Senior Packaging Failure Analysis Lead

thrively; Santa Clara (CA); On-site; USD 180,000 - 270,000; Full time

Job summary

Thrively, a semiconductor technology partner in Santa Clara, is seeking a Senior Packaging Failure Analysis Engineer to lead physical failure investigations across advanced packages and MEMS. This role combines materials science, packaging, and analytical characterization to determine root causes.

You will personally prepare samples, perform cross-sectional analysis, operate analytical equipment, and translate findings into design and process improvements that enhance product reliability.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of hands-on failure analysis experience.
• Experience with SEM/EDS and microscopic inspection.
• Strong cross-sectioning and sample preparation skills.
• Ability to translate findings into corrective actions and improvements.
• Experience with advanced semiconductor packaging technologies preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead hands-on failure analysis investigations across semiconductor packages, MEMS devices, and optical/electronic assemblies.
• Perform destructive and non-destructive analyses to identify failure mechanisms.
• Develop and execute failure analysis strategies using appropriate analytical techniques.
• Prepare samples and expose microscopic material interfaces via cross-sectioning and polishing.
• Translate analytical findings into root-cause conclusions and design/process improvements.

Skills

Failure analysis

Cross-sectioning

SEM/EDS

Materials characterization

Root-cause analysis

Semiconductor packaging

Interfacial science

Documentation

Education

Materials science degree

Engineering PhD

Tools

SEM/EDS

FIB

X-ray/CT

Job description

Thrively, a semiconductor technology partner in Santa Clara, is seeking a Senior Packaging Failure Analysis Engineer to lead physical failure investigations across advanced packages and MEMS. This role combines materials science, packaging, and analytical characterization to determine root causes.

You will personally prepare samples, perform cross-sectional analysis, operate analytical equipment, and translate findings into design and process improvements that enhance product reliability.