Commissioning Chief Engineer, Marauder

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.

Commissioning Chief Engineer, Marauder

Saronic Technologies is a leader in revolutionizing defense autonomy at sea, dedicated to developing state-of-the-art solutions that enhance maritime operations through autonomous and intelligent platforms.

Job Summary:

In this role you will be responsible for the commissioning and operation of the engine room and all associated machinery aboard a novel autonomous vessel. You will ensure that all marine systems — including but not limited to main propulsion, auxiliary machinery, fuel oil, lubrication, cooling, and associated environmental equipment — are properly tested and validated through structured commissioning processes and integrated with the vessel's autonomy and software control systems to support reliable manned, remote, and autonomous operation.

The ideal candidate will possess strong problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities, along with the ability to develop procedures and processes in support of a novel commissioning environment. Have a strong grasp on vessel engineering systems with the ability to work independently on issues, including drafting and refining operational and technical documentation where none previously existed. A steadfast commitment to safety and adherence to maritime regulations is essential for ensuring the highest standards in vessel operations.

Responsibilities

- Lead and support commissioning activities for autonomous vessels, including system testing, validation, and troubleshooting prior to and during operation.

- Collaborate with autonomy and software engineering teams to verify integration between traditional machinery control systems and the vessel's autonomy stack across manned, remote, and autonomous operating modes

- Develop, write, and refine standard operating procedures, checklists, and technical documentation from scratch in the absence of established processes

- Complete all necessary maintenance on vessel machinery.

- Always be on-call while on-hitch to address any issues that arise.

- Manage inventory and ordering of spare parts.

- Assist in the shipboard execution of mission objectives.

- Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously.

- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with team members, stakeholders, and senior management.

- Problem-solving abilities and a proactive approach to addressing challenges.

- Strong leadership skills to lead a team in a dynamic environment and pitch in when your skills are applicable while working across teams.

- Travel to multiple locations while on hitch

Required Qualifications

- Valid U.S. Coast Guard MMC

- National Chief Engineer of Motor, Unlimited Horsepower Endorsement.

- STCW Endorsements of Chief Engineer, OICEW, Basic Training, Advanced Firefighting

- Valid USCG STCW Medical Certificate

- Valid TWIC, USCG STCW Medical Certificate, and Passport.

- Proficiency in maritime engineering systems, particularly electrical systems

- Ability to work both independently and as a part of a group

- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across cross-functional teams

- Pass background check and USCG/DOT drug testing prior to onboarding.

- Security clearance and eligibility required

- Projected 28/28 schedule

Desired Qualifications

- Familiar with jet-drive marine engines

- Experience with autonomous or unmanned systems

- Experience with software engineering

- Experience with automation systems.

Physical Demands

- Ability to certify as “fit for work” by demonstrating ability to swim and tread water

- Frequently and repetitively, lift, push and carry up to 50 lbs.

- Will be exposed to marine environments, including sun, wind, rain, cold, and saltwater spray, often for extended periods

- Must be able to operate in daylight, low-light, and night conditions using marine navigation systems and visual cues

- Ability to perform physically demanding work i.e. stoop, lay, bend, reach, squat, kneel, crouch, twist and crawl for extended periods of time including up to 12 hours/day

- Climb and maintain balance on ladders, platforms, or other high structures

- Ability to stand and walk for up to 10 hours a day, including over varied and uneven terrain

- Climb and maintain balance on ladders, scaffolding or other high structures

- Ability to work in a hot and humid environment and follow safe practices to stay hydrated

- Hearing ability sufficient to detect alarms, verbal instructions, and workplace hazards in a high-noise environment.

- Must be able to work in a shipyard environment, including indoor fabrication shops, onboard vessels under construction, and outdoor areas exposed to changing weather conditions.

- Wear Personal Protective Equipment, including but not limited to: safety glasses, safety shoes, hard hat and adhering to prescribed safety rules and guidelines

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 99% of the premium 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

- 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

- Additional Perks: Free lunch benefit and unlimited free drinks and snacks in the office

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) https://www.govinfo.gov/link/uscode/8/1324b.

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.