Staff Naval Architect – Autonomous Surface Vessels

About the role

We are looking for a Staff Naval Architect to lead the design and analysis of autonomous surface vessels at Saronic Technologies. The role blends traditional naval architecture with cutting‑edge autonomous systems to support defense‑focused maritime innovation.

Key responsibilities

• Design, develop and analyze hull forms, arrangements, structures and mechanical systems for autonomous surface vessels.
• Perform naval architecture calculations including weight estimates, stability (intact and damaged), resistance, propulsion, seakeeping and maneuvering.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary engineers on CAD modeling, preliminary structural and electrical design, and weight management.
• Integrate autonomous navigation and control systems into vessel designs.
• Lead and support model‑scale and at‑sea testing in partnership with engineers and programmers.
• Participate in design reviews, brainstorming sessions and documentation for internal and client presentations.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Naval Architecture, Marine Engineering, Ocean Engineering or a related field.
• 15+ years of engineering experience with deep expertise in large ship construction, commercial or combatant ship design, or high‑speed planing craft.
• Strong fundamentals in ship design, stability, structures, propulsion and hydrodynamics.
• Ability to work on‑site in Austin and conduct physical inspections and testing.

Required skills

• Proficiency with CAD tools such as Rhino, AutoCAD, Nx and ShipConstructor.
• Experience using simulation software like Orca3D, GHS, Star CCM+, Simerics and IHDE.
• Expertise in naval architecture analyses (weight, stability, resistance, seakeeping, maneuvering).