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Sr Failure Analysis Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Failure Analysis Engineer to join our world-class Failure Analysis Lab. In this role, you won't just solve problems-you will work at the dynamic ...

Senior Failure Analysis Engineer

Santa Clara, CA ยท On-site

$122K - $168K/yr

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Failure Analysis Engineer to join our world-class Failure Analysis Lab. In this role, you won't just solve problems-you will work at the dynamic ...

Failure Analysis Engineer

Rancho Cordova, CA ยท 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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Showing results 21-40

Sr Failure Analysis Engineer information

What does a Sr Failure Analysis Engineer do?

A Sr Failure Analysis Engineer investigates and determines the root causes of product or component failures in manufacturing or field environments. They use various analytical tools and techniques, such as microscopy, electrical testing, and material analysis, to examine failed products and recommend corrective actions. Their work helps improve product reliability, prevent recurring issues, and support quality assurance efforts. They also prepare detailed reports and collaborate with design, manufacturing, and quality teams to implement solutions.

What are some common challenges faced by a Sr Failure Analysis Engineer when working with cross-functional teams?

A Sr Failure Analysis Engineer often collaborates with design, manufacturing, and quality teams to identify the root causes of product failures. One common challenge is effectively communicating complex technical findings to non-engineering stakeholders and ensuring recommendations are clearly understood and actionable. Additionally, balancing multiple urgent failure investigations while maintaining detailed documentation and meeting tight deadlines can be demanding. Building strong cross-functional relationships and proactively sharing insights helps facilitate smoother collaboration and more successful problem resolution.

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

To thrive as a Sr Failure Analysis Engineer, you need a strong background in materials science, electronics, and failure analysis methodologies, usually supported by a degree in engineering or a related field. Expertise with analytical tools such as SEM, TEM, FIB, and industry-standard failure analysis software is typically required, along with knowledge of quality standards like Six Sigma or IPC. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and clear communication are key soft skills for effectively diagnosing issues and presenting findings to cross-functional teams. These competencies are vital for accurately identifying root causes, preventing future failures, and driving continuous product improvement.

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

AspectSr Failure Analysis EngineerFailure Analysis Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Engineering, certifications like ASQ FAI or relatedBachelor's or Master's in Engineering, similar certifications
Work EnvironmentManufacturing, electronics, aerospace, or automotive industriesSame industries, often in R&D or quality departments
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in large corporations, tech firms, manufacturing plantsCommon in similar settings, often as entry to mid-level roles

The main difference between a Sr Failure Analysis Engineer and a Failure Analysis Engineer lies in experience and responsibility. The senior role typically involves more complex analysis, mentorship, and project leadership, while the standard role focuses on executing failure investigations under supervision. Both roles require similar credentials and work in comparable environments, but the senior position indicates a higher level of expertise and accountability.

What are popular job titles related to Sr Failure Analysis Engineer jobs in California?

For Sr Failure Analysis Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Sr Failure Analysis Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Sr Failure Analysis Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Sr Failure Analysis Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Sr Failure Analysis Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Sr Failure Analysis Engineer job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution.

Senior Failure Analysis Engineer

II-VI Incorporated

Fremont, CA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

  • Implement surface characterization techniques including;ย 

    • Optical imaging,ย 

    • SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy),ย 

    • AFM (Atomic Force Microscopy),ย 

    • EDS (Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy).

    • FIB (Sample preparation through Focused Ion Beam)

    • STEM (Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy)

  • Prepare samples for cross sectioning and BEL (Backside Electro Luminescence)ย 

  • Perform Visual Mechanical Inspection (VMI) of the semiconductor componentsย 

  • Conduct electrical testing of the semiconductor-based devices including LIV measurement, Responsivity test, Capacitance-Voltage test

  • Perform data analysis for problem solving and Failure Analysis using variety of tools for capturing data and statistical analysis including Excel, JMP

  • Propose proper Failure Analysis techniques for finding a certain failure modeย 
  • Track and document the list of failure analysis requests, results and conclusions
  • Plot diagrams, generate charts, prepare reports, present to internal teams and customers
  • Write procedures on Failure Analysis process and techniques, train other

Education & Experience

  • Associate degree. Bachelor or Master's degree preferred
  • 2+ years of experience inย failure analysis role in semiconductor wafer fabs
  • Familiarity with semiconductor manufacturing techniques and understanding of wafer fabrication

  • Experience working in clean room and ESD protected area

  • Ability to work independently and perform multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment

Skills

  • Good communication skills and ability to work independently or as a teamย 

  • Proficient in English language (oral and written)

  • ย 

Working Conditions

  • The job may require longer hours outside regular working hours to finish urgent request.ย 
  • The job may require visiting suppliers.

Physical Requirements

  • The job requires to work in a lab with different equipment that require stand-up posture.ย 

Safety Requirements

All employees are required to follow the site EHS procedures and Coherent Corp. Corporate EHS standards.

Quality and Environmental Responsibilities

Depending on location, this position may be responsible for the execution and maintenance of the ISO 9000, 9001, 14001 and/or other applicable standards that may apply to the relevant roles and responsibilities within the Quality Management System and Environmental Management System.

Cultureย Commitment

Ensure adherence to company's values (ICARE) in all aspects of your position at Coherent Corp.:

Integrity - Create an Environment of Trust

Collaboration - Innovate Through the Sharing of Ideas

Accountability - Own the Process and the Outcome

Respect - Recognize the Value in Everyone

Enthusiasm - Find a Sense of Purpose in Work


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Coherent Corp. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.


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If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at talentacquisition@coherent.com.


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Coherent is a global leader in lasers, engineered materials and networking components. We are a vertically integrated manufacturing company that develops innovative products for diversified applications in the industrial, optical communications, military, life sciences, semiconductor equipment, and consumer markets. Coherent provides a comprehensive career development platform within an environment that challenges employees to perform at their best, while rewarding excellence and hard-work through a competitive compensation program. It's an exciting opportunity to work for a company that offers stability, longevity and growth. Come Join Us!
Note to recruiters and employment agencies: We will not pay for unsolicited resumes from recruiters and employment agencies unless we have a signed agreement and have required assistance, in writing, for a specific opening.