Sr. Technician - Microelectronics Failure Analysis

Job Title

Sr. Technician - Microelectronics Failure Analysis

Role Summary

Senior SEM technician supporting Microelectronics Failure Analysis at GlobalFoundries Fab 9 in Essex Junction, VT. The role performs hands‑on SEM-based failure analysis, sample preparation, and data interpretation to support yield, reliability, and process investigations.

Works independently as a technical expert, contributes to method development, owns SEM tools and procedures, and mentors junior technicians.

Experience Level

Senior — minimum 4 years of relevant technical experience (as stated in the posting).

Responsibilities

Primary responsibilities include execution of SEM-based failure analysis, sample preparation, documentation, and training.

• Execute complex SEM failure analyses from wafer level through interpretation to support yield, reliability, and manufacturing investigations.
• Perform advanced sample preparation: mechanical cleaving, mechanical polishing (cross-section and plan-view), and FIB site-specific milling.
• Select and optimize SEM imaging conditions (voltage, current, detectors, contrast mechanisms) to resolve subtle failure signatures.
• Interpret SEM results in the context of device structures, materials, and process flows; collaborate with failure analysis engineers on strategies.
• Develop, standardize, and document SEM operating procedures, troubleshooting guides, and training materials.
• Maintain lab reporting systems, ensure thorough documentation of results, imaging data, and tool status.
• Train and mentor junior technicians and promote safety, compliance, and continuous improvement in the lab.
• Support Environmental, Health, Safety & Security requirements and perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

Must-have technical skills, experience, and workplace abilities.

• Minimum 4 years of relevant technical experience in SEM or semiconductor failure analysis environments.
• Familiarity with advanced SEM techniques (low-kV imaging, cross-section analysis, material contrast techniques).
• Ability to clearly communicate technical findings to engineers and lab leadership; fluent in English (written and verbal).
• Ability to periodically lift up to 30 pounds to support preventive maintenance and tool sustainment activities.
• Demonstrated high level of independence, attention to data quality, and adherence to safety and compliance policies.

Nice-to-have:

• Hands-on SEM experience in semiconductor failure analysis or process-support roles; experience as SEM tool owner or lead technician.
• Experience supporting high-volume manufacturing fabs and fast-turn root-cause investigations.
• Working knowledge of TEM or optical failure analysis techniques.

Education Requirements

Associate's degree (2-year technical degree) in Engineering, Physics, Materials Science, Electronics, Semiconductor Manufacturing, Math, or a related discipline — OR equivalent military technical training (as stated in the posting).

About the Company

Company: GlobalFoundries

Headquarters: Saratoga Springs, New York, USA

GlobalFoundries is a leading contract manufacturer for the global semiconductor industry, with facilities in multiple countries, including the USA. The company develops a broad portfolio of semiconductor technologies and employs around 13,000 people worldwide. GlobalFoundries focuses on enhancing competitiveness in specialized application solutions and fostering innovation in mobile communications, consumer electronics, and automotive applications.