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Failure Analysis Engineer Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

In this senior level MEMS Design & Analysis Engineering role, you'll provide innovative solutions ... failure. • Develops production methods and fabrication processes for MEMS. • Drafts ...

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Components Engineer

Boston, MA · Remote

$90 - $110/hr

This role blends deep technical expertise, supplier engagement, failure analysis, and cross functional engineering collaboration. You will lead and/or assist in the performance of Electrical ...

Reliability Engineer II

Woburn, MA · On-site

$68.90 - $131.10/hr

Overview The Systems Engineering and Test Capabilities (SE&TC) Life Cycle Engineering (LCE) Long ... Perform Failure Modes Effects and Criticality Analyses (FMECA) and Fault Detection/Fault Isolation ...

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Failure Analysis Engineer information

See Boston, MA salary details

$49.4K

$101.2K

$147.2K

How much do failure analysis engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for failure analysis engineer in Boston, MA is $101,225.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,000.00 and $128,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries, especially in industries like aerospace, electronics, or manufacturing.

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?

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 Boston, MA? The most popular types of Failure Analysis Engineer jobs in Boston, MA are:
What are popular job titles related to Failure Analysis Engineer jobs in Boston, MA? For Failure Analysis Engineer jobs in Boston, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Boston, MA are hiring for Failure Analysis Engineer jobs? Cities near Boston, MA with the most Failure Analysis Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Failure Analysis Engineer job openings in Boston, MA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,230 per year, or $48.7 per hour.

MEMS Design & Analysis Engineer

Draper

Cambridge, MA • On-site

$75K - $275K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Overview:
Draper is an independent, nonprofit research and development company headquartered in Cambridge, MA. The 2,000+ employees of Draper tackle important national challenges with a promise of delivering successful and usable solutions. From military defense and space exploration to biomedical engineering, lives often depend on the solutions we provide. Our multidisciplinary teams of engineers and scientists work in a collaborative environment that inspires the cross-fertilization of ideas necessary for true innovation. For more information about Draper, visit www.draper.com.
Job Description Summary:
In this senior level MEMS Design & Analysis Engineering role, you'll provide innovative solutions to complex problems by developing novel microsystem devices that integrate precision sensors, actuators, optics, and/or novel materials. We work cross-functionally, contributing to existing programs and help develop innovative concepts and competitive proposals.
We're looking for someone with experience in MEMS sensor design, analysis, fabrication and/or test background, willing to venture into new and unexplored areas. Experience in application areas such as inertial guidance, magnetic sensing, microfluidic systems, biomedical devices, thermoelectric, microelectronics, radiation physics, and related topics is beneficial (but not required).
This role offers a path to deepen your technical influence:
• Work effectively in a team environment and communicate progress through reports and presentations.
• Develop detailed physics-based models of the devices which will then be validated with laboratory testing.
• Experience modeling multi-physics devices and systems using modern commercial simulation tools (COMSOL, Ansys, MATLAB/Simulink).
• Develop solutions to complex systems problems by leveraging novel MEMS device development, nuclear physics, materials, optics and related technologies.
• Experience in MEMS development troubleshooting, verification and validation.
• Work with program leaders and customers to help define needs/requirements, write-proposals, and manage technical teams.
You'll help define what's possible in next-generation MEMS enabled systems.
Job Description:
Duties/Responsibilities
• Designs and develops Microelectromechanical devices/sensors, schematics and physical layouts of integrated MEMS components or packaged assemblies.
• Assesses performance and process capabilities of potential MEMS device designs using modeling or simulation software.
• Tests and evaluates devices using a variety of tools, protocols, and software.
• Analyzes and addresses issues such as reliability, yield improvement, and/or failure.
• Develops production methods and fabrication processes for MEMS.
• Drafts documentation such as operating instructions, performance specifications, and manuals.
• Shares performance experience and operating characteristics with designers or other engineers for new product development purposes and/or training.
• Develop and maintain effective internal/external relationships.
• Drive solutions to complex problems with limited direction, contribute to requirements development, propose ways forward, and adapt appropriately to changes in requirements.
• Able to provide insight and suggest design or process modifications based on quantitative data or results.
• Identify program/system-level technical risks and develop and execute mitigation strategies for them.
• Actively mentor less experienced engineers and provide thoughtful, constructive feedback.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.
Skills/Abilities
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent time management skills with the proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proficient with the fabrication and metrology tools and instrumentation related to MEMS component fabrication.
• Proficient with software tools and systems used for device design, modelling, and performance testing.
• Proficient with software tools and systems used for statistical process control, and reliability and failure analysis, including yield improvement.
Education
Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Physics required. Master's degree preferred
Experience
5-10 years of Microsystems Engineering or related experience.
Additional Job Description:
Applicants selected for this position will be required to obtain and maintain a government security clearance.
Connect With Draper for Future Opportunities! If you don't find the right posting in our Career Opportunities, you may submit your resume for future consideration.
Job Location - City:
Cambridge
Job Location - State:
Massachusetts
Job Location - Postal Code:
02139-3563
The US base salary range for this full-time position is
$75,000.00 - $275,000.00
Our salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed on each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target salaries for the position across all US locations. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Union ranges will be in compliance with the collective bargaining agreement's approved rates by location and role. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for your preferred location during the hiring process. Please note that the compensation details listed in US role postings reflect the base salary only, and does not include bonuses or benefits.
Our work is very important to us, but so is our life outside of work. Draper supports many programs to improve work-life balance including workplace flexibility, employee clubs ranging from photography to yoga, health and finance workshops, off site social events and discounts to local museums and cultural activities. If this specific job opportunity and the chance to work at a nationally renowned R&D innovation company appeals to you, apply now www.draper.com/careers.
Draper is committed to creating an inclusive environment. We understand the value of inclusivity and its impact on a high-performance culture. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Draper is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, please contact hr@draper.com.