Forward Deployed Build Engineer

About the role

Saronic Technologies develops autonomous and intelligent maritime platforms. It is looking for a Forward Deployed Build Engineer to join its Forward Deployed Engineering team in Austin, Texas. The engineer builds, integrates, validates and deploys prototype hardware that moves the technology from the lab to the fleet, working alongside engineers designing Autonomous Surface Vessels (ASVs). The role sits between the lab, fabrication spaces and the water, with significant travel (typically 50-70%) and long hours during demos and deployments.

Key responsibilities

• Embed in a product pod supporting multiple Forward Deployed Hardware Engineers, rotating between pods as program demand shifts
• Own execution of integration plans: scope, source, build, prove and document prototype mechanical and electrical hardware from drawings, CAD models and engineering sketches
• Fabricate brackets, fixtures, jigs and one-off parts by hand tools, sheet metal and 3D printing; build wiring harnesses and cabling for the marine environment
• Organize and run the lab and shop, keeping tools and inventory in order and training engineers on safe use of the space
• Troubleshoot prototype hardware from lab bring-up through sea trials to on-site deployment, and advise engineering teams on design updates that improve efficiency and serviceability
• Lead hardware and subsystem integration across CONUS and OCONUS locations, validate engineering changes and act as the on-site engineering point of contact during deployment
• Propose maintenance intervals, consumables, spares lists and special tooling, support handoff to Mission Support and train operators and field service representatives
• Write installation, maintenance and troubleshooting procedures, and bring operational and maintenance experience into early design discussions

Required profile

• Associate degree or bachelor's in a technical field, military technical training, trade certification or equivalent hands-on experience
• Hands-on experience building, testing or maintaining integrated electromechanical systems, preferably in fielded or mission-critical environments
• Demonstrated ownership of a build, integration or test effort from scoping to close-out, with a track record of handling ambiguous tasks with limited oversight
• Comfortable taking direction from engineers and leading a task or small effort when needed
• Willingness to work in dynamic, hands-on environments on and near the water and to travel up to 50-70%

Required skills

• Reading engineering drawings, CAD models, wiring diagrams and electrical schematics
• Mechanical assembly and fabrication: hand and power tools, sheet metal, 3D printing, basic machining
• Electrical integration: harness construction, soldering and crimping, connector selection, wire sizing, voltage drop, DC power distribution, grounding and bonding
• Troubleshooting with electrical test equipment such as multimeters and oscilloscopes
• Writing clear data, findings and procedures

What we offer

• Medical, dental and vision insurance, paid by the employer for employees and 80% for dependents
• Paid time off and holidays, plus paid parental leave
• Industry-standard salary with performance-based bonus opportunities
• 401(k) with company match and stock options
• Life and disability insurance, and discounted pet insurance