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Failure Analysis Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Actalent

Failure Analysis Technician

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$27.79 - $37.02/hr

Job Title: Failure Analysis Technician The Failure Analysis Technician troubleshoots and repairs customer-returned electronic products at the PCB and component level within a manufacturing ...

SolarEdge

Failure Analysis Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

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 ...

Apex Informatics

Failure Analysis

Mountain View, CA · On-site

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

Solaredge

Failure Analysis Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

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 ...

Analog Devices

Failure Analysis Technician

San Jose, CA · On-site

$40 - $55/hr

ADI's Quality Organization is seeking an experienced Failure Analysis Technician to help us understand and solve the root causes of customer returns as well as support qualification and new product ...

Analogdevices

Failure Analysis Technician

San Jose, CA · On-site

$40 - $55/hr

ADI's Quality Organization is seeking an experienced Failure Analysis Technician to help us understand and solve the root causes of customer returns as well as support qualification and new product ...

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How much do failure analysis jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 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 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.

How to become a failure analysis engineer?

To become a failure analysis engineer, typically a bachelor's degree in materials science, mechanical engineering, or a related field is required. Gaining experience with failure analysis techniques, such as microscopy and testing methods, and obtaining certifications like Certified Failure Analysis Professional can enhance job prospects. Strong problem-solving skills and familiarity with industry standards are also important.

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 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 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.

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 are popular job titles related to Failure Analysis jobs in California? For Failure Analysis jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Failure Analysis jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for 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:
Failure Analysis jobs near you
Infographic showing various Failure Analysis job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 83% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 9% Contract, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $57,346 per year, or $27.6 per hour.

Engineer - Failure Analysis CA

SMS INFOCOMM CORPORATION

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

SMS InfoComm rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

216th of 278 rated repair and maintenance companies

Job description

The Failure Analysis Engineer uses procedures and instructions to initiate the analysis process when product failure occurs. Investigations are researched for root causes with analysis documented, recorded, and communicated internally and with the client company. Responsible for first level failure analysis on Customer returned Server/Workstation computers.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other Duties not listed may be assigned.
Data Analysis/Communication/Issue Resolution Prevention 90% of Job
  • Have appropriate knowledge with the various systems, tools, and procedures used in failure analysis.
  • Be proficient in a large number of applications used for database management and reporting.
  • Visual mechanical inspection (VMI) of Computer Systems, computer components (Power Supply, DIMM, CPU, NIC, SSD, Motherboards, etc.) and/or subcomponents
  • Follows procedures and diagrams in performing engineering change orders, as required
  • Completes component level trouble shooting (capacitor, resistors, fuse, IC, diode, etc.) and failure analysis
  • Tests, troubleshoots and repairs complex system failures, as required
  • Assembly & disassembly of units, computer components and subcomponents
  • Skilled in communication, problem solving, and applying experience and expertise.
  • Complete sample analysis for equipment and process qualifications.
  • Identify optimum analytical approaches critical to problems.
  • Conduct innovative use of new analytical tools, equipment and methodologies.
  • Develop records and perform various failure analysis on systems and components to identity root cause.
  • Develop formal failure analysis data reporting and present internally and to client. Requires communication with Asia team in emails and conference calls.
  • Work inside customer lab.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Team Leadership 10% of Job
  • Responsible for maintaining a positive work environment while supporting the companys culture.
  • Responsible for fostering a healthy and safe work environment, focusing on the well-being of all associates.
  • Maintains and strengthens internal, external customer, and supplier relationships. Communicates and works well with all business partners.
  • Ensures inventory management and merchandise allocation flows product through the warehouse in the most cost efficient and productive manner.

Education and/or Experience
  • Bachelors degree in Electronics, Mechanical/Electrical Engineering, Computer/Server repair or other related field. Will accept Associates degree with experience in product engineering.
  • 0-2 years experience in FA role or 4 plus years in electronics quality inspection role
  • Comprehensive computer knowledge is essential.
  • Ability to use electronic test equipment (oscilloscopes & multi-meters, etc.)
  • Remain current on developments in field(s) of expertise, regulatory requirements, and a comprehensive knowledge of the Clients products, markets, and objectives as well as industry trends.
  • Must be able to speak English. Able to speak Mandarin Chinese is a plus.

Essential Skills:
  • Requires excellent written and oral communication skills.
  • Familiarity with MS Office (advanced excel)
  • Familiar with computer software and operating systems and possess the ability to identify and perform software updates (OS,BIOS, Drivers, Firmware)
  • Ability to read and interpret schematics/block diagrams with detailed understanding of computer and subassembly functionality
  • Ability to read and interpret system board views and board layout details
  • Effectively communicate concepts and solutions with various levels of the organization.
  • Effectively liaison between Company and Client.
  • Must be able to work cross-functionally with minimal supervision.
  • Requires strong analytical and statistical skills.
  • Requires flexibility to work overtime for special projects or business supports.

Competencies:
  • Shows determination to achieve excellent results
  • Finds better ways
  • Demands top performance
  • Inspires commitment

Working Condition
Environment is climate controlled. Should be able to reach over shoulder heights; bend or stoop below the waist; repetitive wrist, hand, or finger movement; occasional lifting up to 45 pounds. Able to work in an environment with loud noise.
SMS InfoComm Corporation is an equal opportunity employer. Diversity and Inclusion are the foundation of our culture.

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