Ultrasonic Inspection R&D Engineer (KTP Associate)

Working collaboratively with NOV engineers and University of Strathclyde academics, the successful candidate will undertake a 21-month research and development programme focused on advanced phased array ultrasonic inspection of large and complex industrial components.

The role will involve the development, validation, and industrialisation of advanced ultrasonic inspection methodologies aimed at improving inspection reliability and defect detection capability across challenging geometries.

Key technical areas include:

• Development of advanced phased array ultrasonic testing parameters for complex geometries
• Investigation of ultrasonic wave propagation and inspection sensitivity
• Design, manufacture, and validation of bespoke calibration and sensitivity reference pieces
• Numerical modelling and simulation of ultrasonic inspection methods
• Experimental validation using industrial-scale components
• Development and standardisation of advanced inspection methodologies within NOV
• Knowledge transfer and capability development across NOV’s engineering and NDE teams

The successful candidate will work extensively with advanced ultrasonic inspection equipment and will have access to NOV and University of Strathclyde facilities for experimental testing and validation. The role also includes contribution to technical reports, training workshops, and dissemination activities, with opportunities for journal publications and broader technical engagement.

The project will address fundamental challenges associated with ultrasonic inspection of large-scale, geometrically complex components where conventional calibration approaches are impractical. The successful candidate will investigate ultrasonic wave propagation behaviour, inspection sensitivity, and calibration methodologies using a combination of simulation, experimental validation, and industrial testing.

The overall objective of the project is to develop robust, standardised phased array ultrasonic inspection methodologies for complex NOV components while embedding long-term inspection development capability within the company.