Failure Analysis Supervisor

Job Description:

Basic Function

Provide technical leadership and supervisory direction to hourly and salaried staff in the Failure Analysis department. Oversee and participate in root cause investigations by applying mechanical, electrical, software, and system-level troubleshooting skills, using established analysis procedures and specialized equipment. Monitor and analyze data trends, generate periodic reports, and collaborate with engineering, customers, and cross-functional teams to drive resolution and support continuous improvement. This role requires a broad technical foundation, adaptability, and the ability to guide others, quickly learn new tools and systems, and help prepare the team for supporting both current and future product platforms.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Analyze returned products across all technologies including mass flow controllers, variable area meters, vacuum, and pressure devices to determine failure modes and warranty status.

• Perform hands-on disassembly, reassembly, or light fabrication work as needed to support testing and evaluation

• Lead or support root cause investigations and ensure that findings are accurate, repeatable, and based on sound testing procedures.

• Guide team members in troubleshooting, test setup, and evaluation methods to ensure consistency and technical accuracy.

• Ensure test reports are clear, complete, and written in alignment with company standards and procedures.

• Provide timely feedback and recommendations to internal stakeholders including Quality, Technical Services, Customer Service, and Sales.

• Support the introduction of new products by helping to establish appropriate evaluation methods and training the team as needed.

• Identify trends in returned products and escalate issues where necessary to drive continuous improvement.

• Maintain and support lab equipment used in evaluation and testing.

• Coordinate with other departments to resolve field issues and improve customer experience.

• Supervise and support hourly staff in the Failure Analysis department by:

• Providing daily direction and technical guidance

• Prioritizing work based on urgency and workload

• Conducting performance reviews and coaching

• Promote a collaborative, team-oriented work environment.

• Ensure compliance with safety protocols and quality standards.

• Maintain regular and reliable attendance.

• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong analytical and investigative skills, with the ability to identify root causes and document findings clearly and accurately

• Proficient in interpreting technical documentation, including drawings, specifications, procedures, and electronic schematics

• Skilled in troubleshooting at the component, system, and software levels across mechanical, electrical, and electro-mechanical devices

• Effective verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with peers, leadership, engineering, quality, and customer-facing teams

• Experienced with specialized diagnostic tools, lab instrumentation, and data collection systems

• Comfortable using business platforms such as Salesforce to manage support cases, track returns, and communicate technical findings

• Familiarity with basic scripting or automation tools (such as Excel macros, Python, or test utilities) is a plus

• Able to manage shifting priorities in a dynamic environment and balance team workload to meet business objectives

• Proficient with Microsoft Excel, Word, and product lifecycle tools such as TeamCenter

• Organized and detail-oriented, with a focus on maintaining clean workspaces and following all safety and quality standards

• Team-oriented, with the ability to lead, support, and train others across technical disciplines

Education and Experience

• Minimum education required is a bachelor's degree in an engineering field from an accredited college.

• PC knowledge with the Microsoft Windows operating system environment, and/or training or equivalent experience required.

• Experience with measurement instrumentation preferred.