Mechanical Engineer - Forward Deployed

Saronic Technologies is a leader in revolutionizing autonomy at sea, dedicated to developing state-of-the-art solutions that enhance maritime operations through autonomous and intelligent platforms. Job Overview We are seeking a versatile Forward Deployed Mechanical Engineer to join our technical team. You will have a strong mechanical background and be responsible for bringing our technology from the lab to the fleet. This is not a traditional engineering role. You will be responsible for deploying our systems into the real world, directly supporting maritime missions. You will integrate mechanical payloads, debug complex system-level problems, and iterate hardware designs in the field to ensure success. This is a highly hands-on and field-oriented role with time split between the lab, fabrication spaces, and the waterfront. Responsibilities Design systems to support mechanical integration of novel systems and payloads onto our Autonomous Service Vessels (ASVs) and maritime platforms Lead rapid prototyping efforts (mechanical) to support field experimentation and platform evolution Perform mechanical bring-up, integration, and troubleshooting of structural, sensor-mount, and payload subsystems Own dockside and sea trials — prepare vessels, install new mechanical hardware packages, and perform system validation in operationally relevant environments Drive design-for-assembly and design-for-deployment feedback into mechanical product development Work closely with cross-functional teams, including Electrical, Software, and Autonomy Engineers, to evolve and harden system designs Interface with suppliers and fabrication shops to support fast turnarounds of custom mechanical components Contribute to documentation and training to support the scaling of deployment and manufacturing Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field. Master's degree is a plus 3+ years of experience working on integrated mechanical/electromechanical systems, preferably in fielded or mission-critical environments Hands-on expertise in mechanical assembly and fabrication (CNC, sheet metal, 3D printing, etc.) Hands-on expertise in rapid prototyping and system-level debugging Proficiency with FEA (static, modal/vibration, and shock) to validate designed parts and mounts, and the judgment to know when hand calcs are enough Experience designing electrical enclosures and housings with thermal management and ingress protection (IP67+, sealing, venting, connector selection) Strong understanding of materials and corrosion in marine environments, including dissimilar-metal isolation, coatings, and fastener selection Experience designing sensor and payload mounts for ruggedized environments, including structural brackets, masts, and isolators Comfort working with CAD (SolidWorks, NX, or similar) and field integration setups Experience working with a Linux-based operating system Willingness to work in dynamic, hands-on environments, including on and near the water Strong sense of ownership and bias for action; thrives solving open-ended problems in real-world environments Experience with autonomous systems, drones, or other robotic platforms preferred Familiarity with maritime environments or naval platforms preferred Exposure to ruggedized or IP-rated hardware design preferred Physical Demands Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer Occasional standing and walking within the office Manual dexterity to operate a computer keyboard, mouse, and other office equipment Visual acuity to read screens, documents, and reports Occasional reaching, bending, or stooping to access file drawers, cabinets, or office supplies Lifting and carrying items up to 20 pounds occasionally (e.g., office supplies, packages) Benefits Medical Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance plans covering a range of services Saronic pays 100% of the premium for employees and 80% for dependents Dental and Vision Insurance: Coverage for routine dental check-ups, orthodontics, and vision care Saronic pays 100% of the premium under the basic plan for employees and 80% for dependents Time Off: Generous PTO and Holidays Parental Leave: Paid maternity and paternity leave to support new parents Competitive Salary: Industry-standard salaries with opportunities for performance-based bonuses Retirement Plan: 401(k) plan with company match Stock Options: Equity options to give employees a stake in the company’s success Life and Disability Insurance: Basic life insurance and short- and long-term disability coverage Pet Insurance: Discounted pet insurance options including 24/7 Telehealth helpline Additional Perks: Free lunch benefit and unlimited free drinks and snacks in the office Saronic CCPA Notice for Candidates and California Employees If this role is based in the United States, it requires access to export-controlled information or items that require “U.S. Person” status. As defined by U.S. law, individuals who are any one of the following are considered to be a “U.S. Person”: (1) U.S. citizens, (2) legal permanent residents (a.k.a. green card holders), and (3) certain protected classes of asylees and refugees, as defined in 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3) . Saronic does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, color, religion, age, national origin, marital status, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other reason prohibited by law in provision of employment opportunities and benefits. We are also committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.