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Failure Analysis Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

This role performs detailed failure analysis, electrical and mechanical testing, root cause investigations, and technical documentation to determine the cause of reported product issues. The engineer ...

Follows site standards for in-depth failure analysis. * Establish the team necessary to complete failure analysis when required. Effectively compare failed part against new part to identify all ...

Condition Monitoring Analyst

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$30.97 - $37.15/hr

Knowledge of failure analysis principles to aid in the analysis of filter and magnetic plug debris * Basic computer skills required, familiarization with Microsoft Office usage - will need to be able ...

Condition Monitoring Analyst

Bloomington, MN · On-site

$30.97 - $37.15/hr

Knowledge of failure analysis principles to aid in the analysis of filter and magnetic plug debris * Basic computer skills required, familiarization with Microsoft Office usage - will need to be able ...

Communicate testing results to teams. * Assist engineers in failure analysis and CAPA activities, including assignment as a CAPA project member. * Support process and product qualification activities.

Chaska, MN (Fully Onsite) Terms: Long-Term-Contract Job Summary: • Perform field failure analysis on parts identified by customer • Verify correctness of quality issue • Perform RCA on the ...

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Provide failure analysis of product rejected both internally & returns to accurately provide corrective action & recurrence prevention. * Daily evaluate rejects resulting in restart orders, provide ...

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Failure Analysis information

See Minnesota salary details

$14

$27

$40

How much do failure analysis jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for failure analysis in Minnesota is $27.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.56 and $29.18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 engineers make $500,000?

Senior failure analysis engineers in specialized industries such as aerospace, semiconductor, or oil and gas can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership roles. High compensation often involves working in high-demand fields, managing complex projects, and possessing expertise in failure mechanisms, materials, and testing tools.

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 engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior failure analysis engineers in specialized industries such as aerospace, semiconductor, or oil and gas can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership roles. High-level engineers often work in environments requiring advanced technical skills, problem-solving, and sometimes management responsibilities.

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 engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior failure analysis engineers, especially those with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and expertise in specialized industries like aerospace, semiconductor, or automotive, can earn $200,000 or more annually. High salaries often reflect leadership roles, advanced technical skills, and the ability to manage complex investigations using tools like failure analysis microscopes and testing equipment.

What does a failure analyst do?

A failure analyst examines products, materials, or components to determine the causes of failure or malfunction. They use techniques such as microscopy, testing, and data analysis to identify issues, often working in laboratory or manufacturing environments and requiring knowledge of materials science and engineering principles.

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 popular job titles related to Failure Analysis jobs in Minnesota? For Failure Analysis jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Failure Analysis job openings in Minnesota as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,911 per year, or $27.4 per hour.

Senior Managing Consultant (Metallurgy)

Engineering Systems Inc

Minneapolis, MN • On-site

$109K - $149K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

About ESi

Engineering Systems Inc. (ESi) is an engineering and scientific investigation and failure analysis firm. We are frequently retained by law firms, insurance companies, and manufacturers to answer complex technical questions on projects ranging from small, focused investigations to large-scale, high-profile losses.


Our work spans a wide range of challenges, including major transportation accidents, equipment and product failures, personal injury claims, and damage to residential, commercial, and industrial structures. The variety, complexity, and real-world impact of our projects create deeply fulfilling and intellectually engaging careers for our consultants.


At ESi, you’ll have the opportunity to shape your own path while being supported by a collaborative culture, national expertise, and industry-leading resources.


Why ESi

ESi’s Materials Practice focuses on hands-on failure analysis and advanced material characterization across industries. With access to a network of in-house laboratories, engineers evaluate material behavior and performance in a collaborative environment that emphasizes technical rigor and continuous development.


Key Responsibilities

  • Plans, directs, and coordinates complex forensic investigations and multidisciplinary projects as a senior metallurgical and materials engineering expert.
  • Directs and oversees metallurgical laboratory work, site inspections, and failure analysis investigations.
  • Performs and supervises advanced forensic root cause failure analysis in industrial, insurance, and litigation projects.
  • Authors and reviews high-quality technical reports; provides expert opinions on metallurgical and materials engineering matters.
  • Provides expert testimony at deposition and trial.
  • Conducts well-developed and well-prepared client presentations.
  • Establishes work plan and staffing for each phase of project, and arranges for assignment of project personnel.
  • Directs and coordinates projects and teams within prescribed schedule and budget scopes.
  • Works with Business Development to identify potential clients and strategies to build client base.
  • Actively participates in Business Development activities, including client meetings, presentations, and appropriate conferences.
  • Mentors consultants and senior consultants in technical and professional development.
  • Actively seeks to develop professionally in skills, experience, and industry reputation.

Qualifications

Education / Certifications / Licenses Required

  • Bachelor’s degree in Metallurgy, Materials Engineering, and/or Materials Science or related field required; Master’s or Ph.D. strongly preferred.
  • Licensed Professional Engineer (P.E.) required.

Experience Required

  • 6+ years of technical litigation consulting experience, with deep expertise in metallurgy and materials failure analysis.
  • CWI, CQE, or API certifications are a plus.
  • Track record authoring high-quality technical reports and/or peer-reviewed publications.
  • Extensive deposition and trial experience as a testifying expert; established client relationships and book of business strongly preferred.

Other Technical & Non-Technical Skills

  • Excellent technical (metallurgical/materials) and critical thinking skills; excellent written and oral communication skills.
  • Ability to communicate complex technical topics and findings effectively to a wide variety of audiences.
  • Laboratory equipment experience including stereoscopy (KEYENCE), microscopy, metallography, and sample preparation.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite; must be available to travel occasionally as part of the national practice.

What We Can Offer You

We believe great work happens when people feel supported, challenged, and trusted. Some of the benefits we offer include:


  • Medical, Dental & Vision
  • Life Insurance/Voluntary Life Insurance/Universal Life Insurance
  • 401k with employer match
  • Pet Insurance
  • Competitive salary with merit-based or annual bonus programs
  • Flexible Time Off (FTO) – encouraged to take 20 days of paid time off/year
  • 10 paid holidays (9 standard holidays and 1 floating holiday)
  • Work/Life Balance in a collaborative working environment
  • Wellness Reimbursement
  • Career Growth & Continuing education opportunities


Total compensation includes a competitive base salary and bonus opportunity, with final pay determined by job-related factors such as experience, qualifications, individual performance, and overall company performance.


Physical Demands

This role requires frequently sitting or standing for extended periods of time and occasionally lifting and/or moving items weighing up to 50 pounds, with infrequent lifting up to 75 pounds. The work regularly requires bending, twisting, kneeling, crouching, and maintaining balance. This position frequently requires handling and operating specialized tools and equipment and working in a variety of physical positions, including occasionally accessing tight or confined spaces. The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.

Work Environment

Work is performed in both office and field environments, including active construction sites, industrial settings, and damaged or compromised structures. The work environment may include exposure to varying noise levels, weather conditions, uneven terrain, and site-specific hazards. Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) may be required depending on site conditions. The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee may encounter while performing the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.


To all recruitment agencies: ESi does not accept unsolicited resumes from search firms or agencies. Any resume submitted to any employee of ESi without a prior written search agreement will be considered unsolicited and the property of ESi. Please, no phone calls or emails.

ESi is an equal opportunity employer committed to attracting and retaining the most qualified individuals based on merit, experience, and skills. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, or veteran status. In accordance with applicable laws, ESi actively supports the employment of veterans and individuals with disabilities.