 method certifications and inspection experience qualify without translation.
Skills that carry over: NDT methods, Radiographic interpretation, Inspection to specification, Disposition documentation.
Usually opens at: GS-7, GS-9, GS-11.
Allied Trades Specialist
WG-3705 Nondestructive Testing is an adjacent inspection path for 91Es who want to move from fabricating welds to inspecting them, with ASNT credentials.
Skills that carry over: Weld inspection, Visual and dimensional inspection, Reading specifications, Quality documentation.
Usually opens at: WG-8, WG-9, WG-10.
Precision Weapons Repairer/Technician
WG-3705 Nondestructive Testing is an adjacent path for inspecting weapons components and machined parts for hidden defects, common at arsenals and depots.
Skills that carry over: Component inspection, Defect detection, Test method application, Documentation.
Usually opens at: WG-8, WG-10, WG-11.
Your record can qualify you even when your code is not on this list. The crosswalk is a starting point, not the gate.
Typical duties
- Perform skilled trade work in accordance with established standards, specifications, and safety procedures
- Operate, maintain, and repair trade-specific equipment, tools, and machinery
- Read and interpret blueprints, technical manuals, work orders, and specifications
- Inspect completed work for quality, accuracy, and compliance with requirements
- Maintain tools, equipment, and work areas in clean, safe, and operational condition
- Document work performed including time, materials used, and completion status
- Coordinate with supervisors and other trades on project requirements and schedules
- Follow all safety protocols including proper use of PPE and hazardous material handling
- Train and assist lower-grade workers in trade techniques and procedures
- Requisition materials, parts, and supplies needed to complete assigned work
Key competencies
Technical Knowledge
Understanding of trade-specific tools, equipment, materials, and techniques required for the position
Manual Dexterity
Physical coordination and skill in using hands and tools to perform precise work
Safety Awareness
Knowledge of workplace safety procedures, OSHA standards, and proper use of personal protective equipment
Problem Solving
Ability to diagnose issues, troubleshoot problems, and determine effective repair solutions
Quality Control
Attention to detail ensuring work meets specifications, standards, and quality requirements
Blueprint Reading
Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, schematics, diagrams, and work orders
Equipment Operation
Proficiency in operating trade-specific machinery, power tools, and specialized equipment
Maintenance Procedures
Knowledge of preventive maintenance, inspection protocols, and equipment care
Communication
Ability to communicate effectively with supervisors, coworkers, and customers about work status
Adaptability
Flexibility to work in various conditions and adjust to changing priorities and assignments
Words the announcement will use
Use the ones your record actually supports. A rater is matching your experience against the specialized experience statement, and a keyword with nothing behind it does not survive that.
Questions about WG-3705
What is a Nondestructive Tester?
A Nondestructive Tester (WG-3705) performs NDT inspections including ultrasonic, radiographic, magnetic particle, dye penetrant, and eddy current testing of materials at federal facilities and defense installations. They detect defects in critical components without damaging them.
How much does a federal NDT Technician make?
Federal NDT Technicians (WG-3705) are paid under the Federal Wage System with premium rates for this specialized skill. Journeyman wages (WG-10/12) typically range $30-$48 per hour depending on locality and certifications. Annual earnings range $62,000-$100,000.
What are the requirements for WG-3705 positions?
WG-3705 requires certification in NDT methods (ASNT Level II typically). Qualifications include proficiency in ultrasonic, radiographic, magnetic particle, liquid penetrant, or eddy current testing; interpreting test results; documenting findings; and following radiation safety protocols.
Can military experience substitute for education in WG-3705?
Yes, military NDT experience directly qualifies. Air Force 2A7X2 (NDI), Navy NDT technicians, and Army ordnance inspectors with NDT training provide exactly the skills needed. Military NDT certifications often transfer to ASNT civilian credentials with additional testing.
What is the career progression for Nondestructive Testing?
NDT Technicians progress through certification levels (Level I, II, III) with pay increases. Senior positions include NDT Level III certification, inspection program management, or quality assurance roles. This specialized field offers excellent pay and advancement opportunities.
How do I apply for WG-3705 jobs on USAJOBS?
Search USAJOBS for 'Nondestructive Testing' or 'NDT' or 'NDI' or series '3705.' Positions exist at aircraft depots, shipyards, and maintenance facilities. List your certifications, methods proficiency, and inspection experience. Veterans with NDT training receive strong preference.
Ready to apply for WG-3705?
A rater matches your record against the announcement's specialized experience statement, inside two pages. BMR writes that shape from your own experience: competency headers, real scope, hours per week, and the supervisor detail the rater checks.