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Failure Analysis Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Carded Radiographer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$50 - $70/hr

Committed to delivering a Higher Level of Reliability, Acuren provides an unrivaled spectrum of capabilities including inspection, traditional and advanced NDE/NDT, failure analysis, rope access ...

New

Senior Construction Manager

Nevada, IA · On-site

$140 - $170/hr

Drive teams to perform troubleshooting and root-cause failure analysis associated with equipment failures. * Project Start-Up task tracking including contracts, proposal letters, work authorizations ...

New

Reliability Engineer

Nevada, IA · On-site

$90 - $125/hr

Identify root causes and develop engineering solutions for equipment reliability problems through "Bad Actor" and cost analysis, Root Cause Failure Analysis (RCFA), Failure Mode and Effect Analysis ...

The successful individual will help implement the root cause failure analysis processes, build out the analytical tools for assessing underperforming assets, and optimize our maintenance strategies ...

The successful individual will help implement the root cause failure analysis processes, build out the analytical tools for assessing underperforming assets, and optimize our maintenance strategies ...

Uses maintenance expertise, analytical troubleshooting and root cause failure analysis to recommend and implement corrective system improvements. This will include the examination of parts for ...

Work closely with the Quality group to ensure supplier provides failure analysis, root cause determination and corrective action. (5) Respond to change productively and handle other duties as ...

Showing results 41-60

Failure Analysis information

See Iowa salary details

$14

$26

$39

How much do failure analysis jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for failure analysis in Iowa is $26.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.60 and $27.98 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.
Infographic showing various Failure Analysis job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,578 per year, or $26.2 per hour.

Director of Maintenance & Utilities

Seaboard Triumph Foods

Sioux City, IA

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago


Seaboard Triumph Foods rating

4.2

Company rating: 4.2 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

434th of 443 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

SUMMARY: Responsible for the strategic oversight and leadership required to operate and maintain a 975,000 square foot animal protein production facility which includes a 195,000-pound ammonia system, 32-million-gallon wastewater treatment facility, rendering and steam generation operation, thirty-eight (38) million pound distribution center, axis robotic and automation systems. Leads a team consisting of 8 direct reports and 200+ maintenance technicians and specialist. This team is charged with planning and scheduling, preventive and corrective maintenance activities, maintenance reliability, maintenance skills training and development, special projects, and facility enhancements designed to look at product and workforce improvements. Focused on maintaining production efficiencies within budgetary parameters and driving continuous improvement.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: This list is not intended to be all-inclusive and other duties may be assigned.

  • Responsible for aligning the business strategy to technology and innovation available that would provide feasible and realistic options.
  • Uses data analytics to monitor systems and processes, make projections, and provide solutions and options to better manage the facility in a sustainable and effective manner.
  • Responsible for and the authority on generating all needed information to support appropriations requests (AR's) for the facility.
  • Oversees root cause failure analysis (RCFA) for chronic or catastrophic equipment failures and ensure corrective actions are implemented and sustained.
  • Acts as the facility expert to interpret an extensive variety of technical instructions with several abstract and concrete variables.
  • Collaborates with all stakeholders to ensure success. Understands the role of business ethics in building professional relationships with contractors, suppliers, and vendors to ensure successful expectations, negotiations, and outcomes.
  • Propose, design and introduce options for new equipment, automation, and process design within the facility to maximize production and labor efficiencies while improving product quality.
  • Owns companywide reliability strategy, including predictive, preventative, and condition-based maintenance programs.
  • Responsible for maintenance onboarding and technical developmental training
  • Understands and is knowledgeable of all local, state, and federal laws and regulations including Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA), Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Ensures program execution and compliance in all areas.
  • Partners with Engineering and Projects to support capital project development and installment.
  • Analyses and tracks key performance indicators for all areas of responsibility.
  • Manages ground property management services in the aspects of snow removal, lawncare, landscaping, irrigation, trash removal, and parking lot upkeep.
  • Establish andmaintaincritical asset rankings for all production, packaging, refrigeration, rendering, wastewater, and utility systems.Coordinating contractor work along with unscheduled work.
  • Participate as a key stakeholder in selection, on-boarding, training, and development of employees engaged in all levels of maintenance activity.
  • Responsible for obtaining MOCs, writing appropriation requests and completing capital projects in an efficient and cost-effective manner.
  • Analyze asset lifecycle data, downtime trends, and failure history to drive reliability improvements and capital planning.
  • Is professionally responsible for thermal, refrigeration, compressed air, hazardous gases, wastewater, steam, electrical, water, natural gas, HVAC, ammonia systems, sustainability, and compliance in a safe, compliant, and efficient manner.
  • Lead activities which requires the ability to manage through the unpredictability of operational issues.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the work environment, knowledge, skill, and/or ability required or preferred. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:

