Forward Deployed Hardware EngineerSaronic 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 OverviewWe are seeking a versatile Forward Deployed Hardware Engineer to join our technical team. You will have a strong mechanical and electrical 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 cutting-edge mechanical and electrical 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.ResponsibilitiesServe as a multidisciplinary field engineer responsible for mechanical and electrical integration of novel systems and payloads onto our Autonomous Service Vessels (ASVs) and maritime platformsLead rapid prototyping efforts to support field experimentation and platform evolutionPerform system bring-up, integration, and troubleshooting of power, networking, sensors, and compute subsystemsOwn dockside and sea trials - prepare vessels, install new hardware packages, and perform system validation in operationally relevant environmentsDrive design-for-assembly and design-for-deployment feedback into hardware product developmentWork closely with cross-functional teams, including Mechanical, Electrical, Software, and Autonomy Engineers, to evolve and harden system designsInterface with suppliers and fabrication shops to support fast turnarounds of custom components and harnessesContribute to documentation and training to support the scaling of deployment and manufacturingQualificationsBachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field. Master's degree is a plus3+ years of experience working on integrated electromechanical systems, preferably in fielded or mission-critical environmentsHands-on expertise in Mechanical assembly and fabrication (CNC, sheet metal, 3D printing, etc.)Hands-on expertise in Electrical integration (power systems, cabling, connectors, PCB bring-up)Hands-on expertise in rapid prototyping and system-level debuggingComfort working with tools such as CAD (SolidWorks, NX, or similar), basic electrical test equipment (multimeters, oscilloscopes), and field integration setupsExperience working with a Linux-based operating systemUnderstanding of networking protocols and distributed systems, including TCP/IP, UDP, and message-passing frameworksWillingness to work in dynamic, hands-on environments, including on and near the waterStrong sense of ownership and bias for actionYou thrive in real-world environments, responsible for solving open-ended problemsExperience working with autonomous systems, drones, or other robotic platforms is preferredFamiliarity with maritime environments or naval platforms is preferredAbility to write basic software tools (e.g., Python, shell scripts) for hardware bring-up or test automation is preferredExposure to ruggedized or IP-rated hardware design is preferredExperience in systems integration or test engineering is preferredBenefitsComprehensive health insurance plans covering a range of servicesCoverage for routine dental check-ups, orthodontics, and vision careSaronic pays 100% of the premium for employees and 80% for dependentsGenerous PTO and HolidaysPaid maternity and paternity leave to support new parentsIndustry-standard salaries with opportunities for performance-based bonuses401(k) planEquity options to give employees a stake in the company's successBasic life insurance and short- and long-term disability coverageFree lunch benefit and unlimited free drinks and snacks in the officePhysical DemandsProlonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computerOccasional standing and walking within the officeManual dexterity to operate a computer keyboard, mouse, and other office equipmentVisual acuity to read screens, documents, and reportsOccasional reaching, bending, or stooping to access file drawers, cabinets, or office suppliesLifting and carrying items up to 20 pounds occasionally (e.g., office supplies, packages)