Empa, Materials Science and Technology
Dübendorf
8 hours ago
Specialist in Physical Failure Analysis and Reliability of Electronic Components and Systems
- Publication date:03 December 2025
- Workload:100%
- Contract type:Unlimited employment
- Place of work:Dübendorf
Job summary
Empa, a leading research institution, focuses on materials science. Join us for impactful work in a collaborative environment.
Tasks
- Conduct physical failure analyses of electronic components with industry partners.
- Support internal research projects with analytical expertise.
- Prepare samples and perform analyses using microscopy techniques.
Skills
- Technical education in materials science or a related field required.
- Experience in chemical and mechanical sample preparation is preferred.
- Strong communication skills in German and English are essential.
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About the job
Materials science and technology are our passion. With our cutting-edge research, the approximately 1,100 employees of Empa make decisive contributions for the benefit of society for a livable future. Empa is a research institution within the ETH domain.
Specialist in Physical Failure Analysis and Reliability of Electronic Components and Systems
Our Transport at Nanoscale Interfaces Department is looking for a dedicated expert in reliability engineering and physical failure analysis in the fields of reliability engineering of electronic components and systems as well as electronics development and automation with internal and external R&D partners.
Your tasks
- Conducting physical failure analyses on electronic components and subsystems in collaboration with industry partners
- Analytical support of internal research projects
- Sample preparation (mechanical and wet chemical)
- Analysis using light microscopy as well as SEM/FIB and cathodoluminescence
- Failure localization in semiconductor devices (EMMI/OBIRCH, IR thermography, EBIC/EBAC)
- Electrical measurements on semiconductor devices and electronic assemblies
- Participation in R&D projects with the electronics and semiconductor industry
- Support in maintenance of laboratory equipment and organization of laboratory operations
Your profile
- Completed technical training with a focus on materials technology/testing (e.g., physics/chemistry laboratory technician, materials technician, materials laboratory technician) or Bachelor (FH) in materials technology, process engineering or micro- and nanotechnology
- Experience in wet chemistry and mechanical polishing preparation desired
- Knowledge of semiconductor technology (CMOS) or electronics manufacturing (PCB, assemblies) is an advantage
- Several years of professional experience in a laboratory environment
- Teamwork skills and independent working style
- Very good oral and written knowledge of German and English; additional national languages are a plus
Our offer
We offer you a varied activity in the field of applied research with great social and economic relevance. You have the opportunity to contribute your know-how purposefully and to further develop it. Close cooperation with international partners, customers, and suppliers opens up valuable contacts and diverse perspectives. In addition, you benefit from attractive employment conditions according to the ETH domain.
For further information about the position, Mr. Marcel Held, marcel.held@empa.ch and Dr. Ivan Shorubalko, ivan.shorubalko@empa.ch are happy to assist you.
We live a culture of inclusion and respect. Everyone who is interested in innovative, sustainable, and meaningful activities is welcome here - that is what counts.
We look forward to receiving your complete online application including cover letter, CV, certificates, diplomas, and contact details of two references. Please submit these exclusively via our application portal. Applications by e-mail or post will not be considered.
