Failure Analysis Chemist

Bold Thinking. World Changing. At SkyWater, our ingenuity helps improve lives around the world by manufacturing U.S. made semiconductors that are essential ingredients of modern life. Automotive safety enhancements, life-saving medical devices, consumer electronics and American security require semiconductors. Working in our Minnesota headquarters, Florida, or Texas location - employees join together to improve the world.

Explore what's possible. Joining our U.S. - based team means contributing to and learning about the commercialization of some of the most exciting technologies the world has ever seen. We are turning "science fiction" into everyday reality through technologies such as superconducting, 3D integrated circuits or computer chips, carbon nanotubes, photonic logic devices, micro electro-mechanical systems and other emerging device topologies. We manufacture products for aerospace and defense, medical, automotive, consumer and industrial markets, to name a few. Our customers include emerging leaders who rely on our intellectual property security and quality manufacturing services.

Step into the future. SkyWater's values of Integrity, Excellence, Collaboration, Empowerment and Growth Mindset guide us to cultivate an empowered, learning environment. We also invest in developing highly skilled, dedicated employees - and employees who are entering the workforce for the first time, from the military, and a variety of educational backgrounds.

Are you bold thinking? Find your place on our team and help us change the world!

Primary Objective:

The Failure Analysis Chemist provides analytical chemistry support by performing routine chemical and materials analyses and supporting QA/QC evaluations. This role delivers timely, accurate analytical results to engineering, facilities, and operations teams, and collaborates with cross‑functional groups to help identify and resolve Fab process issues.

Major Areas of Accountability:

• Perform high volume routine chemical and materials analyses using ICP‑MS, ICP‑OES, IC, automated VPD, and other laboratory instrumentation.
• Participate in training and cross‑training across analytical techniques and toolsets to support team flexibility and workload demands.
• Support QA/QC testing of materials from on‑site operations such as blending, dilution, or reclaim processes.
• Manage assigned samples within the chemistry queue and complete high‑priority requests within required turnaround times.
• Assist with basic troubleshooting of analytical tools, document issues, initiate service requests, and contribute feedback to improve troubleshooting guides.
• Prepare and deliver clear reports and communications using Microsoft Office tools for Fab Modules, Facilities, and internal stakeholders.
• Operate within established lab safety, quality, and environmental procedures.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify and resolve Fab process issues.
• Be able to work in a team environment and coordinate tool utilization to maximize tool output.

Required Qualifications:

• Education: Associate's degree in chemistry, material science or related field.

• Experience: 5 or more years' experience in a chemistry laboratory through academic work, internships, or professional roles; exposure to analytical instrumentation in a manufacturing environment is preferred.

• Skills:

• Fundamental understanding of analytical chemistry techniques and lab best practices.

• Knowledge of instruments such as ICPMS, ICPOES, IC, VPD, titrators, TOC, or similar tools.

• Strong organizational and multi‑tasking skills with attention to accuracy and timely execution.

• Excellent communication and problem‑solving skills.

• Ability to follow detailed technical procedures and work safely with acids, bases, solvents, and other laboratory chemicals.

• Ability to work in a team environment and support shared laboratory resources.

• This position is a second shift position: Wed - Sat 3pm to 1:30am - training will require M-F 8-5 for 3months.

Physical Requirements:

• This position may require sitting and standing for extended periods.

SkyWater offers an exciting environment where the brightest semiconductor minds come together to achieve exceptional results. We offer competitive salary and an opportunity to participate in incentive plans as well as other employee financial benefits, including 401k match, and life insurance.

Additionally, SkyWater offers a comprehensive benefits package which promotes a healthy life. This includes benefit eligibility day one, medical, dental, mental health benefits, vision, legal planning, short- and long-term disability, paid time off, paid holidays, an on-site fitness facility, and an on-site self-serve market.

SkyWater complies with federal and state disability laws and makes reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities unless doing so would cause an undue hardship. Alternative methods of applying for employment are available to individuals unable to submit an application through this site because of a disability. To request reasonable accommodations, to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact Human Resources at 952-851-5200 or Recruiting@SkyWatertechnology.com.

EOE, including disability/vets

We will never ask applicants to pay fees, purchase equipment or gift cards, or provide financial information before a formal offer of employment has been accepted. If you receive a suspicious communication claiming to represent our company, please verify its authenticity by contacting our recruitment team at recruiting@skywatertechnology.com before responding.