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Semiconductor Failure Analysis Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Failure Analysis Technician

Newbury Park, CA · On-site

$33.22 - $58.37/hr

Basic understanding of semiconductor packaging and process highly desired. * Previous experience working in a semiconductor failure analysis lab, including performing decapsulation (mechanical, laser ...

Basic understanding of semiconductor packaging and process highly desired. * Previous experience working in a semiconductor failure analysis lab, including performing decapsulation (mechanical, laser ...

Failure analysis laboratory process engineer in Fayetteville, AR. Individual will provide support ... Working knowledge of semiconductor process technology and device functionality * Great soft skills ...

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Semiconductor Failure Analysis information

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How much do semiconductor failure analysis jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for semiconductor failure analysis in the United States is $27.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.04 and $29.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is semiconductor failure analysis?

Semiconductor failure analysis is the process of investigating and determining the root causes of defects or malfunctions in semiconductor devices, such as microchips and integrated circuits. This involves various techniques like microscopy, electrical testing, and material analysis to pinpoint where and why a failure has occurred. Failure analysis is crucial in improving product reliability, guiding design improvements, and supporting quality control in semiconductor manufacturing. Professionals in this field work closely with engineers and manufacturers to identify issues, prevent future failures, and enhance overall device performance.

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

To thrive as a Semiconductor Failure Analysis Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, materials science, or physics, often supported by a relevant bachelor’s or master’s degree. Familiarity with analytical tools like scanning electron microscopes (SEM), focused ion beam (FIB) systems, and failure analysis software is typically required, along with knowledge of industry standards. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for interpreting results and collaborating with cross-functional teams. These competencies ensure accurate identification of root causes and help drive improvements in device reliability and manufacturing processes.

What is the difference between Semiconductor Failure Analysis vs Semiconductor Test Engineer?

AspectSemiconductor Failure AnalysisSemiconductor Test Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degree, certifications in failure analysisEngineering degree, certifications in testing and validation
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, cleanrooms, failure analysis labsProduction lines, testing labs, R&D facilities
Industry UsageUsed to identify and troubleshoot device failuresUsed to verify device performance and quality

Semiconductor Failure Analysts focus on diagnosing and troubleshooting device failures using specialized techniques, while Semiconductor Test Engineers develop and execute testing procedures to ensure device quality. Both roles require engineering backgrounds and work closely within the semiconductor industry, but their primary objectives differ: failure analysis aims to identify issues, whereas testing ensures product reliability.

What are some common challenges faced in a Semiconductor Failure Analysis role, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Semiconductor Failure Analysis often encounter challenges such as identifying root causes of complex failures, working with highly miniaturized and sensitive devices, and keeping up with evolving semiconductor technologies. Addressing these challenges requires a methodical approach to testing and analysis, strong collaboration with design and manufacturing teams, and ongoing training on the latest analytical techniques and tools. Developing effective communication skills is also crucial, as findings must be clearly reported to both technical and non-technical stakeholders to guide corrective actions.
More about Semiconductor Failure Analysis jobs
What cities are hiring for Semiconductor Failure Analysis jobs? Cities with the most Semiconductor Failure Analysis job openings:
What states have the most Semiconductor Failure Analysis jobs? States with the most job openings for Semiconductor Failure Analysis jobs include:
Infographic showing various Semiconductor Failure Analysis job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $58,107 per year, or $27.9 per hour.
Principal Failure Analysis Technician

Principal Failure Analysis Technician

Globalfoundries

Malta, NY

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago


GlobalFoundries rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 34 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

80th of 527 rated manufacturers


Job description

About GlobalFoundries:

GlobalFoundries is a leading full-service semiconductor foundry providing a unique combination of design, development, and fabrication services to some of the world's most inspired technology companies. With a global manufacturing footprint spanning three continents, GlobalFoundries makes possible the technologies and systems that transform industries and give customers the power to shape their markets. For more information, visit www.gf.com.

Summary of Role:

This position is in the Failure Analysis Laboratory in GLOBALFOUNDRIES' 300mm fab in Malta, New York. The ideal candidate will have some technical understanding in semiconductor failure analysis using sample preparation, imaging, and analytical techniques. The candidate will have a solid understanding of semiconductor technology and manufacturing.

Essential Responsibilities:

Technical Expertise & Execution

  • Perform advanced failure analysis techniques including:
    • TEM (Transmission Electron Microscopy) sample preparation and imaging
    • SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy) analysis
    • FIB (Focused Ion Beam) cross-sectioning and related techniques
    • Top down deprocessing
    • Chemical operation
  • Execute complex analytical tasks independently, ensuring high-quality, accurate, and repeatable results
  • Apply advanced problem-solving to troubleshoot challenging samples, processes, or tool issues

Flexible Support Across Lab Operations

  • Provide flexible cross-functional support
  • Adapt to changing business priorities, including urgent customer requests and workload shifts
  • Support multiple technologies, products, and sample types to maintain throughput and efficiency

Operational Excellence & Tool Ownership

  • Serve as a subject matter expert (SME) on one or more analytical techniques
  • Troubleshoot tool issues and drive improvements to existing processes and procedures
  • Perform basic preventive maintenance activities of analytical equipment as needed. Assure smooth operation by minimizing stand-by and idle time
  • Contribute to development and refinement of Standard operating procedures (SOPs) and Best-known methods (BKMs)

Collaboration & Communication

  • Interact with lab engineers & managers defining analytical methods needed to achieve expected results, meeting expectations of analyses and interpretation of results
  • Communicate job status, technical challenges, and results effectively
  • Support cross-functional teams to resolve complex failure modes

Leadership & Mentorship

  • Providing technical guidance and mentorship to junior technicians with strong work ethic and proactively promotes a positive work environment
  • Support training efforts across TEM, SEM, and FIB disciplines
  • Lead or contribute to technical problem-solving initiatives and team improvements
  • Good team player, strong work ethic, train new team members as needed and other duties as assigned, and proactively promotes a positive work environment

Continuous Improvement

  • Identify and implement opportunities to improve quality, productivity and throughput
  • Participate in continuous improvement (CIP) initiatives and lab optimization efforts

Other Responsibilities

  • Understand and follow all health, safety, and environmental procedures and requirements
  • Conduct routine analytical jobs using defined and documented procedures meeting or exceeding cycle time and quality standard expectations
  • Interact with lab engineers & managers defining analytical methods needed to achieve expected results, meeting expectations of analyses and interpretation of results

Required Qualification

  • Education - 2 Year Technical/Associates Degree in Science, Math, Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Semiconductor Manufacturing or a related discipline or equivalent military training / experience.
  • Significant experience in semiconductor failure analysis or analytical lab environment
  • Strong experience with:
    • TEM / SEM sample preparation and analysis
    • Analytical tool operation and troubleshooting
  • Demonstrated ability to execute complex tasks independently Fluency in English Language - written & verbal
  • Able to perform shift work on a 12 hour per day schedule
  • Able to follow work and safety procedures for the laboratory environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Strong understanding of semiconductor device structures and processes
  • Experience supporting high-volume manufacturing environments
  • Proven ability to manage multiple priorities with high attention to detail Semiconductor process knowledge
  • Advanced experience using SEM, FIB, finger Polishing, chemical etching, TEM sample preparation
  • Able to follow detailed instructions and procedures to complete tasks and required documentation; demonstrate solid work performance in an environment requiring a high level of attention to detail and timeliness
  • Direct experience working in an analytical laboratory, preferably related to failure analysis, materials science, inorganic chemistry or semiconductor manufacturing would be an advantage
  • Direct knowledge of one or more analysis methodologies used in failure analysis for state-of-the-art semiconductor manufacturing

Expected Salary Range

$58,400.00 - $100,800.00

The exact Salary will be determined based on qualifications, experience and location.

If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please contact us by email at usaccommodations@gf.com and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Requests for accommodation will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Please note that only inquiries concerning a request for reasonable accommodation will be responded to from this email address.

An offer with GlobalFoundries is conditioned upon the successful completion of pre-employment conditions, as applicable, and subject to applicable laws and regulations.

GlobalFoundries is fully committed to equal opportunity in the workplace and believes that cultural diversity within the company enhances its business potential. GlobalFoundries goal of excellence in business necessitates the attraction and retention of highly qualified people. Artificial barriers and stereotypic biases detract from this objective and may be illegally discriminatory.

All policies and processes which pertain to employees including recruitment, selection, training, utilization, promotion, compensation, benefits, extracurricular programs, and termination are created and implemented without regard to age, ethnicity, ancestry, color, marital status, medical condition, mental or physical disability, national origin, race, religion, political and/or third-party affiliation, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other characteristic or category specified by local, state or federal law


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