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Failure Analysis Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Failure Analysis Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$76K - $121K/yr

Description Silicon level Failure Analysis Engineer will perform device level failure analysis to support RMA and customer issues. Responsibilities: • Performing fault isolation and defect analysis ...

... • Use analytical tools and techniques including: electrical debug (multimeter, oscilloscope, power supply, soldering station), X-ray/CT, optical microscopy, thermography, device/component ...

This Senior Failure Analysis Engineer will debug Solid State Drive (SSD) failures discovered during internal validation as well as field failures from our customers. They will need to work on variety ...

Engineer, Failure Analysis

Irvine, CA · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Job Summary Responsible for performing failure analysis of customer returned products, newly manufactured products, and prototype products, with the intent of root cause isolation of full device ...

Engineer, Failure Analysis

Irvine, CA · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Job Summary Responsible for performing failure analysis of customer returned products, newly manufactured products, and prototype products, with the intent of root cause isolation of full device ...

Failure Analysis Analyst

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$65K - $95K/yr

Role Summary The Failure Analysis (FA) Analyst performs hands-on laboratory work to support investigations into material, device, and component failures. This role focuses on precise sample ...

We are looking for a Failure Analysis Engineer who loves digging into tough hardware problems, building creative test setups, and turning complex failures into clear technical answers. This is not a ...

Failure Analysis Engineer/MTS

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$90K - $140K/yr

Perform hands-on failure analysis of electronic, semiconductor, and/or advanced technology devices and assemblies. * Plan investigations by selecting appropriate analytical techniques and sequencing ...

Propose proper Failure Analysis techniques for finding a certain failure mode * Track and document the list of failure analysis requests, results and conclusions * Plot diagrams, generate charts ...

We are seeking a hands-on Member of Technical Staff (MTS) - Failure Analysis Engineer to join the Failure Analysis (FA) team. This role combines experimental work, instrumentation, data ...

Showing results 21-40

Failure Analysis information

See California salary details

$14

$27

$41

How much do failure analysis jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for failure analysis in California is $27.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.70 and $29.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is failure analysis?

Failure analysis is the process of investigating why a component, system, or material has failed in service or during testing. The goal is to determine the root cause of the failure, which can involve examining physical evidence, collecting data, and performing laboratory tests such as microscopy or chemical analysis. This information helps organizations prevent future failures, improve product design, and ensure safety and reliability. Failure analysis is commonly used in industries such as aerospace, automotive, electronics, and manufacturing.

What skills and qualifications are needed for a failure analysis engineer?

To thrive as a Failure Analysis Engineer, you need a solid background in materials science, engineering, or physics, with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities. Familiarity with laboratory tools such as scanning electron microscopes (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and relevant software for data analysis is typically required. Attention to detail, effective communication, and teamwork are crucial soft skills for documenting findings and collaborating with cross-functional teams. These competencies ensure accurate root-cause identification and effective solutions, which are vital for improving product reliability and reducing costly defects.

What are common challenges in a failure analysis role and how are they addressed?

Professionals in Failure Analysis often encounter challenges such as isolating the root cause of complex failures, working with incomplete data, and meeting tight deadlines for critical product investigations. These challenges are typically addressed through a systematic approach—using advanced analytical tools, collaborating closely with cross-functional teams like engineering and quality assurance, and maintaining clear documentation. Continuous learning and staying updated with the latest testing methodologies also help in effectively overcoming obstacles in this dynamic field.

What is the difference between Failure Analysis vs Materials Engineer?

AspectFailure AnalysisMaterials Engineer
Primary FocusInvestigating and diagnosing product failures to determine root causesDesigning, developing, and testing materials for product performance
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, manufacturing plants, failure investigation sitesResearch labs, manufacturing facilities, R&D departments
CertificationsOften requires certifications like ASQ Certified Failure AnalystTypically requires materials science degrees, possibly professional engineering licenses

Failure Analysis specialists focus on diagnosing why products fail, often working in labs or manufacturing settings. Materials Engineers design and develop materials to improve product performance. While both roles require technical knowledge of materials, Failure Analysis emphasizes troubleshooting and root cause analysis, whereas Materials Engineering centers on material development and testing.

How do you become a failure analysis engineer?

Failure analysis engineers typically hold a bachelor's degree in engineering, materials science, or a related field. They gain experience through internships or entry-level positions, develop skills in failure investigation, microscopy, and testing methods, and may pursue certifications such as Certified Failure Analyst (CFA) to advance their careers.

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

The most popular types of Failure Analysis jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Failure Analysis jobs?

Cities in California with the most Failure Analysis job openings:

Infographic showing various Failure Analysis job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,346 per year, or $27.6 per hour.

Failure Analysis Engineer

Rootshell Enterprise Technologies, Inc.

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

Full-time

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


Job description

Hello All,
Greetings from Rootshell Inc.
Rootshell Enterprise Technologies Inc. is a recognized provider of professional IT Consulting services in the US. We are actively seeking Failure Analysis Engineer for one of our client, Please share your resume with current location & full contact info
Role: Failure Analysis Engineer
Location:Santa Clara, California- Onsite
Job description
  • Expert technical skills in the manufacturing test environment, both PCBA and box build/system level assemblies.
  • Strong Linux system administration knowledge.
  • Outstanding communication skills, both written and verbal.
  • A highly collaborative working style is a must.
  • Moderate to fluent in programming languages and tools used for the test environment (Linux OS, Tcl, Expect, Shell Script, Python, Network Switch, Terminal Server, and PDU)
  • Ability to apply a working knowledge of server/client and IP based networking hardware architecture, both system and component level, to the test environment.
  • Demonstrated ability at hardware debugging to component level and fault isolation is mandatory.
  • Familiarity with test engineering principles, methods and industry standard "best practices" in a manufacturing test environment including JTAG, boundary scan, 2-corner and 4-corner testing.
  • Knowledge of Salesforce,JIRA and SAP desired.
  • Ability to read schematics and view board files (Allegro Viewer and Cadence PCB Design)

Regards,
Naveen
Naveen@rootshellinc.com