Sr. Technician - Failure Analysis

GlobalFoundries; Essex Junction (VT); On-site; USD 48,000 - 83,000; Full time

Job summary

GlobalFoundries' Fab 9 in Essex Junction, VT is seeking a Sr. Technician for Microelectronics Failure Analysis. You will perform physical failure analysis using SIM, TEM, and FIB techniques to support yield investigations in a high-volume semiconductor environment.

This on-site role offers hands-on training, collaboration with engineers, and a 12-hour D1 shift (7am–7pm) on a 2-2-3 cadence with occasional overtime.

Qualifications

• Associate degree or equivalent technical training in a related field.
• 2–3 years in a technical lab, manufacturing, microscopy, or semiconductor setting.
• Ability to learn and operate complex analytical equipment and follow procedures.

Responsibilities

• Prepare semiconductor samples for TEM using FIB and other prep methods.
• Operate and maintain FIB equipment for lamella prep and cross-sectioning.
• Ensure sample quality, documentation, and traceability in LIMS.
• Collaborate with engineers on yield, reliability, and investigations.
• Support preventive maintenance and safety programs.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Problem solving

Detail-oriented

Learning new techniques

English fluency

Documentation skills

Education

Associates degree or equivalent military training

Tools

FIB systems

TEM instrument

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

GlobalFoundries' Fab 9 is seeking a Sr. Technician for Microelectronics Failure Analysis to join our advanced analytical laboratory in Essex Junction, VT. This hands‑on role supports high-volume semiconductor manufacturing, yield learning, and root‑cause analysis through physical failure analysis techniques, including Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (SIM). This position is ideal for candidates with a strong technical foundation and interest in thin film analysis. While prior thin film analysis experience is preferred, motivated candidates with related technical backgrounds will receive training and development to build expertise in advanced analytical methods. Technicians in this role will work closely with experienced engineers and senior lab staff to develop analytical skills and contribute to impactful investigations supporting Fab 9 operations. This role is fully on site at our Essex, VT facility. This is a 12‑hour day shift schedule (D1 shift) which is 7am - 7pm, working on a 2-2-3 cadence, with some built-in overtime within the shift schedule.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare semiconductor samples for Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) using Focused Ion Beam (FIB) tools and other precision sample preparation techniques which may include wet/dry chemical etching
• Execute sample preparation plans developed in collaboration with TEM engineers
• Operate and maintain FIB equipment used for TEM lamella preparation and site‑specific cross‑sectioning
• Ensure sample quality, dimensional accuracy, and proper documentation throughout the preparation process
• Track and document work using lab information management systems (LIMS) and established reporting methods
• Assist in the development and improvement of sample preparation methods, workflows, and best practices
• Collaborate closely with engineers and lab staff to support yield, reliability, and technology investigations
• Support preventive maintenance and basic troubleshooting activities on lab equipment
• Maintain cleanroom and lab protocols while adhering to all safety requirements
• Participate in training programs to develop advanced expertise in FIB‑based sample preparation and failure analysis techniques
• Contribute to a strong culture of safety, quality, teamwork, and continuous improvement

Other Responsibilities

• Perform all activities in a safe and responsible manner and support all Environmental, Health, Safety & Security requirements and programs.
• Completes all management responsibilities and tasks

Required Qualifications

• Education: Associate's degree (2-year technical degree) in Engineering, Physics, Materials Science, Electronics, Semiconductor Manufacturing, Chemistry, Math, or a related technical discipline OR equivalent military technical training
• Experience: minimum 2-3 years' relevant technical lab, manufacturing, machining, microscopy, or semiconductor industry experience
• Strong mechanical aptitude and attention to detail
• Demonstrated problem‑solving and organizational skills
• Ability to learn and operate complex analytical equipment
• Ability to follow detailed procedures and work with precision on delicate samples
• Effective written and verbal communication skills
• Fluency in English - both written and verbal
• Experience supporting failure analysis, materials characterization, or process development activities
• Experience with sample preparation techniques such as polishing, sectioning, thinning, mounting, or metallographic preparation

Physical Requirements

• Ability to periodically lift up to 30 pounds to support tool maintenance and laboratory activities
• Ability to work for extended periods while operating lab equipment and preparing precision samples
• Ability to work in lab environments while wearing required personal protective equipment (PPE)

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Focused Ion Beam (FIB) systems or related precision material removal tools
• Experience in a semiconductor fab, cleanroom, analytical laboratory, or manufacturing environment
• Familiarity with semiconductor device structures and processing concepts
• Experience working with microscopes, imaging systems, or other analytical instrumentation
• Experience documenting technical work in a lab or manufacturing environment
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple requests while maintaining high quality standards

Expected Salary Range

$48,200.00 - $83,200.00

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

The role you are applying for may require you to obtain a US Department of Defense Security Clearance at some time during your employment. Acceptance of this role commits to applying for such if requested. Further, the applicant consents to being asked questions about their citizenship and background to assess the likelihood of obtaining a Security Clearance. The applicant also acknowledges that GlobalFoundries can only nominate and submit an application for a Security Clearance. The granting of a Security Clearance is at the sole discretion of the U.S. Government and the Department of Defense.

If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please contact us by email at [e-mail] 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