Characterization Failure Analysis Engineer

Job Description

Job Title: Principal Characterization-Failure Analysis Engineer. Location: Milpitas, California, USA

Job Type: Full-Time, Senior Level (10+ years experience)

Responsibilities:

• Perform thermomechanical characterization of sub-assemblies and silicon dies used in quantum systems
• Conduct failure analysis and debugging of sub-assemblies using structured root cause methodologies
• Apply tools such as fishbone diagrams, hypothesis tables, and 8D problem-solving methods
• Perform Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) to identify and mitigate risks
• Analyze data using Python, MATLAB, and JMP for engineering insights;
• Work with semiconductor assembly processes including die attach, wire bonding, and automated optical inspection (AOI)
• Investigate photonics-based sub-assembly issues including optical coupling, flip chip integration, and underfill materials
• Characterize system behavior under mechanical vibration, thermal stress, and mechanical loading
• Manage tight deadlines and operate effectively in fast-paced engineering environments
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and provide technical leadership in ambiguous failure scenarios
• Communicate findings clearly through written reports and technical presentations

Qualifications:

• Master’s degree or higher in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Optical Engineering, or Applied Physics
• 10+ years of experience in failure analysis and debugging of complex opto-mechanical or semiconductor systems
• Strong expertise in mechanical, thermal, and packaging engineering disciplines
• Experience with semiconductor assembly processes and inspection techniques;
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work independently and lead technical investigations

Preferred:

• Experience with photonics sub-assembly systems
• Background in optical coupling, cryogenic systems, or semiconductor packaging
• Familiarity with advanced manufacturing inspection and testing systems
• Ability to work in ambiguous and research-driven environments
• Strong leadership capability in technical problem-solving

Benefits and Compensation:

• Base salary range: $165,000 – $200,000 (US), up to $208,000 – $245,000 in Bay Area
• Equity participation for full-time employees
• Comprehensive benefits package (healthcare, insurance, retirement plans depending on company policy)
• Opportunity to work on large-scale, utility-grade quantum computing systems;
• Exposure to cutting-edge silicon photonics quantum architecture
• Collaboration with leading global industry partners and research teams

Other Information:

• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States (no visa sponsorship provided)
• Role is part of PsiQuantum’s mission to build million-qubit fault-tolerant quantum systems
• Work involves high-performance photonic quantum computing architecture;
• Company operates in collaboration with major semiconductor manufacturing partners
• Equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion
• Candidates are advised to beware of recruitment scams using unofficial email domains