Hardware Failure Analysis Engineer - Memphis

Xai

Memphis +1 more

Who this role is best for

Strong fit for hardware reliability engineers with hands-on experience in data center environments who thrive in collaborative, flat-structure teams.

Best fit for

Candidates with 2+ years in hardware reliability engineering for data centers or high-performance computing
— “2+ years of experience in hardware reliability engineering, preferably in high-performance computing or data center environments.”
Individuals skilled in firmware analysis and capable of diagnosing complex hardware failures
— “Demonstrated ability to diagnose and prove complex hardware failures, including grey or intermittent issues, using tools, logic analyzers, or diagnostic software.”
Professionals comfortable with scripting and systems languages for automation and analysis
— “Proficiency in scripting (Python, Bash) for automation and analysis, plus general experience in at least one systems language (C, C++, Java, Rust, or similar).”

Things to consider

On-call responsibilities are expected for hardware-related incidents in Memphis
— “Participate in on-call rotations and incident response for hardware-related issues in the Memphis data center”
Candidates must be prepared to work in a small, flat-structure team with high expectations for initiative and delivery
— “Leadership is given to those who show initiative and consistently deliver excellence.”

How to stand out

Highlight experience with RMA processes and vendor negotiations in your resume and interviews
— “Strong experience with RMA processes, including filing claims, vendor negotiations, and pushing for resolutions outside standard protocols.”
Emphasize your ability to document failure modes and reliability models systematically
— “Document failure modes, RCAs, AFR / reliability models, RMA outcomes, and hardware evaluations into a team knowledge base.”
Showcase your scripting and diagnostic tool experience with specific examples from past projects
— “Proficiency in scripting (Python, Bash) for automation and analysis, plus general experience in at least one systems language.”
Demonstrate your ability to work on cross-functional teams and solve real-time hardware issues
— “Collaborate with Data Center Operations Technicians to troubleshoot, repair, and optimize hardware systems in real-time.”

Pace · Fast PacedCollaboration · HighAutonomy · MediumDecision Impact · Company

Derived from job-description analysis by Serendipath's career intelligence engine.

What success looks like

identification and resolution of hardware issues
effective vendor management
development of monitoring tools

Typical background

hardware reliability engineeringdata center hardware experience

Skills & requirements

Required

Hardware Failure AnalysisFirmware AnalysisHardware Specifications ReviewRMA ProcessesHardware DiagnosticsEmerging Technology Evaluation

Preferred

Scripting (python, Bash)Systems Language Proficiency

Stack & domain

PythonBashCC++JavaRustCommunicationProblem-solvingHardware Reliability EngineeringData Center Operations

About the role

Original posting from Xai via Greenhouse

SpaceXAI’s mission is to create AI systems that can accurately understand the universe and aid humanity in its pursuit of knowledge. Our team is small, highly motivated, and focused on engineering excellence. This organization is for individuals who appreciate challenging themselves and thrive on curiosity. We operate with a flat organizational structure. All employees are expected to be hands-on and to contribute directly to the company’s mission. Leadership is given to those who show initiative and consistently deliver excellence. Work ethic and strong prioritization skills are important. All employees are expected to have strong communication skills. They should be able to concisely and accurately share knowledge with their teammates.
ABOUT THE ROLE:
As a Hardware Failure Analysis Engineer, you will serve as an expert in firmware, hardware specifications, vendor relations, and failure analysis. You will proactively identify and resolve hardware issues, manage RMA processes, and stay ahead of emerging hardware technologies to support SpaceXAI's data center operations. This role demands deep technical expertise in hardware diagnostics, and forward-looking hardware evaluation.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Analyze firmware packages and hardware specifications for upcoming releases for compatibility, performance, and reliability in SpaceXAI's data center environment. Run security scanning and CVE / vulnerability analysis on firmware and related components. Flag safety issues (electrical, thermal, power-protection, fail-safe behavior) before the package hits the floor.
Investigate and diagnose hardware failures, including "grey failures" (ambiguous or intermittent issues), proving them as true hardware defects through rigorous testing and data analysis.
Manage vendor relationships, including initiating RMA (Return Merchandise Authorization) claims, negotiating beyond standard processes when necessary, and holding vendors accountable for resolutions.
Collaborate with Data Center Operations Technicians to troubleshoot, repair, and optimize hardware systems in real-time.
Develop and implement monitoring tools, scripts, and processes to detect hardware anomalies early and minimize downtime.
Document failure modes, RCAs, AFR / reliability models, RMA outcomes, and hardware evaluations into a team knowledge base.
Participate in on-call rotations and incident response for hardware-related issues in the Memphis data center
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
Bachelor's degree in Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
2+ years of experience in hardware reliability engineering, preferably in high-performance computing or data center environments.
Proven expertise in firmware analysis, hardware specifications review, and release validation.
Strong experience with RMA processes, including filing claims, vendor negotiations, and pushing for resolutions outside standard protocols.
Demonstrated ability to diagnose and prove complex hardware failures, including grey or intermittent issues, using tools, logic analyzers, or diagnostic software.
Familiarity with data center hardware components (e.g., servers, GPUs, networking equipment) and emerging technologies.
Proficiency in scripting (Python, Bash) for automation and analysis, plus general experience in at least one systems language (C, C++, Java, Rust, or similar). Not required to be expert in all of them.
Excellent problem-solving skills with a data-driven approach to reliability engineering.
Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams, including operations technicians.
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
Experience in AI/ML infrastructure or supercomputing environments.
Knowledge of vendor ecosystems (e.g., NVIDIA, Dell, HP, Supermicro) and supply chain management.
Certifications in hardware engineering or reliability (e.g., CRE, CompTIA Server+).
Prior work in a fast-paced startup or tech company like SpaceXAI.
SpaceXAI is an equal opportunity employer. For details on data processing, view our Recruitment Privacy Notice.

Source: Xai careers (Greenhouse)