Launch Your Federal Trade Career: Nondestructive Test Examiner Helper at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard

If you are searching for a stable, high-paying career that blends technical diagnostic skills with hands-on industrial work, the Department of the Navy has an exceptional entry-level opening. The United States Fleet Forces Command is currently hiring a Nondestructive Test Examiner Helper (WG-05) at the historic Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in Kittery, Maine.

Offering a starting salary of $26.34 to $30.73 per hour and an incredibly clear advancement pathway to a Journeyman level (up to WG-11), this position is a premier launchpad for aspiring technicians. It represents a rare opportunity to enter a highly specialized engineering support field without requiring decades of prior experience.

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About the Agency: The Department of the Navy

The Department of the Navy represents a cornerstone of global maritime defense. Within this massive apparatus, civilian employees work side-by-side with active-duty service members to maintain, repair, and upgrade the fleet's most advanced naval assets.

Portsmouth Naval Shipyard (PNS), located in Kittery, Maine, is one of the nation's primary military shipyards. Established in 1800, PNS specializes in the overhaul, repair, and modernization of the Navy's nuclear-powered submarine fleet. Working here means joining a dedicated, highly skilled workforce where safety, patriotism, and precision craftsmanship are part of daily life. The Non-Nuclear Inspection and NDT Division (Code 135) plays a vital role at the shipyard, ensuring that every weld, plate, structural frame, and piping system on these critical vessels can withstand the crushing pressures of deep-sea operations.

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What is Nondestructive Testing (NDT)?

In the maritime and defense sectors, structural failure is not an option. Ships and submarines are subjected to extreme physical stresses. Before a vessel is deployed, its components must be thoroughly analyzed to ensure there are no microscopic cracks, voids, or material defects.

This is where Nondestructive Testing (NDT) comes in. NDT is a collection of analysis techniques used by inspectors to evaluate the properties of a material, component, or system without causing damage. Unlike destructive testing—which pulls, crushes, or breaks a material to find its limits—NDT uses advanced technologies like ultrasound, radiography, magnetic particle testing, and liquid dye penetrants to 'see' inside metals and structures.

As a Nondestructive Test Examiner Helper, you will be introduced to these high-tech inspection methods under the mentorship of seasoned Journeyman examiners.

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Job Responsibilities and Daily Duties

As an entry-level member of the NDT Inspection Branch, your primary focus will be supporting certified inspectors while absorbing the knowledge required to perform examinations independently. You will work in a fast-paced shipyard environment where structure, safety, and cleanliness are paramount.

Your primary duties will include:

• Maintaining Strict Cleanliness Standards: Preparing test surfaces and ensuring that components are completely clean of debris, paint, or rust, which is vital for getting accurate inspection results.
• Executing Assigned Support Duties: Assisting senior examiners during live tests, setting up testing parameters, and helping transport specialized diagnostics tools around the shipyard.
• Utilizing Trade Tools: Operating precision alignment equipment, measuring devices, and standard mechanical hand tools safely and effectively.
• Learning Complex Naval Systems: Developing a working knowledge of submarine layouts, hull configurations, structural systems, and piping lines to understand where and how inspections must be performed.
• Drafting Inspection Documentation: Helping prepare detailed testing records, collecting dimensional data, and communicating findings to engineering and maintenance teams to assist in repair decisions.
• Progressing Towards Journeyman Status: Actively studying training materials and safety regulations to transition from closely supervised tasks to independent operations.

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Qualification Requirements and Screen-out Elements

While a long tenure of specialized NDT experience is not required to apply for this helper position, candidates must show they possess the fundamental aptitude, physical dexterity, and mental sharpness to succeed in a demanding industrial setting. Your qualifications will be assessed based on the OPM Federal Wage System standards.

The Core Screen-out Element

To be considered eligible, you must demonstrate the Ability To Do The Work Of The Position Without More Than Normal Supervision. This is evaluated through your resume and must include:

1. Shop Mathematics: The ability to use geometry and basic algebra to calculate physical dimensions, calibrate testing tools, and analyze structural measurements.
2. Interpretation of Instructions: The ability to read, comprehend, and apply written technical specifications, blueprints, and equipment manuals.
3. Equipment Management: Ensuring that delicate NDT equipment performs optimally across different metal thicknesses and operating environments.
4. Basic Safety Knowledge: Adhering strictly to industrial safety protocols, hazard mitigation, and environmental standards.

