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Leveling Up Without Leveling Out: What to Do When Your Level III Certification Goes Unrecognized

Ed Korkowski

Achieving Level III certification is a major milestone. It represents technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and often, leadership in mentoring others and ensuring quality across the board. But what happens when you hit this milestone, and the promised recognition, compensation, or career growth doesn’t follow? For many in the NDT field, this is a frustrating reality that can leave them questioning their loyalty and long-term career path.


This blog explores what to do if you find yourself in this situation and how to advocate for fair compensation and recognition.


The Emotional and Professional Toll of Being Overlooked


As the LinkedIn post from a fellow Level III professional reveals, waiting for promised recognition after earning certification can be disheartening. You’ve done the hard part: studying, gaining experience, passing rigorous exams, and assuming new responsibilities. But instead of reward and validation, you’re met with silence—or worse, excuses.


When promises aren’t kept, it’s natural to feel undervalued. This frustration can lead to dissatisfaction, poor job performance, and eventually, turnover. However, before you jump ship, consider the following steps to regain control of your situation and secure the compensation you deserve.


Step 1: Evaluate the Promises and Agreements

Were expectations clear? If you were promised a raise, promotion, or bonus upon achieving Level III status, make sure you have this in writing or documented through email or performance reviews. If it was a verbal promise, it may be harder to prove, but still worth bringing up.

Reassess the timeline. If it’s been months since certification, reach out to your manager to discuss the delay. Sometimes, internal processes (budget approvals, restructuring, etc.) can cause legitimate delays. However, long delays with no communication are a red flag.


Step 2: Schedule a Meeting to Discuss Compensation


Approach this conversation with preparation and professionalism. Here are key points to cover:

Highlight your contributions. Beyond just achieving Level III certification, mention specific ways you’ve impacted the team, improved inspection accuracy, reduced costs, or helped train junior technicians.

Know your worth. Research industry compensation rates for Level III professionals in your region. If you’re being underpaid compared to market value, provide that data.

Be direct but flexible. Say something like:

“When we discussed Level III certification, there was an understanding that additional compensation and responsibilities would follow. I’ve fulfilled my end of the agreement, and I’d like to discuss a timeline for when the compensation we talked about will be implemented.”


Step 3: Explore Alternative Ways to Be Rewarded


If the company is unable to offer a raise or promotion, consider negotiating for other benefits:

Professional development opportunities (like training or conferences)

Increased vacation days or flexible work arrangements

Bonuses tied to performance milestones

Leadership roles or title changes that enhance your career trajectory


Sometimes companies may not have the immediate budget for a raise but can offer non-monetary incentives that are equally valuable to your long-term goals.


Step 4: Know When to Move On


If you’ve made your case and the company still isn’t willing to recognize your achievements, it’s time to reassess your future there. Staying in a role where your contributions aren’t valued can limit your growth, both financially and professionally. As the original LinkedIn post states, finding a team that values growth, recognizes achievements, and rewards dedication is essential.


When to consider leaving:

• If promises are repeatedly broken or ignored

• If the company’s culture doesn’t align with your career goals

• If other opportunities offer better growth and stability


Step 5: Use the Experience as Leverage for Your Next Opportunity


When applying for new roles, leverage the hard-earned knowledge you gained from your Level III certification. Be upfront with potential employers about what you’re looking for in terms of compensation and growth. Make sure the next opportunity comes with a clear, written agreement that aligns with your expectations.


Pro Tip:

During job interviews, ask questions like:

How does your organization recognize and reward certifications or milestones?

What kind of support do you offer Level III professionals to continue growing within the company?


Don’t be afraid to walk away if an offer doesn’t meet your criteria. The demand for qualified Level III professionals is high, and you have the skills to find a better fit.


Step 6: Protect Yourself by Setting Expectations Early


For those still working toward Level III or planning future certifications, setting expectations upfront is critical. Here’s how to do it:

Discuss compensation during the certification process. Make sure both you and your employer agree on what will happen once you achieve the milestone. Ask for a timeline and have it documented.

Ask for performance reviews to be tied to your progress. This will create a framework where your contributions are regularly acknowledged and rewarded.

Be aware of company policies on promotions and raises. Some organizations have rigid timelines or budget cycles. Understanding this upfront can help you manage your expectations.


Advice for Employers: Don’t Underestimate the Cost of Losing Talent


Employers who fail to reward Level III certifications risk more than just employee turnover. They face:

Knowledge and expertise gaps that affect quality and compliance

Higher recruitment costs to replace trained professionals

Potential loss of trust and morale among the remaining team


Recognizing and rewarding achievements isn’t just good ethics—it’s good business.


Final Thoughts: Advocate for Yourself


If you’ve achieved Level III certification and aren’t seeing the recognition or rewards you deserve, don’t wait silently. Advocate for yourself, negotiate firmly, and know your worth. Sometimes, a productive conversation is all it takes to get things back on track. But if that doesn’t work, don’t be afraid to seek opportunities elsewhere.


You’ve put in the work, passed the exams, and proven your dedication. Now, make sure you get the recognition you deserve. After all, your skills are too valuable to go unrewarded.


And if you’re currently exploring new opportunities, remember: you’re not alone. There are companies that value Level III professionals. Keep searching until you find one that fits.


Looking for a resource to help you stay on top of industry trends and job opportunities? Visit eddycurrent.com, the best resource for eddy current testing professionals, where you can find training programs, industry updates, and job-related tips.

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