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Principal Failure Analysis Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Failure Analysis Engineer will monitor test failure trends in NPI, provide corrective actions to improve production test yields, and assist this L10/L11 Test Engineering Department as needed.

Samtec is seeking a Failure Analysis Engineer to join the Engineering Support Group (ESG) team based in Colorado Springs, CO. If your favorite part of engineering is rolling up your sleeves, tearing ...

A failure analysis engineer for the process integration team will be responsible for failure analysis of semiconductor optical laser devices. He/She should have experience with front-end and back-end ...

As a Failure Analysis Engineer, you will investigate failures from fielded systems, development testing, life testing, and manufacturing. You will help reproduce failures, isolate electrical faults ...

Failure Analysis Engineer

Rancho Cordova, CA · On-site

$121K - $194K/yr

This Senior Failure Analysis Engineer will debug Solid State Drive (SSD) failures discovered during internal validation as well as field failures from our customers. They will need to work on variety ...

Showing results 41-60

Principal Failure Analysis Engineer information

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$74K

$147.2K

$212.5K

How much do principal failure analysis engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal failure analysis engineer in the United States is $147,220.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $118,500.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a principal failure analysis engineer?

Principal Failure Analysis Engineers are senior-level professionals who investigate the causes of product or system failures, often within industries like electronics, manufacturing, or aerospace. They lead technical teams in analyzing failed components, identifying root causes, and recommending corrective actions to improve reliability. Their work involves using advanced testing techniques, collaborating with design and quality teams, and documenting findings for both immediate fixes and long-term improvements. With extensive experience, they also mentor junior engineers and help shape failure analysis strategies for their organizations.

How does a principal failure analysis engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams to resolve complex product issues?

As a Principal Failure Analysis Engineer, you will frequently work alongside design, manufacturing, quality assurance, and reliability teams to diagnose and address product failures. Collaboration often involves leading root cause investigations, presenting findings, and recommending corrective actions during cross-functional meetings. Your expertise is crucial in guiding teams through technical challenges, ensuring that solutions are both practical and aligned with product requirements. Effective communication and teamwork are key, as you'll be bridging the gap between technical analysis and actionable improvements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a principal failure analysis engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Principal Failure Analysis Engineer, you need a deep understanding of materials science, electronics, and semiconductor physics, usually backed by an advanced degree in engineering or a related field. Expertise with analytical tools like electron microscopy (SEM/TEM), spectroscopy, and failure analysis software, along with industry certifications such as Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE), is often required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate complex technical findings clearly are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure accurate root cause analysis, effective collaboration across teams, and the delivery of actionable solutions to enhance product reliability.

What is the difference between Principal Failure Analysis Engineer vs Failure Analysis Engineer?

AspectPrincipal Failure Analysis EngineerFailure Analysis Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Engineering, certifications in failure analysisBachelor's or Master's in Engineering, certifications in failure analysis
Work EnvironmentLead failure investigations, oversee teams, strategic planningConduct failure investigations, analyze data, support engineering teams
Industry UsageUsed in advanced manufacturing, aerospace, electronicsCommon in manufacturing, electronics, automotive
Search IntentComparing senior roles, responsibilities, expertiseEntry to mid-level failure analysis roles

The Principal Failure Analysis Engineer typically holds a senior position, leading failure investigations and strategic planning, while the Failure Analysis Engineer focuses on conducting investigations and supporting engineering teams. Both roles require similar technical credentials, but the principal role involves more leadership and oversight. Understanding these differences helps job seekers and employers align expectations and responsibilities effectively.

What cities are hiring for Principal Failure Analysis Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Principal Failure Analysis Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Principal Failure Analysis Engineer jobs?

For Principal Failure Analysis Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Principal Failure Analysis Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,220 per year, or $70.8 per hour.

Failure Analysis Engineer

Mount Pleasant, WI • On-site

$65K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Description
FII USA, Inc., a Foxconn Technology Group Company, is seeking a Failure Analysis Engineer to perform engineering investigations of significant customer field and line escalations related to hardware issues and collaborate with numerous internal engineering disciplines to resolve hardware issues. Once a part of the team, you will be responsible for a wide variety of tasks within the L10/L11 Test Engineering Department in an office environment and have the opportunity to display critical thinking skills to expand your career in Smart Manufacturing.
The Failure Analysis Engineer will monitor test failure trends in NPI, provide corrective actions to improve production test yields, and assist this L10/L11 Test Engineering Department as needed.

Responsibilities
  • Interface with customers and internal cross-functional teams to root cause hardware issues to the component level
  • Perform engineering investigations of significant customer field and line escalations related to hardware issues
  • Monitor test failure trends in NPI and provide corrective actions to improve production test yields
  • Design and develop debug tools to improve debug process and efficiency
  • Provide training to technicians and debug team on new and existing debug procedures and product troubleshooting
  • Support internal communications of techniques and processes for WW RMA & Service Centers
  • Drive "best practices" across WW Operational, RMA & Service Sites
  • Program manage CSP/Enterprise account Reliability requirements
  • Facilitate Reliability strategy discussions
  • Other duties as assigned


Qualifications
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in electrical or computer engineering required
  • Minimum of 4 years' experience designing and debugging Industry Standard Computing platforms required
  • Experience in hardware/firmware/software development and test methodologies preferred
  • Knowledge of key server technologies including Intel, AMD, ARM multi-core microprocessors, DDR 4/5 and NAND memory, and PCA design preferred


Reasons you should work for us:
  • Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
  • Basic life insurance and short-term disability coverage provided by employer.
  • Supplemental life insurance and long-term disability coverage options available.
  • 401K with employer contribution.
  • Personal, Vacation, and Holiday paid time off for all full-time employees.
  • Onsite Aurora Health & Wellness Center available for all employees.
  • Employees are continuously encouraged to learn and grow their careers in smart manufacturing.