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Failure Analysis Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Conduct root-cause and failure analysis on RF and EW component and board-level failures, working ... Must have 8+ years of reliability engineering experience, including significant work on RF ...

Conduct root-cause and failure analysis on RF and EW component and board-level failures, working ... Must have 8+ years of reliability engineering experience, including significant work on RF ...

Conduct root-cause and failure analysis on RF and EW component and board-level failures, working ... Must have 8+ years of reliability engineering experience, including significant work on RF ...

Electrical Engineer

Columbia, MD · On-site

$110K - $170K/yr

Electrical Engineer Columbia, MD | Full Time | Category: Hardware Clearance Required : None - Must ... failure analysis on failed printed circuit boards * Familiarity with printed circuit board (PCB ...

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Failure Analysis Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$51.5K

$105.5K

$153.5K

How much do failure analysis engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for failure analysis engineer in Washington is $105,534.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,300.00 and $133,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a failure analysis engineer do?

Failure analysis engineers check and identify problems associated with business processes. These errors primarily take place in electrical systems. Failure analysis engineers determine the cause of equipment failure and decide on an action plan to avoid similar issues in the future. Daily responsibilities include conducting tests on electrical systems to determine usability and life cycle, performing preventative maintenance, and conducting emergency maintenance on electrical components. Qualifications typically include a master’s degree in mechanical or electrical engineering, but most employers also provide on-the-job training.

What does a failure analysis engineer do?

A Failure Analysis Engineer investigates the causes of failures in products, components, or systems to determine why they did not perform as expected. They use various analytical techniques such as microscopy, spectroscopy, and stress testing to identify defects or issues. Their work helps manufacturers improve product reliability, prevent future failures, and enhance overall quality. These engineers often collaborate closely with design, manufacturing, and quality assurance teams to implement corrective actions based on their findings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a failure analysis engineer?

To thrive as a Failure Analysis Engineer, you need a solid background in materials science, electrical or mechanical engineering, and experience with analytical and diagnostic techniques, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with laboratory tools such as scanning electron microscopes (SEM), X-ray analysis systems, and failure analysis software is common, and certifications like Six Sigma can be beneficial. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for clearly documenting findings and collaborating with cross-functional teams. These skills and qualities are essential to accurately identify root causes of failures, drive product improvements, and minimize costly defects in manufacturing processes.

What are some common challenges faced by failure analysis engineers, and how can they be addressed?

Failure Analysis Engineers often encounter challenges such as limited access to failed components, incomplete failure histories, and tight deadlines for root cause identification. Overcoming these challenges requires strong attention to detail, effective communication with cross-functional teams, and creative problem-solving skills. Building a robust process for data collection and collaborating closely with manufacturing, design, and quality teams can help ensure thorough investigations and more accurate recommendations for corrective actions.

What is the difference between Failure Analysis Engineer vs Materials Engineer?

AspectFailure Analysis EngineerMaterials Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Engineering, certifications like ASQ CQE or FAIBachelor's or Master's in Materials Science or Engineering, similar certifications
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, manufacturing plants, quality assurance settingsResearch labs, manufacturing facilities, product development
Industry UsageAutomotive, electronics, aerospace, manufacturingMaterials development, testing, quality control across industries

Failure Analysis Engineers focus on diagnosing product failures to improve quality, often working in labs and manufacturing settings. Materials Engineers develop and test materials used in products, ensuring durability and performance. While both roles require similar credentials and work environments, Failure Analysis Engineers specialize in failure diagnostics, whereas Materials Engineers focus on material development and testing.

How much does a failure analysis engineer make?

Failure analysis engineers typically earn a median annual salary between $70,000 and $100,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in materials or electronics can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $120,000 annually.

What are the most commonly searched types of Failure Analysis Engineer jobs in Washington?

The most popular types of Failure Analysis Engineer jobs in Washington are:

What are popular job titles related to Failure Analysis Engineer jobs in Washington?

For Failure Analysis Engineer jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Failure Analysis Engineer jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Failure Analysis Engineer jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Failure Analysis Engineer jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Failure Analysis Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Failure Analysis Engineer jobs in WA?

For Failure Analysis Engineer jobs in WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Failure Analysis Engineer job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,534 per year, or $50.7 per hour.