  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical or electrical engineering preferred or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • 5-8 years of experience working with ammonia refrigeration and freezer systems.
  • Wide and deep management experience 8+ years with demonstrated leadership and people development skills.
  • Proven experience developing strategy and policy to set and deliver objectives within medium to long term timeframes.
  • Strong electrical background (PLC, instrumentation, industrial electrical experience) preferred
  • Strong Waste Water experience preferred

COMMUNICATION SKILLS: Must have excellent written and verbal communication skills. Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, and/or governmental regulations. Ability to write reports and business correspondence. Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from management, and employees. Must have the ability to influence and persuade others.

LANGUAGE SKILLS: Ability to read and interpret documents in the English language such as safety files, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals. Must be able to effectively communicate with the USDA, customers, sales, production and management personnel. Bilingual skills a plus.

MATHEMATICAL SKILLS: Ability to apply mathematical applications to practical situations.

REASONING ABILITY: Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions. Ability to interpret an extensive variety of technical instructions in mathematical, diagram, written and/or verbal form and deal with several abstract and concrete variables.

OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES: Strong personal computer skills and understanding of operational metrics and reports required; MP2 CMMS desired; CAD experience a plus. MPS/SFK equipment understanding, both mechanically and electrically strongly desired. SQF/HACCP certification preferred. Must hold a valid driver's license due to regular business travel.

MISSION, VISION, & VALUES: Must believe and lead STF's MISSION of producing quality pork products, igniting the passion and growth of our team members, helping our community thrive, and making our business prosperous. Remembering that together we will achieve more by working safely and cultivating an inclusive and empowering environment. Must believe and fully engage in STF's VISION of being a place where we all belong, working as one, to build our future. Must live STF's VALUES in all decisions, behaviors, and interactions, which include-

SAFETY- Be committed to the safety and welfare of all employees through prevention, education, and awareness, with the ultimate goal of eliminating workplace accidents.

QUALITY- Our customers and families depend on us to provide a safe, quality product, by maintaining the highest food safety standards and desired customer specifications. Must take pride in the products we produce and serve.

DIVERSITY- We embrace diversity of identity, experience, and thought, and actively strive for inclusive behaviors across our company and our work. By promoting these values, we aim to create a positive work experience that encourage a sense of belonging.

COMMUNITY- Be a positive representative of STF in our community while supporting the organizations who work for the betterment of Siouxland.

SUSTAINABILITY- Be a steward of the earth by managing our environmental footprint.


PHYSICAL DEMANDS
: While performing the duties of this job, the employee will be required to move about the facility. The employee is required to sit; use hands to finger; handle; or feel/hold objects; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; speak; hear taste and smell. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 25 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 40 pounds, and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. Individual must be able to effectively work in a normal production environment where temperatures and noise levels may vary, including climate extremes and a loud work environment. Generally, the incumbent may stand and walk for extended periods of time and also must be able to sit and use a computer for extended periods of time.

WORK ENVIRONMENT: While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to hot, cold and/or humid conditions. The employee frequently works near moving mechanical parts. The employee is occasionally exposed to fumes or airborne particles, risk of electrical shock and vibration may exist. The noise level in the work environment is usually loud requiring hearing protection in all protection areas.


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