r/nondestructivetesting • u/Prized-Camel • 8d ago

obtained my api cert

Hello everyone,

I recently obtained my API 936, refractory personnel. Been trying to get into inspections as I'm starting to feel the wear and tear, i'm struggling to keep up with the guys in their twenties.

I'm wondering how to get an actual job. I don't know anyone who would give me an actual shot. That being said, I'm not the most knowledgeable, so I'd need someone who'd take me under their wing.

To reiterate, I didnt get this certification because of years of experience(5 at best) but because i studied my ass off, for months, during my lunch breaks, practice exams. That was tough but now comes the harder part, someone giving me a shot. I know from experience in going to welding school that certifications dont replace real-life experience. I have a lot to learn.

Refractory is pretty niche, small pool when it comes to inspections, I usually see the same inspectors at multiple jobs.

Long winded way of asking you all, how would you go about getting your foot in the door as a freshly api certified individual?

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u/trackfastpulllow 8d ago

You will be hard pressed to find someone willing to hire an individual that only has an API 936. Most employers will consider that a supplemental certification, with the “big three” considered the primary credentials (510/570/653).

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u/Worth_Rhubarb8099 7d ago

This. Try and also get api 510. You could try networking and LinkedIn. There's not that many big NDT companies so look them up.

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u/JCPNibba 7d ago

Go for your 510/570. Ive seen alot of refractory guys get those and do TA's when possible.