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Failure Analysis Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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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:

Failure Analysis jobs near you
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 and Reliability Engineer

Advanced Micro Devices, Inc

San Jose, CA

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Advanced Micro Devices rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 161 rated electronics manufacturers

Job description


WHAT YOU DO AT AMD CHANGES EVERYTHING 

At AMD, our mission is to build great products that accelerate next-generation computing experiences—from AI and data centers, to PCs, gaming and embedded systems. Grounded in a culture of innovation and collaboration, we believe real progress comes from bold ideas, human ingenuity and a shared passion to create something extraordinary. When you join AMD, you’ll discover the real differentiator is our culture. We push the limits of innovation to solve the world’s most important challenges—striving for execution excellence, while being direct, humble, collaborative, and inclusive of diverse perspectives. Join us as we shape the future of AI and beyond.  Together, we advance your career.  



THE ROLE:

We are looking for a Quality Engineer to support component- and board-level failure analysis for advanced semiconductor products. In this role, you will perform electrical verification, fault isolation, physical failure analysis, board-level analysis, reliability stress support, and clear technical reporting. This is a hands-on engineering position suited for someone who enjoys solving complex technical problems, working across teams, and driving issues from initial investigation through root-cause conclusion. Job level will be aligned to the selected candidate’s experience. You will be part of a technical team focused on solving challenging semiconductor quality and reliability problems. This role offers the opportunity to build deep hands-on failure analysis expertise, work with advanced products and analytical tools, and contribute directly to product quality, reliability, and customer success.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Perform component- and board-level failure analysis to determine root cause of product or board failures.
  • Conduct electrical verification, fault isolation, and physical failure analysis using appropriate tools and techniques.
  • Perform board-level dye-and-pry analysis, PCB construction analysis, and physical failure analysis of PCB assemblies.
  • Support board-level reliability stress testing and bench testing before and after stress exposure when needed.
  • Document analysis results in clear, accurate failure analysis reports with evidence-based conclusions and recommended next steps.
  • Work with cross-functional engineering teams to investigate issues, communicate findings, and support corrective actions.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related technical field.
  • 1–3 years of experience in semiconductor failure analysis, product quality, reliability engineering, board-level analysis, or a related technical area.
  • Hands-on experience with electrical fault isolation and physical failure analysis methods.
  • Ability to analyze technical data, draw logical conclusions, and communicate results clearly in written reports.
  • Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage investigations with limited supervision.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Experience with dye-and-pry testing in accordance with IPC-TM-650 methods.
  • Experience with precision cross-sectioning, parallel lapping, chemical deprocessing, or related physical analysis techniques.
  • Familiarity with failure analysis tools and techniques such as curve tracing, C-SAM, X-ray, TDR, OBIRCH, thermal emission microscopy, and SEM.
  • Knowledge of semiconductor reliability stress testing, CMOS devices, circuit analysis, diagnostic techniques, IC fabrication, and assembly processes.
  • Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional engineering, quality, reliability, and product teams.

This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

#LI-LR1329



Benefits offered are described:  AMD benefits at a glance.

AMD does not accept unsolicited resumes from headhunters, recruitment agencies, or fee-based recruitment services. AMD and its subsidiaries are equal opportunity, inclusive employers and will consider all applicants without regard to age, ancestry, color, marital status, medical condition, mental or physical disability, national origin, race, religion, political and/or third-party affiliation, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.   We encourage applications from all qualified candidates and will accommodate applicants’ needs under the respective laws throughout all stages of the recruitment and selection process.

AMD may use Artificial Intelligence to help screen, assess or select applicants for this position.  AMD’s “Responsible AI Policy” is available here.

 

This posting is for an existing vacancy.

Qualifications:

Benefits offered are described:  AMD benefits at a glance.

AMD does not accept unsolicited resumes from headhunters, recruitment agencies, or fee-based recruitment services. AMD and its subsidiaries are equal opportunity, inclusive employers and will consider all applicants without regard to age, ancestry, color, marital status, medical condition, mental or physical disability, national origin, race, religion, political and/or third-party affiliation, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.   We encourage applications from all qualified candidates and will accommodate applicants’ needs under the respective laws throughout all stages of the recruitment and selection process.

AMD may use Artificial Intelligence to help screen, assess or select applicants for this position.  AMD’s “Responsible AI Policy” is available here.

 

This posting is for an existing vacancy.

Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

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