Additionally, applicants must be U.S. citizens, pass a comprehensive background check to obtain a Secret Security Clearance, and successfully pass a pre-employment drug screening program.

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Salary and Career Progression Path

One of the most attractive aspects of this vacancy is its exceptional career ladder. You will enter as a WG-05, earning between $26.34 and $30.73 per hour, depending on your experience level. As you gain on-the-job hours, pass your certifications, and demonstrate technical proficiency, you can progress step-by-step up to a WG-11 Journeyman position.

Here is a comparison of how your role, supervision, and expectations will shift as you advance along this career trajectory:

Attribute	WG-05 Helper (Entry-Level)	WG-11 Journeyman (Target Level)
Starting Hourly Rate	$26.34 - $30.73	Varies (Significantly Higher FWS Rates)
Level of Supervision	High; works under close direction of senior staff	Independent; performs complex testing solo
Technical Focus	Surface preparation, tool setup, basic shop math	Multi-method NDT analysis, final code evaluations
Reporting Duties	Assists with reports; records raw measurements	Signs off on structural safety; drafts final approvals
Blueprint Reading	Interpreting simple parts and location diagrams	Reading complex system schematics and weld designs

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Comprehensive Benefits Package

Working for the Department of the Navy as a civilian employee offers a level of job stability, work-life balance, and long-term financial security that is difficult to find in the private sector. Your employment package will include:

• Comprehensive Healthcare: Excellent choices of medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your family.
• Federal Pension Plan: Lifetime retirement income through the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
• Thrift Savings Plan (TSP): A 401(k)-style retirement savings program featuring up to a 5% matching contribution from the Navy.
• Paid Time Off: Paid annual vacation days, accruable sick leave, and 11 federal holidays off each year.
• Professional Growth: Fully funded technical training, certification programs, and access to mentorship circles within the Department of Defense.

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How to Apply: A Step-by-Step Guide

To apply for this Portsmouth Naval Shipyard position, you must submit a complete application package through the USAJobs portal. Follow these steps to ensure your application is processed successfully:

1. Create/Log In to USAJobs: Go to USAJobs and build your user profile.
2. Build Your Resume: Use the built-in USAJobs Resume Builder. Ensure your resume is highly detailed, highlighting all instances where you used tools, followed safety protocols, read blueprints, or used math. Remember: Your resume must not exceed 2 pages.
3. Complete the Assessment: Click 'Apply Online' to be redirected to the USA Staffing system. Complete the occupational questionnaire, ensuring your answers match the experiences detailed on your resume.
4. Upload Supporting Documents: Submit a copy of your transcripts (if using education to qualify), DD-214 (for veterans), or SF-15 (for disabled veterans).
5. Submit Your Application: Finalize and submit your package before the closing date of October 5, 2026 at 11:59 PM Eastern Time.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I apply if I don't have formal NDT experience?

Yes! This is a helper/apprentice-style position. The hiring team is looking for candidates with solid fundamental mechanical skills, a strong grasp of shop mathematics, and a dedication to safety and learning. Formal NDT training will be provided on the job.

Is there a strict limit on resume length?

Yes. Your resume must be two pages or less. Resumes longer than two pages will be automatically disqualified from consideration. Keep your formatting clean, clear, and direct.

What are the main physical demands of this role?

Because you will be working on naval ships and inside a historic shipyard, you must be comfortable working on your feet, climbing ladders, working in confined structural spaces, and carrying equipment or hand tools.

Does this position require travel?

This position is based at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in Kittery, Maine. Travel is typically minimal, though occasional off-site training or support assignments could occur.

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The Nondestructive Test Examiner Helper position at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard is more than just a job; it is the starting point of a lifetime technical career. By joining the Department of the Navy, you will play a crucial role in safeguarding our nation's underwater fleet while enjoying competitive pay, comprehensive federal benefits, and a structured promotion path up to WG-11. If you are detail-oriented, skilled with tools, and ready to learn, submit your application before the October 5, 2026 deadline!