Microelectronics Failure Analysis Scientist

The Aerospace Corporation•El Segundo, CA

12d•Onsite

About The Position

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation’s space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space— delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you’ll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space. Job Summary Physical Sciences Laboratories (PSL) supports the effective and timely development and operation of national security systems through scientific research and the application of advanced technologies. PSL has more than 150 specialized laboratories used to test, analyze, and troubleshoot virtually every aspect of rocket and satellite system design, development, construction, deployment, and operation. The expertise of the laboratories’ technical staff allows PSL to stay abreast of new technological developments and program support issues associated with rapidly evolving space systems. The Microelectronics Technology Department (MTD) is part of PSL with specialized laboratories for testing, accelerating, and analyzing, failures in electronics used for space system. MTD is comprised of two sections: one that performs radiation effects testing and discrete microelectronics testing, while the other section performs failure analysis on microelectronics using tools that can identify anomalies from the macroscopic down to the atomic scale.  MTD is looking for a Microelectronics Failure Analysis Scientist (Research Scientist – Microelectronics / Semiconductor Engineering) to support investigations of physics of failure in silicon CMOS, III-V devices, and other advanced materials and technologies for space applications. Highlights of our lab's capabilities can be seen here: Virtual Tour The selected candidate will be required to work full-time, on-site at our facility in El Segundo CA.

Requirements

PhD in electrical engineering, computer engineering, materials science, or physics is required
(6) or more years of progressively responsible professional scientific research experience is required
Experience with semiconductor foundry service, microelectronics processing, semiconductor physics, and microelectronics packaging techniques
Knowledge of physical analysis and fault isolation techniques such as electron microscopy, thermal imaging, focused ion beam, scanning/Transmission electron microscopy (S/TEM), precession electron diffraction, or electron beam induced current (EBIC) imaging
Experience with FIB-TOFSIMS on battery materials, cathodoluminescence on compound semiconductor, nanoprobing integrated circuits, cryogenics electron microscopy, or circuit editing.
Experience with Python / LabVIEW / MATLAB or similar software for data collection/analysis
Willing to travel domestically up to 10% of the year to customer site/conferences
This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. government.
U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance

Nice To Haves

Strong publication record and demonstrated ability to develop and execute innovative research projects especially those related to microelectronics is strongly preferred
Experience with semiconductor integrated circuits layout and design, PDK, DRC, VLSI, DFM, VLSI, architecture, BEOL technologies, 3D/advanced chip packaging techniques is highly desired
Experience with VHDL/Verilog/FPGA/Microprocessor programming
Understanding of circuit edit techniques or microelectronic hardware security

Responsibilities

Provide technical support to national security space programs, internal, and academic collaborators
Conduct research on microelectronic device technologies for application in space systems, including developing new physical analysis techniques and developing knowledge of hardware security verification
Perform failure analysis and anomaly resolution investigations of integrated circuits and other microelectronic devices using physical analysis techniques such as electron microscopy, focused ion beam, and electron beam induced current imaging
Present results of assessments/research internally, to customers, at scientific meetings, and publish research in refereed scientific journals
Support the adoption and assessment of new technologies and applications, space systems, including technology qualification and assurance
Innovation, velocity, and accountability will primarily be used to assess job performance
Develop capabilities in circuit & device modeling and materials physics simulation

Benefits

We offer a competitive compensation package where you’ll be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you bring to our business.
Comprehensive health care and wellness plans
Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation
Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options
401(k) Plan — Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire
Flexible spending accounts
Variable pay program for exceptional contributions
Relocation assistance
Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career
Education assistance programs
An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect