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Failure Analysis Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Develop and maintain Process Failure Mode Effect Analysis for areas of responsibility. * Improves production line efficiency to show a measurable increase in OEE. * Support maintenance in equipment ...

Description We are seeking a Lab Technician to support prototyping, testing, and failure analysis activities for new and existing automotive products in Fishers, IN. This is a short-term position ...

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Failure Analysis information

See Indiana salary details

$14

$26

$39

How much do failure analysis jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for failure analysis in Indiana is $26.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.88 and $28.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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, 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 some common challenges faced 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 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 Indiana? The most popular types of Failure Analysis jobs in Indiana are:
What are popular job titles related to Failure Analysis jobs in Indiana? For Failure Analysis jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Failure Analysis job openings in Indiana as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 37% Full Time, 48% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 12% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,293 per year, or $26.6 per hour.
Materials Science and Engineering - Co-Op Positions

Materials Science and Engineering - Co-Op Positions

Cummins

Columbus, IN

$3.90K - $5K/wk

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago


Cummins rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 244 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

104th of 511 rated manufacturers


Job description

In this role, you will make an impact in the following ways:  

  • Utilize knowledge of Materials Science, Materials Engineering or Analytical Chemistry principles and practices to identify and advance solutions to achieve design, manufacturing, and quality goals.  
  • Work cross-functionally on projects that require materials and fluids guidance on topics such as material and process selection, failure analysis, chemical and microstructural characterization, chemical metrology, and process pertaining to manufacturing and quality issues.  
  • Utilize the core relationships between structure, composition, and processing to optimize performance of the component or fluid within its system.  
  • Apply the principles of surface engineering to manipulate wear, strength, and corrosion resistance of components.  
  • Evaluate component requirements regarding form and function to identify base material and processing options.  
  • Select manufacturing route, material and process based on best-fit option(s) aligned to requirements.  
  • Use spectroscopy methods, microstructural evaluation, mechanical property measurements, non-destructive inspection methods, and specialized tools regarding wear and corrosion on in-process, tested, or field-returned parts or fluids.  
  • May include activities in analytically investigating product or manufacturing problems and recommending appropriate actions for problem resolution and/or optimization  
  • Supervised execution using your understanding of fundamental Physics and Chemistry to understand causal mechanisms, recommend appropriate action and documenting problem resolutions.  
  • Actively collaborating with key stakeholders and colleagues, communicating analysis results to impact and support the successful advancement of projects. 

Using tools related materials science and chemistry such as:  

  • SEM  
  • Optical Microscopy  
  • Chemical Spectroscopy methods  
  • X-ray diffraction and radiography techniques  
  • Magma or other process simulation tools  
  • Wear testing  
  • Magnetic Particle, Eddy Current and other NDE methods  
  • Knowledge of Industry Standards  
Cummins is an equal opportunity employer. Our policy is to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified persons without regard to race, sex, color, disability, national origin, age, religion, union affiliation, sexual orientation, veteran status, citizenship, gender identity, or other status protected by law.

2026 Monthly Salary Range by Degree Level: 

  • Bachelor's - $3,900 - $5,000 
  • Master's - $6,000 
  • PhD - $7,300  

Please note that the salary range provided is a good faith estimate on the applicable range. The final salary offer will be determined after considering relevant factors, including a candidate's qualifications and experience, where appropriate. 

Co-Op program criteria:  

  • Must be a full-time enrolled student pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree at an accredited U.S. college/University  
  • Minimum 2.5 or above GPA preferred  
  • Must be able to complete a minimum of 4-months to 6-months or a maximum of a 12-months commitment - Must be able to complete 40 hours per week  
  • Willingness to learn from others on the job
  • Must be currently residing within the continental U.S. 

Cummins and E-verify  

At Cummins, we are an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer dedicated to diversity in the workplace. Our  policy is to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified persons without regard to race, gender, color, disability,  national origin, age, religion, union affiliation, sexual orientation, veteran status, citizenship, gender identity and/or  expression, or other status protected by law. Cummins validates right to work using E-Verify. Cummins will provide the  Social Security Administration (SSA) and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), with information  from each new employee's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization.   

Ready to think beyond your desk? Apply for this opportunity to start your career with Cummins today. careers.cummins.com 

Not ready to apply but want to learn more? Join our Talent Community to get the inside track on great jobs and  confidentially connect to our recruiting team: http://connect.find.ly/cummins  

To be successful in this role you will need the following:  

  • Component Failure Analysis  
  • Component Material and Process Selection  
  • Applies Principles of Tribology  
  • Non-Destructive Evaluation  
  • Material Characterization  
  • Joining and Bonding Science 
  • Applies Principles of Surface Engineering  
  • Decision Quality  
  • Drives Results  
  • Collaborates  
  • Communicates Effectively Self-Development  

Degree Programs Considered: Bachelor's, Master's, PhD  

Major Programs Typically Considered: All Engineering Majors  


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About Cummins

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Cummins Inc., headquartered in Columbus, IN, US, is a global power leader that designs, manufactures, and distributes numerous power products and systems. With its genesis from as early as 1919, the company readily serves diverse industries such as transportation, industrial, generator drive, or marine applications, among others. At the heart of Cummins' operations, its key product lineup encompasses diesel & natural gas engines, generator sets, engine components, and filtration, emission solutions, and electrical power generation systems. Cummins deeply embodies core values of integrity, respect for diversity, teamwork, performance excellence, and social responsibility - all of which dynamically fuel their mission 'Making people's lives better by powering a more prosperous world'.

Industry

Transportation equipment manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Columbus, IN, US

Year founded

1919