Failure Analysis Engineer

Position at Samtec, Inc

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 things apart, and figuring out exactly why they broke, you belong here. We are seeking a collaborative, hands‑on engineer who thrives in a working laboratory environment. This position is ideal for an inquisitive, detail-oriented professional who wants to be directly involved with advanced instrumentation and drive real‑world engineering solutions.

• Understand the customers’ failure description and perform failure analysis on optical-electronic devices.
• Generate analysis reports that clearly present root cause findings to our partners in development, production and quality.
• Take ownership of laboratory equipment. Investigate, recommend and purchase new measurement and inspection systems based upon ROI and throughput requirements.
• Understanding of electrical measurement methods such as DC measurements, oscilloscopes and frequency generators.
• Perform environmental stress testing like temperature cycling, high temperature storage and damp heat exposure.
• Develop and improve existing failure analysis methods as well as developing new internal techniques and relationships with external labs.
• Become proficient in skill sets that allow for beginning to end root cause failure analysis investigation that may span across various teams and analysis techniques.
• Review failure analysis results and offer solutions and improvements based on statistical background and knowledge base.
• This position involves hands‑on cleanroom and laboratory work to make real‑time observations.
• Must be able to work independently as well as to interact with colleagues, customers, and vendors to achieve objectives.
• Knowledge of software development and programming skills is a plus.

“The responsibilities as defined are intended to serve as a general guideline for this position. Associates may be asked to perform additional tasks depending on strengths and capabilities”

• 1 - 3 years’ experience in physical failure analysis or related field.
• Demonstrated hands‑on experience in physical failure analysis and localization techniques such as Microscopy, Sample preparation (decapsulation), X‑Ray, SEM/EDX, Electrical Test, Fault Localization as well as an understanding of the equipment and materials that are used in the industry.

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical/Electronics/Microelectronics Engineering, Material Science, Chemistry or equivalent.

• Ability to sit for extended periods while performing detailed analysis and working with laboratory instrumentation
• Ability to stand intermittently throughout the day while conducting lab procedures or equipment setup
• Ability to lift and/or move materials and equipment up to approximately 30 pounds
• Manual dexterity to handle small components and operate laboratory tools and precision instruments
• Visual acuity to perform detailed inspections, including microscope‑based analysis
• Ability to work in a laboratory and cleanroom environment, including wearing required personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Ability to bend, reach, and maneuver as needed to access equipment and perform testing procedures

This is a day shift position. The salary range for this position is $80,000 - $110,000 per year plus inclusive of applicable bonuses and commensurate with experience. Samtec's generous benefits package includes medical (HSA/PPO) dental, vision, group life, AD&D, short- and long-term disability, EAP, 401K match, profit sharing, plus other voluntary options, as well as paid time off.

Founded in 1976, Samtec is a privately held, $950 million global manufacturer of a broad line of electronic interconnect solutions, including High-Speed Board-to-Board, High-Speed Cables, Mid-Board and Panel Optics, Precision RF, Flexible Stacking, and Micro/Rugged components and cables. Samtec Technology Centers are dedicated to developing and advancing technologies, strategies and products…