JOB DESCRIPTION: MPI TECHNICIAN

Company: AMS
Location: Boksburg, Gauteng
Job Title: MPI Technician (Magnetic Particle Inspection Technician)
Department: Quality Control / Non-Destructive Testing (NDT)
Employment Type: Full time

1. Job Purpose

The MPI Technician is responsible for conducting Magnetic Particle Inspection (MPI) on steel components, welds, and structures to detect surface and near-surface defects without damaging the material. The successful candidate will ensure that inspections are performed accurately and in accordance with approved procedures, applicable industry standards, and customer specifications.

2. Key Responsibilities

• Perform Magnetic Particle Inspection (MPI) on steel components, welds, forgings, and other ferromagnetic materials.

• Conduct visual inspections before and after MPI testing.

• Prepare inspection surfaces by removing dirt, oil, grease, and other contaminants.

• Set up and operate MPI equipment in accordance with approved inspection procedures.

• Apply magnetic fields and magnetic particles to identify cracks, seams, laps, and other relevant defects.

• Interpret and evaluate inspection indications against applicable acceptance criteria.

• Review engineering drawings, technical specifications, and inspection procedures before conducting tests.

• Mark and document defective areas and report non-conforming components to the supervisor.

• Compile accurate inspection reports and maintain traceable inspection records.

• Verify that MPI equipment is functioning correctly and that calibration and verification requirements are met.

• Ensure that all inspection activities comply with relevant quality standards and customer requirements.

• Assist with quality assurance, quality control, and investigations into product defects.

• Maintain inspection equipment and ensure that the work area remains clean and organised.

• Follow all health, safety, and environmental procedures.

• Work overtime or shifts when operationally required.

3. Minimum Qualifications

• Grade 12 / Matric, preferably with Mathematics and Physical Science.

• Valid MPI Level 2 certification from a recognised NDT certification scheme, as required by the employer and applicable inspection procedures.

• Additional NDT certifications, such as Ultrasonic Testing (UT) Level 2 or Liquid Penetrant Testing (PT) Level 2, would be advantageous.

4. Experience Requirements

• Previous experience performing Magnetic Particle Inspection in an industrial, engineering, manufacturing, steel fabrication, or related environment.

• Experience inspecting welds, steel components, forgings, or machined parts.

• Knowledge of NDT principles, inspection techniques, and defect identification.

• Experience setting up and operating MPI equipment.

• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, specifications, and inspection procedures.

• Experience preparing inspection reports and maintaining quality documentation.

5. Technical Skills and Competencies

• Practical knowledge of Magnetic Particle Inspection techniques.

• Ability to identify and evaluate relevant inspection indications.

• Understanding of surface and near-surface material defects.

• Knowledge of applicable NDT standards and acceptance criteria.

• Ability to operate, verify, and care for inspection equipment.

• Good report-writing and record-keeping skills.

• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.

• Good communication and problem-solving skills.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a technical team.

6. Health and Safety Requirements

• Comply with all company health and safety policies and site-specific procedures.

• Wear the required personal protective equipment (PPE).

• Follow approved inspection procedures and risk assessments.

• Handle inspection chemicals and consumables safely.

• Report unsafe conditions, equipment defects, and non-conformances promptly.

7. Key Performance Indicators

• Accuracy and reliability of inspection results.

• Compliance with approved inspection procedures and applicable standards.

• Timely completion of inspection assignments.

• Accurate and complete inspection documentation.

• Proper care and verification of MPI equipment.

• Compliance with health and safety requirements.

• Effective reporting of defects and non-conforming products.

8. Additional Requirements

• Willingness to work shifts and overtime when required.

• Ability to work in a workshop or industrial environment.

• Willingness to travel to customer sites, if required.

• Valid driver's licence would be advantageous.

Important: Candidates must hold the appropriate certification and authorisation for the NDT methods they are expected to perform. Additional methods such as UT or PT should only be included as mandatory requirements if AMS confirms they form part of the position.