Failure Analysis
Failure Analysis is the process of investigating why materials, products, or components have broken down or stopped working properly. It's like being a detective for industrial problems - these specialists examine broken parts to figure out what went wrong and how to prevent it from happening again. This work is crucial in manufacturing, construction, and engineering fields where understanding why something failed helps improve future designs and prevent accidents. You might also see this called "Root Cause Analysis" or "Materials Investigation" in job descriptions.
Examples in Resumes
Conducted over 50 Failure Analysis investigations on automotive components, resulting in 30% reduction in product defects
Led Root Cause Analysis and Failure Analysis teams for aerospace materials testing
Performed detailed Materials Failure Analysis studies on construction materials, preventing $2M in potential warranty claims
Typical job title: "Failure Analysis Engineers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Failure Analysis Engineers
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: Can you describe a complex failure analysis case you managed and how you approached it?
Expected Answer: Look for answers that show leadership in handling complex investigations, ability to manage teams, communicate with stakeholders, and implement preventive measures across an organization.
Q: How do you prioritize multiple failure analysis cases?
Expected Answer: Strong answers should include assessment of safety risks, production impact, cost implications, and ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining quality of investigation.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What tools and techniques do you use in failure analysis?
Expected Answer: Should mention common testing equipment, microscopes, and analysis methods, but more importantly, explain when and why they would use each tool.
Q: How do you document your failure analysis findings?
Expected Answer: Should describe clear report writing, photo documentation, data organization, and ability to explain technical findings to non-technical audiences.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the basic steps in conducting a failure analysis?
Expected Answer: Should describe basic investigation process: gathering information, visual inspection, testing, analysis, and reporting findings.
Q: How would you collect samples for analysis?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of proper sample collection, handling, and documentation procedures to maintain evidence integrity.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic material testing methods
- Sample preparation and handling
- Report writing
- Understanding of basic investigation procedures
Mid (2-5 years)
- Independent investigation management
- Advanced testing techniques
- Root cause analysis methods
- Communicating with customers and stakeholders
Senior (5+ years)
- Leading complex investigations
- Training and mentoring junior staff
- Implementing preventive measures
- Program development and management
Red Flags to Watch For
- No hands-on testing or analysis experience
- Poor documentation skills
- Lack of attention to detail
- Unable to explain technical concepts in simple terms
- No experience with standard testing equipment
Related Terms
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