Failure Analysis Engineer

About the role

The Failure Analysis Engineer (FAE) is responsible for investigating, analyzing, and identifying root causes of failures in electronic assemblies, systems, and components used in high-performance computing, server, and AI-related hardware products. This role supports continuous improvement and product reliability initiatives through data-driven analysis, cross-functional collaboration, and corrective action implementation.

Responsibilities

• Failure Analysis and Root Cause Investigation (50%): Perform electrical, mechanical, and thermal failure analysis on defective units from production, field returns (RMA), and reliability testing.
• Data Collection and Reporting (20%): Maintain detailed FA reports, including findings, corrective actions, and risk assessments.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration (15%): Partner with manufacturing, R&D, and quality engineering teams to drive corrective and preventive actions (CAPA).
• Process and Product Improvement (10%): Participate in Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and Design for Reliability (DfR) reviews.
• Compliance and Safety (5%): Ensure all FA activities comply with ESD, ISO, and environmental standards (e.g., RoHS, REACH).

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, or related field required.
• Master’s degree or equivalent experience in Reliability Engineering, Failure Analysis, or Quality Engineering preferred.
• 3–5 years of experience in failure analysis or reliability engineering within electronics, semiconductor, or high-tech manufacturing industries.
• Experience with AI server systems, GPU boards, or data center hardware is a plus.

Skills

• Proficiency with diagnostic equipment (oscilloscope, DMM, logic analyzer, X-ray, SEM, FIB, etc.)
• Knowledge of SMT manufacturing, solder joint analysis, and IPC standards.
• Familiarity with reliability testing (HALT, HASS, thermal cycling, vibration testing).
• Experience with data analysis tools (Python, JMP, Minitab, Excel).
• Ability to interpret schematics, layout drawings, and bill of materials (BOM).

Core Competencies

• Analytical Thinking: Strong ability to dissect complex problems and identify root causes.
• Technical Expertise: Deep understanding of electrical/electronic systems, PCB design, and semiconductor behavior.
• Collaboration: Works effectively with multidisciplinary teams to solve technical challenges.
• Communication: Ability to write clear, data-supported reports and present findings to technical and non-technical audiences.
• Continuous Improvement: Passion for enhancing product reliability and manufacturing efficiency

Performance Indicators

• Failure Analysis Turnaround Time (TAT)
• Root Cause Accuracy and Verification Rate
• Corrective Action Implementation Effectiveness
• Reduction in Recurrence Rate of Failures
• Customer Satisfaction (internal/external) with FA deliverables

Working Conditions

On-site role at our client’s Alliance, TX manufacturing facility. Exposure to electronics lab environments (ESD-safe areas, microscopes, soldering stations). Occasional travel to suppliers, customer sites, or corporate headquarters (domestic/international). Normal working hours with flexibility to support urgent FA cases and project deadlines.