Space Domain Awareness Modeling & Analysis Engineer with Security Clearance

Aerospace Corporation

Chantilly, VA • On-site

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation's space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space- delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you'll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space. At the Mission Payloads Division (MPD), we are pioneers in remote sensing systems that guide our country's space enterprise. Our talented and dynamic people create and flourish in electronics, sensors, radar, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced data network domains. We boldly advance technology through our research and development and then forward to demonstration and integration. With innovative laboratories and prototyping, MPD delivers groundbreaking results. We guide our Department of Defense, intelligence community, and civil clients to enhance national productivity and security and tackle the most critical missions. Bring your intelligence and creative spirit and join us at MPD! The Sensor Modeling and Simulation Department (SMSD) supports all aspects of advanced remote sensing system development: designing and assessing the performance of optics and electro-optical focal plane arrays, modeling the end-to-end sensing system, simulating target scenes and atmospheres, developing innovative data processing and computer vision algorithms, and producing simulated data products for new applications. Our expertise, combined with sophisticated in-house laboratories and prototyping capabilities, enables SMSD to deliver innovative solutions to national space systems and civil customers. The selected candidate will be required to work full time on-site at our facility at Chantilly, VA What You'll Be Doing * Develop and refine models and simulations of space domain awareness (SDA) systems in optical and infrared wave bands
* Forge physics-based code to model and assess system performance against multiple requirements
* Construct techniques for defining system performance requirements and advise government customers on best practices and trade considerations
* Develop methodology and design associated experiments or collection campaigns to validate SDA system performance
* Evaluate the performance impact of different sensor configuration and/or implementation strategies in both hardware and operational aspects
* Collaborate with and/or lead small teams of engineers and scientists in developing end-to-end system and performance modeling tools across multiple software interfaces
* Present your work to government and other stakeholders to aid definition and verification of system requirements and performance What You Need to be Successful - Engineering Specialist Minimum Requirements: * Bachelor's degree from an accredited program in in Remote Sensing, Imaging Science, Astronomy, Physics, Mathematics, Atmospheric Science, Computer Science, Optical or Electrical Engineering, or another related discipline
* Eight years of experience after bachelor's degree with remote sensing system modeling, simulation, design, data processing, calibration, characterization, phenomenology, and/or applications
* High aptitude for leadership and ability to work independently or collaboratively
* Strong scientific programming skills (particularly in C++ and Python) and familiarity with software version control systems (git)
* Analytical and creative problem-solving skills
* Strong written and oral communication skills
* Willingness to travel approximately 10% of time
* This position requires ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret/SCI security clearance, which is issued by the US government. U.S citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance In addition to the above, the minimum requirements for Sr. Engineering Specialist: * Twelve years of experience after bachelor's degree with remote sensing system modeling, simulation, design, data processing, calibration, characterization, phenomenology, and/or applications
* Demonstrated experience modeling SDA sensors How You Can Stand Out It would be impressive if you have one or more of these: * Advanced degree from an accredited program in in Remote Sensing, Imaging Science, Astronomy, Physics, Mathematics, Atmospheric Science, Computer Science, Optical or Electrical Engineering, or another related discipline
* Demonstrated experience with modeling and simulation of sensor performance in SDA (optical and infrared) systems
* Proficiency with image reduction pipelines (i.e., removal of bias, gain correction etc.)
* Familiarity with agile software development and Atlassian tools (Jira, Confluence).
* Working knowledge of FORTRAN
* Background in evaluating sensor hardware performance
* Proven track record in leadership and ability to mentor junior staff
* Current and active Top Secret/SCI security clearance We offer a competitive compensation package where you'll be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you bring to our business. The grade-based pay range for this job is listed below. Individual salaries within that range are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge and skills. (Min - Max)
$129,000.00 - $249,600.00 Pay Basis: Annual Leadership Competencies Our leadership philosophy is simple: every employee, regardless of level and role, can demonstrate leadership. At Aerospace, our commitment is our people. To cultivate our talent and ensure that we have a strong pipeline of future leaders, we want individuals who: * Operate Strategically * Lead Change * Engage with Impact * Foster Innovation * Deliver Results Ways We Reward Our Employees During your interview process, our team will provide details of our industry-leading benefits. Benefits vary and are applicable based on Job Type. A few highlights include: * Comprehensive health care and wellness plans
* Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation
* Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options
* 401(k) Plan - Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire
* Flexible spending accounts
* Variable pay program for exceptional contributions
* Relocation assistance
* Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career
* Education assistance programs
* An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect We are all unique, from various backgrounds and all walks of life, yet one thing bonds all of us to each other-the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to do our best work at The Aerospace Corporation. Equal Opportunity Commitment The Aerospace Corporation is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, color, religion, genetic information, marital status, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, physical disability, medical condition, mental disability, or disability status and any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. If you're an individual with a disability or a disabled veteran who needs assistance using our online job search and application tools or need reasonable accommodation to complete the job application process, please contact us by phone at 310.336.5432 or by email at . You can also review Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal .