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Failure Investigation Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Failure Analysis Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$142K - $169K/yr

Investigate failures from manufacturing, system integration, reliability testing, customer returns ... failure analysis, hardware validation, quality engineering, reliability engineering, or ...

Investigate failures from manufacturing, system integration, reliability testing, customer returns ... failure analysis, hardware validation, quality engineering, reliability engineering, or ...

We are looking for a Failure Analysis Engineer who loves digging into tough hardware problems ... You will own investigations end to end, move quickly from evidence to insight, and work closely ...

We are looking for a Failure Analysis Engineer who loves digging into tough hardware problems ... You will own investigations end to end, move quickly from evidence to insight, and work closely ...

Failure Analysis Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$76K - $121K/yr

Description Silicon level Failure Analysis Engineer will perform device level failure analysis to ... investigations. • Provide corrective actions to internal and external customers based on the ...

Failure Analysis Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$76K - $121K/yr

Silicon level Failure Analysis Engineer will perform device level failure analysis to support RMA ... investigations. • Provide corrective actions to internal and external customers based on the ...

Failure Analysis Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$76K - $121K/yr

... failure investigations. Provide corrective actions to internal and external customers based on the ... Education: BS in Electronic Engineering or equivalent discipline is required; MSEE preferred. Power ...

Failure Analysis Engineer Location: Newark, DE Type: W2 Contract Industry: Medical Devices We are ... Key Responsibilities: • Investigate Out-of-Box Failures (OOBFs) and field failures. • Perform ...

JOB FUNCTION Responsible for investigating and determining the root causes of failures in ... Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field or four years of experience on failure ...

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Failure Investigation Engineer information

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$37K

$87.2K

$136.5K

How much do failure investigation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for failure investigation engineer in the United States is $87,220.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,500.00 and $97,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Failure Investigation Engineer do?

A Failure Investigation Engineer is responsible for analyzing and determining the causes of product or system failures in various industries, such as aerospace, automotive, or manufacturing. They examine failed components, conduct root cause analyses, and recommend corrective actions to prevent recurrence. This role often involves working with cross-functional teams, utilizing technical expertise in materials science, engineering principles, and data analysis to ensure product reliability and safety. Their findings help improve product design, manufacturing processes, and quality control.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Failure Investigation Engineer, and why are they important?

To excel as a Failure Investigation Engineer, you need a strong background in engineering principles, materials science, and root cause analysis, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with failure analysis tools such as scanning electron microscopes (SEM), non-destructive testing (NDT) methods, and experience with industry standards or certifications like Six Sigma is often required. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for interpreting data and presenting clear findings. These abilities are crucial to accurately diagnosing failures, preventing recurrence, and ensuring product safety and reliability.

How does a Failure Investigation Engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during the root cause analysis process?

A Failure Investigation Engineer works closely with cross-functional teams such as design, manufacturing, quality assurance, and supplier management to gather all relevant data and perspectives needed for thorough root cause analysis. This collaboration often involves joint meetings, sharing technical findings, and collectively brainstorming solutions to prevent recurrence. Clear communication and documentation are essential, as the engineer must ensure all stakeholders understand the investigation results and recommended corrective actions. This team-oriented approach not only enhances problem-solving but also fosters a culture of continuous improvement.

What is the difference between Failure Investigation Engineer vs Failure Analysis Technician?

AspectFailure Investigation EngineerFailure Analysis Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; certifications like ASQ CQE or CQA often preferredAssociate's or bachelor's degree in engineering, materials science, or related field; technical certifications beneficial
Work EnvironmentDesigns and leads failure investigations, analyzes complex data, collaborates with engineering teamsPerforms testing, collects data, prepares samples, supports failure analysis under supervision
Industry UsageCommonly employed in manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, and electronics industriesTypically found in laboratories, manufacturing plants, and quality assurance departments

The Failure Investigation Engineer focuses on leading complex failure analyses, interpreting data, and developing solutions, while the Failure Analysis Technician supports testing and data collection. Both roles are essential in quality and reliability processes, but the engineer has a broader scope and higher level of responsibility.

More about Failure Investigation Engineer jobs
What job categories do people searching Failure Investigation Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Failure Investigation Engineer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Failure Investigation Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,220 per year, or $41.9 per hour.
Consulting Engineer - Reliability & Failure Investigation

Consulting Engineer - Reliability & Failure Investigation

Matrix Engineering LLC

Eden Prairie, MN

$104K - $131K/yr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Matrix Engineering Consultants (www.matrixengrng.com) is an engineering consulting firm focused on solving complex, real-world technical challenges for companies that design and build demanding products and systems. We partner directly with OEMs and industrial innovators across off-highway equipment, specialty machinery, and renewable energy to diagnose difficult engineering problems, improve product reliability, and deliver practical solutions that perform in the field. Unlike traditional consulting firms that stop at analysis, Matrix works through implementation—helping clients move from insight to actionable results within real products. Matrix operates with the agility of a focused consulting firm while being supported by The RFA Group, providing a strong operational foundation, access to additional technical resources, and long-term stability.

Position Summary

In this position, the candidate will lead the Failure Investigation and Reliability consulting efforts of the company with the responsibility for developing and growing a focused service area. This role is responsible for helping clients understand complex field failures, determine likely root causes, and develop practical corrective actions that can be applied in the field and in future production and/or processes.

This position offers a unique opportunity to build and lead a service line within a growing consulting firm. Success in this role requires strong technical judgment, the ability to lead investigations with incomplete information, and a proactive approach to developing client relationships and new opportunities. The Consulting Engineer will play a central role in shaping how Matrix delivers failure investigation and reliability services, while also contributing to long-term client relationships.

Key Responsibilities

Failure Investigation & Engineering Analysis

  • Develop structured investigation plans, defining scope, evidence requirements, and deliverables
  • Perform and review engineering analysis of failures in conjunction with other Matrix personnel in areas that may include but not limited to reliability, structural evaluation, bolted joint analysis, and load path assessment
  • Apply root cause analysis (RCA) methodologies to determine likely failure mechanisms

Client Leadership & Technical Consulting

  • Serve as the primary technical lead for client-facing investigations
  • Build trust with OEMs, operators, and other stakeholders during critical field failure events
  • Facilitate collaborative problem-solving across multiple parties
  • Translate investigation results into clear, actionable recommendations

Service Development & Business Growth

  • Lead the development and growth of Matrix’s failure investigation and reliability service offering
  • Establish investigation methods, reporting approaches, and service delivery standards
  • Develop client relationships and proactively identify new opportunities
  • Convert initial investigation work into broader engineering engagements and long-term partnerships

Technical Leadership & Mentorship

  • Mentor engineers in field investigation, analytical thinking, and client communication
  • Support development of repeatable tools, methods, and internal capabilities
  • Contribute to training, technical content, and knowledge sharing

Professional Development & Industry Engagement

  • Maintain professional licensure and industry involvement
  • Contribute to technical publications, presentations, or industry-facing content
  • Support Matrix’s visibility in reliability and failure investigation

Minimum Qualifications

  • Bachelor degree in Mechanical, Systems, or Structural Engineering (or closely related field)
  • 10+ years of engineering experience in consulting, analysis, reliability, or related technical leadership roles
  • Professional Engineer (PE) or Structural Engineer (SE) license required
  • Demonstrated expertise in engineering analysis, problem solving, and client-facing work
  • Experience leading or supporting failure investigations, root cause analysis, or corrective action development
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, including technical reporting and presentations
  • Ability to lead work with incomplete information and develop practical solutions
  • Willingness to travel for client work, including field investigations and site visits

Differentiating Qualifications

  • Background in finite element analysis, fatigue analysis, or structural analysis
  • Experience in a particular field such as renewable energy, off-highway equipment, or industrial systems
  • Familiarity with formal RCA methodologies or standards
  • Experience working with testing laboratories or external technical partners
  • Demonstrated ability to mentor engineers and build technical capability
  • Industry involvement, publications, or technical presentations

Work Environment

  • Full-time role based on a mix of office, client site, and field work
  • Travel required for investigations, client meetings, and industry engagement
  • Work includes time-sensitive response to field failures and coordination with multiple stakeholders
  • Exposure to industrial, construction, renewable energy, and outdoor field environments may be required

Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position.

Pay Range: $110,000 to $145,000 – Commensurate with experience

This is a full-time position with a full benefit package listed below

Competitive Benefits

  • Health Insurance
  • Company Paid Virtual Health Care
  • Health Savings Account
  • Dental Insurance
  • Supplemental Vision Insurance
  • Company Paid / Supplemental Life Insurance
  • Company Paid Long-Term Disability
  • Supplemental Short-Term Disability
  • Flexible Spending Plan Dependent Care
  • Retirement Savings Account (Traditional 401k & Roth 401k)
  • Flexible Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Bereavement Leave
  • Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
  • Education Assistance

Equal Opportunity and Veteran Friendly