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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 ...

Electrical Engineer

Columbia, MD · On-site

$110K - $170K/yr

Electrical Engineer Columbia, MD | Full Time | Category: Hardware Clearance Required : Active ... failure analysis on failed printed circuit boards * Familiarity with printed circuit board (PCB ...

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 ...

Electrical Engineer

Columbia, MD · On-site

$110K - $170K/yr

Electrical Engineer Columbia, MD | Full Time | Category: Hardware Clearance Required : Active ... failure analysis on failed printed circuit boards * Familiarity with printed circuit board (PCB ...

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 Jul 13, 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 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.

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 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Failure Analysis Engineer, and why are they important?

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 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 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 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,534 per year, or $50.7 per hour.
2026 PhD Graduate - Weapon Systems Modeling and Analysis Engineer

2026 PhD Graduate - Weapon Systems Modeling and Analysis Engineer

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory

Laurel, MD • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Description

Are you passionate about improving Precision Strike capabilities for the United States warfighter?


Do you love solving complex problems with sophisticated modeling and simulation (M&S) tools?

If you are graduating with a PhD degree in Aerospace Engineering, Physics, Computer Science, Mathematics, or another engineering field and want to study the survivability of missile systems, we'd love to have you join our team!

We are seeking a weapon systems modeling and analysis engineer to help us develop, characterize, and evaluate missile performance against precision strike platforms in complex environments. We are a multi talented and hardworking team of analysts and engineers who support a wide range of government sponsors who have many exciting technical problems. Our team conducts high fidelity physics-based modeling while collaborating with authorities in other fields including: GN&C, RF / IR Engineering, Electronic Warfare, Software Development, Systems Engineering and more!

As a member of our team, you will:

  • Develop and use physics-based models and simulations to assess the effectiveness and optimal employment of both legacy and innovative U.S. strike missiles in 1-v-1 and 1-v-few scenarios
  • Analyze driving factors behind strike system performance
  • Collaborate with a multi-disciplinary team to use, develop and improve modeling capabilities and missile models
  • Build and leverage novel data visualization tools for large and complex data sets
  • Prepare and present formal documentation to technical specialists, operational partners, and government sponsors
  • Collaborate with mission-level analysts and inform their modeling efforts

Qualifications

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...

  • Have a PhD in Aerospace Engineering, Physics, Computer Science, Mathematics, or another engineering field
  • Have experience with data processing languages such as MATLAB and Python
  • Have experience using physics-based simulations and investigating the driving factors behind performance
  • Have experience solving complex problems using rigorous and documented processes
  • Are willing, able and passionate about learning missile systems concepts to improve modeling and simulation tools and to perform engagement-level analysis
  • Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain Top Secret level clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You will go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...

  • Have experience in the modeling and simulation of surface-to-air and/or air-to-air missiles
  • Have knowledge of software design best practices, including a solid understanding of object-oriented programming principles.
  • Have experience with Simulink, Fortran, or C++
  • Have experience working with software versioning systems such as Git or SVN
  • Have experience working with external customers and partners
  • Hold an active final Secret level security clearance

Special Working Conditions: Limited air and vehicle travel to U.S. Government and Department of Defense contractor facilities.


About Us

Why Work at APL?

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.

At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities athttps://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contactAccessibility@jhuapl.edu.

The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.


Minimum Rate
$105,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$245,000 Annually